Acoustics

16 pages, 8603 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acoustic Noise Characterization of a Switched Reluctance Motor Using Sound Power and Psychoacoustic Metric Measurements

by Moien Masoumi and Berker Bilgin

Acoustics 2025, 7(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7030041 - 27 Jun 2025

This paper presents an experimental acoustic noise characterization of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) designed for a wind turbine pitch angle control application. It details the fixture design for holding and positioning the sound intensity probes, along with the essential hardware setup for [...] Read more.

This paper presents an experimental acoustic noise characterization of a switched reluctance motor (SRM) designed for a wind turbine pitch angle control application. It details the fixture design for holding and positioning the sound intensity probes, along with the essential hardware setup for conducting acoustic noise experiments. Additionally, the software configuration is described to ensure compliance with specific measurement requirements. To study the effect of speed and load variations on the motor’s acoustic noise characteristics, tests are conducted at various operating points. The tests employ pulse-width modulation (PWM) current control, operating at a switching frequency of 12.5 kHz. Sound pressure and sound intensity are measured across different operating conditions to determine the sound power and psychoacoustic metrics. Furthermore, the effect of different factors on the motor’s sound power level, as well as on psychoacoustic metrics such as sharpness, loudness, and roughness, is analyzed and discussed. Full article

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11 pages, 1497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Investigation of Bulk Elastic Wave Propagation in the Volume of Metamaterials

by Aleksandr Korobov, Natalia Shirgina, Aleksey Kokshaiskii, Natalia Odina and Aleksandr Volodarskii

Acoustics 2025, 7(3), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7030040 - 26 Jun 2025

Abstract

This paper presents the results of experimental studies on the propagation of longitudinal and transverse ultrasonic waves through a metamaterial—a composite material based on polymer matrix with periodically arranged cylindrical elements. Such structures are known as phononic crystals. Amplitude–frequency characteristics were measured for [...] Read more.

This paper presents the results of experimental studies on the propagation of longitudinal and transverse ultrasonic waves through a metamaterial—a composite material based on polymer matrix with periodically arranged cylindrical elements. Such structures are known as phononic crystals. Amplitude–frequency characteristics were measured for phononic crystals with air and metal cylindrical elements, for both longitudinal waves (in the frequency range from 1.5 to 3 MHz) and transverse waves (in the range from 0.2 to 1.2 MHz). A twofold decrease in the amplitude of the transmitted longitudinal ultrasonic wave was experimentally demonstrated in the passband centered at 1.87 MHz during rotation of the phononic crystal. It was also found that the polarization angle of the transverse ultrasonic wave influences the localization of band gaps and passbands. Band gaps, characterized by amplitude minima near 240 kHz, 290 kHz, and 830 kHz and observed for waves polarized parallel to the crystal axis, are replaced by passbands when the wave is polarized perpendicularly. These results suggest the potential for developing analog ultrasonic frequency filters tunable by the angle of rotation. Full article

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20 pages, 3108 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy-Efficient MAC Protocol for Underwater Sensor Networks Using CSMA/CA, TDMA, and Actor–Critic Reinforcement Learning (AC-RL) Fusion

by Wazir Ur Rahman, Qiao Gang, Feng Zhou, Muhammad Tahir, Wasiq Ali, Muhammad Adil, Sun Zong Xin and Muhammad Ilyas Khattak

Acoustics 2025, 7(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7030039 - 25 Jun 2025

Abstract

Due to the dynamic and harsh underwater environment, which involves a long propagation delay, high bit error rate, and limited bandwidth, it is challenging to achieve reliable communication in underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) and network support applications, like environmental monitoring and natural [...] Read more.

