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Article
Publication date: 7 September 2012

Yalei Liu, Xiaohui Gu, Yunmeng Lian and Heng Liu

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the theoretical relationship between the layout of four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array tracking system and systematic observation…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the theoretical relationship between the layout of four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array tracking system and systematic observation accuracy, and provide an algorithm to determine the optimal arrangement of four‐sensor acoustic array and an indicator to evaluate acoustic array system measurement accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present paper, the measurement principle of the four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array tracking system is analyzed, and the system observation model and the conversion relationship between models are established. Subsequently, the optimization algorithm for the four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array is deduced, the theoretical optimal arrangement of the four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array tracking measurement system is obtained based on the optimal position dilution of precision function (PDOPF) of 2D target, and the static experimental study on sound‐source bearing estimation is designed. The theoretical results are compared with the experimental results of the present study.

Findings

The measurement accuracy of the four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array tracking system is largely dependent on the layout of the acoustic sensor. Theoretical studies and experimental results demonstrated that an optimal PDPOF can be used to analyze the rationality of the layout. It can also serve as an indicator for the layout of the four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array tracking system.

Originality/value

The PDOPF value is presented as an indicator for the evaluation of the four‐sensor dynamic acoustic array systematic observation accuracy based on theoretical analysis. The feasibility of the indicator and the rationality of the sensor layout in practical engineering application are verified through experimental studies on sound‐source bearing estimation. The higher the PDOPF value is, the lower the accuracy of the system will be.

Article
Publication date: 15 February 2024

Saliq Shamim Shah, Daljeet Singh, Jaswinder Singh Saini and Naveen Garg

This paper aims to study the design and characterization of a 3D printed tetrakaidecahedron cell-based acoustic metamaterial. At present, the mitigation of low-frequency noise…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study the design and characterization of a 3D printed tetrakaidecahedron cell-based acoustic metamaterial. At present, the mitigation of low-frequency noise involves the utilization of spatially demanding materials for the absorption of sound. These materials lack the ability for targeted frequency control adjustments. Hence, there is a requirement for an approach that can effectively manage low-frequency noise using lightweight and durable materials.

Design/methodology/approach

The CAD model was created in SolidWorks and was manufactured using the Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printing technique. Experimental study and numerical simulations examined the metamaterial’s acoustic absorption. An impedance tube with two microphones was used to determine the absorption coefficient of the metamaterial. The simulations were run in a thermoviscous module.

Findings

The testing of acoustic samples highlighted the effects of geometric parameters on acoustic performance. Increment of the strut length by 0.4 mm led to a shift in response to a lower frequency by 500 Hz. Peak absorption rose from 0.461 to 0.690 as the strut diameter was increased from 0.6 to 1.0 mm. Increasing the number of cells from 8 to 20 increased the absorption coefficient and lowered the response frequency.

Originality/value

DLP 3D printing technique was used to successfully manufacture tetrakaidecahedron-based acoustic metamaterial samples. A novel study on the effects of geometric parameters of tetrakaidecahedron cell-based acoustic metamaterial on the acoustic absorption coefficient was conducted, which seemed to be missing in the literature.

Book part
Publication date: 20 January 2022

Giacomo Negro, Balázs Kovács and Glenn R. Carroll

Using a novel measure incorporating stylistic and acoustic data on recorded music from 1967 to 2017, we search for trends in the evolution of musical diversity in 125,340 albums…

Abstract

Using a novel measure incorporating stylistic and acoustic data on recorded music from 1967 to 2017, we search for trends in the evolution of musical diversity in 125,340 albums. We find that temporal patterns of diversity differ for stylistic and acoustic data. We also find that the patterns differ dramatically by genre. Some genres, such as blues, jazz, and pop-rock, decrease in diversity over time; most other genres increase in diversity. The causes of these different trends present a puzzle for future research. We also find different patterns for recordings that made the Billboard 200 charts compared to all recordings, suggesting an association between selection processes driven by consumer popularity and diversity. Moreover, associations of diversity and industry structure found in prior research do not hold when we analyze data beyond the smaller sample of the more popular recordings found in Billboard. These findings have implications for many prior studies based exclusively on best-selling recordings

Details

The Generation, Recognition and Legitimation of Novelty
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-80117-998-0