Due to the dynamic and harsh underwater environment, which involves a long propagation delay, high bit error rate, and limited bandwidth, it is challenging to achieve reliable communication in underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) and network support applications, like environmental monitoring and natural disaster prediction, which require energy efficiency and low latency. To tackle these challenges, we introduce AC-RL-based power control (ACRLPC), a novel hybrid MAC protocol that can efficiently integrate Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance (CSMA/CA)-based MAC and Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA) with Actor–Critic Reinforcement Learning (AC-RL). The proposed framework employs adaptive strategies, utilizing adaptive power control and intelligent access methods, which adjust to fluctuating conditions on the network. Harsh and dynamic underwater environment performance evaluations of the proposed scheme confirm a significant outperformance of ACRLPC compared to the current protocols of FDU-MAC, TCH-MAC, and UW-ALOHA-QM in all major performance measures, like energy consumption, throughput, accuracy, latency, and computational complexity. The ACRLPC is an ultra-energy-efficient protocol since it provides higher-grade power efficiency by maximizing the throughput and limiting the latency. Its overcoming of computational complexity makes it an approach that greatly relaxes the processing requirement, especially in the case of large, scalable underwater deployments. The unique hybrid architecture that is proposed effectively combines the best of both worlds, leveraging TDMA for reliable access, and the flexibility of CSMA/CA serves as a robust and holistic mechanism that meets the desired enablers of the system. Full article

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25 pages, 5011 KiB

Open AccessReview

Mapping Soundscape Research: Authors, Institutions, and Collaboration Networks

by Andy W. L. Chung and Wai Ming To

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020038 - 19 Jun 2025

Abstract

Soundscape is the sonic environment that a living being, like a human or animal, experiences in a certain setting. It affects how a space functions and how the being perceives its quality. Consequently, the soundscape is crucial in ecosystems globally. In recent decades, [...] Read more.

Soundscape is the sonic environment that a living being, like a human or animal, experiences in a certain setting. It affects how a space functions and how the being perceives its quality. Consequently, the soundscape is crucial in ecosystems globally. In recent decades, researchers have explored soundscapes using various methodologies across different disciplines. This study aims to provide a brief overview of the soundscape research history, pinpoint key authors, institutions, and collaboration networks, and identify trends and main themes through a bibliometric analysis. A search in the Scopus database on 26 February 2025 found 5825 articles, reviews, and conference papers on soundscape published from 1985 to 2024. The analysis indicated a significant increase in soundscape publications, rising from 1 in 1985 to 19 in 2002, and reaching 586 in 2024. J. Kang was the most prolific author with 265 publications, while University College London emerged as the most productive institution. Co-citation analysis revealed three research groups: one focused on urban soundscapes, another on aquatic soundscapes, and a third on soundscapes in landscape ecology. The keyword co-occurrence analysis identified three themes: “soundscape(s), acoustic environment, and urban planning”, “noise, animal(s), bioacoustics, biodiversity, passive acoustic monitoring, fish, and bird(s)”, and “human(s), sound, perception, and physiology”. Full article

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17 pages, 988 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Low-Complexity Versatile Beamforming Method for Multiple Parametric Arrays

by Haokang Shi, Jie Shi, Bo Fan and Haoyang Zhang

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020037 - 18 Jun 2025

Abstract

The application of multiple parametric arays (MPAs) has been increasingly prominent in recent years due to the high directivity of parametric arrays. However, existing beamforming methods for MPAs are limited to special scenarios, such as narrow-edged beamforming, or have high complexity, such as [...] Read more.

The application of multiple parametric arays (MPAs) has been increasingly prominent in recent years due to the high directivity of parametric arrays. However, existing beamforming methods for MPAs are limited to special scenarios, such as narrow-edged beamforming, or have high complexity, such as requiring numerous acoustic transfer function (ATF) identifications. This paper proposes a low-complexity versatile beamforming method based on the transitive relationship among ATFs. For N parametric arrays, the number of identified ATFs can be reduced from N² to N through interpolation and flipping. Moreover, by neglecting the less affected part in the acoustic field structure, the number of identified ATFs can be reduced to less than N. On the basis of ATF matrix estimated, the desired acoustic field can be generated by optimizing the emission weight coefficient. The accuracy of ATF estimation is verified through the precise reconstruction of the acoustic field. Even when the number of identified ATFs does not exceed N, the desired acoustic field of different types of beam patterns can be formed correctly. The beamforming effects of MPAs confirm the low-complexity and versatility of the proposed method, offering a highly feasible solution for acoustic field control. Full article

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16 pages, 4737 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Horn Use Patterns and Acoustic Characteristics in Congested Urban Traffic: A Case Study of Ho Chi Minh City

by Thulan Nguyen, Yuya Nishimura and Sohei Nishimura

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020036 - 16 Jun 2025

Abstract

Motorcycle horns are a dominant source of urban noise in many Southeast Asian cities, driven by high two-wheeler density and limited public transport infrastructure. Although automobiles have been in use for over a century, regulations governing horn design and volume control remain inadequate. [...] Read more.