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 October 2023

Omotayo Farai, Nicole Metje, Carl Anthony, Ali Sadeghioon and David Chapman

Wireless sensor networks (WSN), as a solution for buried water pipe monitoring, face a new set of challenges compared to traditional application for above-ground infrastructure…

Abstract

Purpose

Wireless sensor networks (WSN), as a solution for buried water pipe monitoring, face a new set of challenges compared to traditional application for above-ground infrastructure monitoring. One of the main challenges for underground WSN deployment is the limited range (less than 3 m) at which reliable wireless underground communication can be achieved using radio signal propagation through the soil. To overcome this challenge, the purpose of this paper is to investigate a new approach for wireless underground communication using acoustic signal propagation along a buried water pipe.

Design/methodology/approach

An acoustic communication system was developed based on the requirements of low cost (tens of pounds at most), low power supply capacity (in the order of 1 W-h) and miniature (centimetre scale) size for a wireless communication node. The developed system was further tested along a buried steel pipe in poorly graded SAND and a buried medium density polyethylene (MDPE) pipe in well graded SAND.

Findings

With predicted acoustic attenuation of 1.3 dB/m and 2.1 dB/m along the buried steel and MDPE pipes, respectively, reliable acoustic communication is possible up to 17 m for the buried steel pipe and 11 m for the buried MDPE pipe.

Research limitations/implications

Although an important first step, more research is needed to validate the acoustic communication system along a wider water distribution pipe network.

Originality/value

This paper shows the possibility of achieving reliable wireless underground communication along a buried water pipe (especially non-metallic material ones) using low-frequency acoustic propagation along the pipe wall.

Details

International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, vol. 20 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1742-7371

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 August 2023

Naif Adel Haddad

The general attitude of the ancient theatre conservation strategies and policies is still concerned primarily with their architectural physical appearance without considering…

Abstract

Purpose

The general attitude of the ancient theatre conservation strategies and policies is still concerned primarily with their architectural physical appearance without considering their authentic scientific acoustical qualities. The paper attempts to illustrate and discuss how to enhance their acoustic heritage to arouse the audience's interest and needs. Thus, supporting their reconstruction based on recent acoustical research and community needs-related concerns and opportunities for ancient theatre's modern use.

Design/methodology/approach

It is based on reviewing the main issues related to reconstruction in the international charters and conventions and how to infuse ancient theatres with their full role. It discusses the dilemma and debates regarding the theatre stage wall, colonnade (portico) restoration and anastylosis. Is it sufficient enough to recover the theatre sound volume? Or to rethink for full physical reconstructions of these missing related acoustical theatre architectural elements to their original level and layout as in ancient times in parallel to their virtual reconstruction?

Findings

The cultural significance of the authentic theatre's acoustical qualities needs to reform the conservation strategies and policies for a more flexible and resilient approach. It should be postulated, re-examined and advocated parallel to their 3D virtual reconstruction in the related international charters and conventions.

Practical implications

The paper's implications are not immediate; it is far-reaching. It suggests the importance of acoustics in analysing historic theatre performance venues and reforming conservation strategies and approaches. This issue is especially critical for architects, conservators, the heritage community and the public audience.

Originality/value

Recommendations are made for potential bold reconstruction actions that may be taken to achieve further sustainability, comfort, and permeability in modern theatre-use performances. Their physical reconstruction for improving the performance of contemporary theatre use regarding retaining the acoustic cultural significance should be more flexible and resilient in the charters.

Details

Journal of Cultural Heritage Management and Sustainable Development, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-1266

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 November 2022

Megan Burfoot, Ali GhaffarianHoseini, Amirhosein Ghaffarianhoseini and Nicola Naismith

To maximise acoustic comfort in a classroom, the acoustic conditions of the space should be variable. So, the optimal acoustic state also changes when the classroom changes from a…

Abstract

Purpose

To maximise acoustic comfort in a classroom, the acoustic conditions of the space should be variable. So, the optimal acoustic state also changes when the classroom changes from a study environment into a lecture environment. Passive Variable Acoustic Technology (PVAT) alters a room’s Reverberation Time (RT) by changing the total sound absorption in a room. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the improvements to classroom acoustic comfort when using PVAT.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is conducted in an existing tertiary classroom at Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand. The PVAT is prototyped, and the RTs are measured according to international standards before and after classroom installation. The acoustic measurement method used is a cost-effective application tool where pre- and post-conditions are of primary concern.

Findings

PVAT is found to offer statistically significant improvements in RT, but the key benefits are realised in its’ ability to vary RT for different classroom situations. It is predicted that the RT recommendations for two room types outlined in the acoustic standard AS/NZS 2107:2016 are satisfied when using PVAT in a single classroom space. By optimising RT, the acoustic comfort during both study and lecture is significantly improved.

Originality/value

When PVAT is combined with an intelligent system – Intelligent Passive Room Acoustic Technology (IPRAT) – it can detect sound waves in real time to identify the optimal RT. This paper details a pilot case study that works towards quantifying the benefits of IPRAT, by prototyping and testing the PVAT component of the system.

Highlights

  1. A pilot case study outlines the development and test of a variable acoustic prototype in a tertiary classroom

  2. A method is adopted to measure acoustic conditions, using three under-researched Android applications

  3. The benefits of PVAT are realised in its ability to vary RT by adjusting the prototypes’ sound absorption

  4. By using PVAT in a single space, the recommended RTs for two room types outlined in the acoustic standard AS/NZS 2107:2016 can be satisfied

  5. The improvements in acoustic comfort due to PVAT are statistically significant

A pilot case study outlines the development and test of a variable acoustic prototype in a tertiary classroom

A method is adopted to measure acoustic conditions, using three under-researched Android applications

The benefits of PVAT are realised in its ability to vary RT by adjusting the prototypes’ sound absorption

By using PVAT in a single space, the recommended RTs for two room types outlined in the acoustic standard AS/NZS 2107:2016 can be satisfied

The improvements in acoustic comfort due to PVAT are statistically significant

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 14 March 2023

Visar Hoxha and Fuat Pallaska

The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of thermal, acoustic and HVAC upgrades on the perception of the quality of life among residential building occupants.

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this research is to investigate the impact of thermal, acoustic and HVAC upgrades on the perception of the quality of life among residential building occupants.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study used a quantitative research approach, utilizing a questionnaire as the research instrument. A survey was conducted with 1,119 residential apartment building occupants in Prishtina, Kosovo, using a stratified random sampling method for selection of participants.

Findings

The present study used quantitative research with a questionnaire as the research instrument. The survey was conducted with 1,119 residential apartment building occupants in Prishtina, Kosovo, using stratified random sampling. The study found that thermal retrofits, acoustic retrofits and HVAC upgrades as a whole model affect the perception of the quality of life of residential building occupants in Prishtina, Kosovo. However, the study found that not all dimensions of the constructed research model (thermal, acoustic and HVAC) affect the perception of the quality of life of residential building occupants. Specifically, thermal retrofitting seems to strongly influence the perception of quality of life, while HVAC upgrades do not seem to have an impact on the quality of life of occupants. Finally, acoustic retrofits also influence the perception of the quality of life, although not to the same degree as thermal retrofitting.

Research limitations/implications

The present study contributes to understanding the role that thermal retrofits, acoustic retrofits and HVAC upgrades play in the perception of quality of life by building occupants in an understudied region with a booming real estate sector such as Kosovo. The study also highlights the need for further analysis to understand why HVAC upgrades do not seem to influence the perception of quality of life by residential building occupants in Kosovo.

Originality/value

The present study is the first to quantify the impact of thermal, acoustic and HVAC upgrades on the perception of the quality of life of residential building occupants in Prishtina, Kosovo.

Details

International Journal of Building Pathology and Adaptation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4708

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2022

Megan Burfoot, Nicola Naismith, Ali GhaffarianHoseini and Amirhosein Ghaffarianhoseini

Informed by acoustic design standards, the built environments are designed with single reverberation times (RTs), a trade-off between long and short RTs needed for different space…

Abstract

Purpose

Informed by acoustic design standards, the built environments are designed with single reverberation times (RTs), a trade-off between long and short RTs needed for different space functions. The novel intelligent passive room acoustic technology (IPRAT) has the potential to revolutionise room acoustics, thus, it is imperative to analyse and quantify its effect. IPRAT achieves real-time room acoustic improvement by integrating passive variable acoustic technology (PVAT) and acoustic scene classification (ASC). This paper aims to compare IPRAT simulation results with the AS/NZS 2107:2016 Australian/New Zealand recommended design acoustic standards.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper 20 classroom environments are virtually configured for the simulation, multiplying 5 classrooms with 4 aural situations typical to New Zealand classrooms. The acoustic parameters RT, sound clarity (C50) and sound strength (G) are considered and analysed in the simulation. These parameters can be used to determine the effects of improved acoustics for both teacher vocal relief and student comprehension. The IPRAT was assumed to vary RT and was represented in the simulation by six different absorption coefficient spectrums.