Motorcycle horns are a dominant source of urban noise in many Southeast Asian cities, driven by high two-wheeler density and limited public transport infrastructure. Although automobiles have been in use for over a century, regulations governing horn design and volume control remain inadequate. This study investigates horn use behavior in Vietnamese urban traffic, identifying distinct acoustic patterns categorized as “attention” and “warning” signals. Measurements conducted in an anechoic chamber reveal that these patterns can increase sound pressure levels by up to 17 dB compared to standard horn use, with notable differences in frequency components. These levels often exceed the daytime noise thresholds recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO), indicating potential risks for adverse health outcomes, such as elevated stress, hearing damage, sleep disturbance, and cardiovascular effects. The findings are contextualized within broader efforts to manage traffic noise in rapidly developing urban areas. Drawing parallels with studies on aircraft noise exposure in Japan, this study suggests that long-term exposure, rather than peak noise levels alone, plays a critical role in shaping community sensitivity. The study results support the need for updated noise regulations that address both the acoustic and perceptual dimensions of road traffic noise. Full article

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18 pages, 3915 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Image Entropy Recurrence Map-Based Screening Method for Ultrasound B-Scan Image Segments Containing Defects

by Peiqiang Chen, Qunli Lishen, Bin Tang and Chenlong Yang

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020035 - 11 Jun 2025

Abstract

In recent years, defect detection based on ultrasound B-scan images has been widely utilized in industry to detect the quality and presence of defects in products. However, there are still some difficulties in the process of processing B-scan images, such as sampling noise, [...] Read more.

In recent years, defect detection based on ultrasound B-scan images has been widely utilized in industry to detect the quality and presence of defects in products. However, there are still some difficulties in the process of processing B-scan images, such as sampling noise, the large amount of data, and so on. In this paper, we analyze the acoustic characteristics of an ultrasound B-scan image time series, design an image preprocessing method to make the image information gray-scale lossless, and propose a screening method for ultrasound B-scan image segments containing defects based on the theory of image entropy and a recurrence diagram. Comparison experiments between this method and the traditional image entropy screening algorithm show that this method can solve the above difficulties to a certain extent and has its own superiority. The method proposed in this paper provides a new idea for processing ultrasound B-scan image sequences and presents a new choice when the traditional method is limited. Full article

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18 pages, 13439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Investigation into the Active Narrowband Reshaping of a Ship Model’s Acoustic Signature

by Steffen Ungnad, Delf Sachau, Carsten Zerbs, Andreas Müller and Anton Homm

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020034 - 7 Jun 2025

Abstract

The use of inertial actuators to control the radiated sound pressure of a steel ship model at a lake measurement facility is examined. Therefore, methods of active vibration control as well as active control of target sound fields are applied using a fixed [...] Read more.

The use of inertial actuators to control the radiated sound pressure of a steel ship model at a lake measurement facility is examined. Therefore, methods of active vibration control as well as active control of target sound fields are applied using a fixed configuration of twelve accelerometers, eight control actuators, and five hydrophones. A narrowband feedforward active control system is used to manipulate the sound pressure at hydrophone positions, focusing not only on reducing but also on adding spectral lines in the radiated signature. The performance is assessed using measured data by additional accelerometers inside the ship model as well as by hydrophones surrounding the measurement facility. It is found that less control effort is necessary for the generation of additional tones compared to the control of a present disturbance at hydrophones. In the frequency range considered (below 500 Hz), the actively induced change in the mean structural velocity is not necessarily proportional to the change in the radiated sound pressure. In contrast to the vibration velocity, no unwanted amplification of the sound pressure is found for the frequencies observed. Full article

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28 pages, 13595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Open-Set Recognition of Environmental Sound Based on KDE-GAN and Attractor–Reciprocal Point Learning

by Jiakuan Wu, Nan Wang, Huajie Hong, Wei Wang, Kunsheng Xing and Yujie Jiang

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020033 - 28 May 2025

Abstract

While open-set recognition algorithms have been extensively explored in computer vision, their application to environmental sound analysis remains understudied. To address this gap, this study investigates how to effectively recognize unknown sound categories in real-world environments by proposing a novel Kernel Density Estimation-based [...] Read more.