Findings

The optimised acoustic parameters were derived from relationships between C50, RT and G. These relationships and optimal RTs contribute a unique database to literature. IPRAT’s advantages were discerned from a comparison of “current,” “attainable” and “optimised” acoustic parameters.

Originality/value

By quantifying the effect of IPRAT, it is understood that IPRAT has the potential to satisfy the key recommendations of professional industry standards (for New Zealand namely; AS/NZS 2107:2016 recommended design acoustic standards).

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. 12 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 January 2018

Izhar and Farid Ullah Khan

The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel electromagnetic-based acoustic energy harvester (EH) for the application of wireless autonomous sensors.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel electromagnetic-based acoustic energy harvester (EH) for the application of wireless autonomous sensors.

Design/methodology/approach

The developed acoustic EH comprises a Helmholtz resonator (HR), a suspension system that consists of a flexible membrane and a permanent magnet, a couple of coils and a coil holder. Furthermore, the HR, used in the harvester, is designed for a specific resonant frequency based on simulation carried out in COMSOL Multiphysics®.

Findings

The developed harvester is tested both in lab under harmonic sound pressure levels (SPLs) and in real environment under random SPLs. In lab, when exposed to 100 dB SPL, the harvester generated a peak power of 212 µW. Furthermore, in real environment in vicinity of electric generator, the harvester produced an output voltage of about 110 mV collectively from its both coils.

Originality/value

In this paper, a novel geometric configuration for electromagnetic-based acoustic EH is proposed. In the developed harvester, two coils are placed in it to achieve enhanced electrical output from it for the first time.

Details

Sensor Review, vol. 38 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0260-2288

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 8 February 2022

Gabriela Santiago and Jose Aguilar

The Reflective Middleware for Acoustic Management (ReM-AM), based on the Middleware for Cloud Learning Environments (AmICL), aims to improve the interaction between users and…

Abstract

Purpose

The Reflective Middleware for Acoustic Management (ReM-AM), based on the Middleware for Cloud Learning Environments (AmICL), aims to improve the interaction between users and agents in a Smart Environment (SE) using acoustic services, in order to consider the unpredictable situations due to the sounds and vibrations. The middleware allows observing, analyzing, modifying and interacting in every state of a SE from the acoustics. This work details an extension of the ReM-AM using the ontology-driven architecture (ODA) paradigm for acoustic management.

Design/methodology/approach

This work details an extension of the ReM-AM using the ontology-driven architecture (ODA) paradigm for acoustic management. In this paper are defined the different domains of knowledge required for the management of the sounds in SEs, which are modeled using ontologies.

Findings

This work proposes an acoustics and sound ontology, a service-oriented architecture (SOA) ontology, and a data analytics and autonomic computing ontology, which work together. Finally, the paper presents three case studies in the context of smart workplace (SWP), ambient-assisted living (AAL) and Smart Cities (SC).

Research limitations/implications

Future works will be based on the development of algorithms for classification and analysis of sound events, to help with emotion recognition not only from speech but also from random and separate sound events. Also, other works will be about the definition of the implementation requirements, and the definition of the real context modeling requirements to develop a real prototype.

Practical implications

In the case studies is possible to observe the flexibility that the ReM-AM middleware based on the ODA paradigm has by being aware of different contexts and acquire information of each, using this information to adapt itself to the environment and improve it using the autonomic cycles. To achieve this, the middleware integrates the classes and relations in its ontologies naturally in the autonomic cycles.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this work is the description of the ontologies required for future works about acoustic management in SE, considering that what has been studied by other works is the utilization of ontologies for sound event recognition but not have been expanded like knowledge source in an SE middleware. Specifically, this paper presents the theoretical framework of this work composed of the AmICL middleware, ReM-AM middleware and the ODA paradigm.

Details

Applied Computing and Informatics, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2634-1964

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000