While open-set recognition algorithms have been extensively explored in computer vision, their application to environmental sound analysis remains understudied. To address this gap, this study investigates how to effectively recognize unknown sound categories in real-world environments by proposing a novel Kernel Density Estimation-based Generative Adversarial Network (KDE-GAN) for data augmentation combined with Attractor–Reciprocal Point Learning for open-set classification. Specifically, our approach addresses three key challenges: (1) How to generate boundary-aware synthetic samples for robust open-set training: A closed-set classifier’s pre-logit layer outputs are fed into the KDE-GAN, which synthesizes samples mapped to the logit layer using the classifier’s original weights. Kernel Density Estimation then enforces Density Loss and Offset Loss to ensure these samples align with class boundaries. (2) How to optimize feature space organization: The closed-set classifier is constrained by an Attractor–Reciprocal Point joint loss, maintaining intra-class compactness while pushing unknown samples toward low-density regions. (3) How to evaluate performance in highly open scenarios: We validate the method using UrbanSound8K, AudioEventDataset, and TUT Acoustic Scenes 2017 as closed sets, with ESC-50 categories as open-set samples, achieving AUROC/OSCR scores of 0.9251/0.8743, 0.7921/0.7135, and 0.8209/0.6262, respectively. The findings demonstrate the potential of this framework to enhance environmental sound monitoring systems, particularly in applications requiring adaptability to unseen acoustic events (e.g., urban noise surveillance or wildlife monitoring). Full article

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14 pages, 5518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental and Theoretical Acoustic Performance of Esparto Grass Fibers

by Rubén Maderuelo-Sanz and Juan Miguel Meneses-Rodríguez

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020032 - 25 May 2025

Abstract

Nowadays, natural fiber-based materials are widely used in the building sector, where the use of green and sustainable products is of growing interest. One of these fibrous materials is the esparto, a plant belonging to the Gramineae family, with a height up to [...] Read more.

Nowadays, natural fiber-based materials are widely used in the building sector, where the use of green and sustainable products is of growing interest. One of these fibrous materials is the esparto, a plant belonging to the Gramineae family, with a height up to 1 m. It grows in arid places with scarce rainfall, being common in some areas of the Iberian Peninsula. Due to its morphology, it can be used to replace conventional materials used in soundproofing and building applications. In this work, the acoustic properties of esparto fibers are studied using impedance tube measurements and via a phenomenological acoustic model where the input parameters are some non-acoustic properties such as porosity, density, tortuosity, and flow resistivity. The experimental results obtained showed the good acoustic performance of esparto fibers, with a high sound absorption coefficient along the usual frequency bandwidth. Furthermore, the theoretical results obtained using the phenomenological model exhibited a strong correlation with the sound absorption spectra obtained through experimental measurements. Full article

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20 pages, 3567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Methodology for Testing Acoustic Absorption of Lightweight Fabrics with 3D Microstructures Using Impedance Tube

by David Caballol, Mónica Morales-Segura and Alejandro Morgado

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020031 - 23 May 2025

Abstract

In this study, the limits of using the impedance tube, or Kundt tube, are examined using the two-microphone method to obtain the normal acoustic absorption coefficient when analyzing the sound absorption properties of lightweight acoustic fabrics. Lightweight porous fabrics with 3D microstructures that [...] Read more.

In this study, the limits of using the impedance tube, or Kundt tube, are examined using the two-microphone method to obtain the normal acoustic absorption coefficient when analyzing the sound absorption properties of lightweight acoustic fabrics. Lightweight porous fabrics with 3D microstructures that have been previously evaluated in reverberation chambers are used. For these materials, a test methodology will be developed in the impedance tube that aims to replicate the conditions of the tests carried out in the reverberation chamber. The samples are tested maintaining the same separation from the final rigid wall and are placed in the impedance tube in two different ways: first, exposing the flat samples to the wave, and second, in pleated format. The results show that it is not possible to consider the results obtained with both methodologies in samples of light textiles with three-dimensional microstructures to be the same. The similarity is limited to low frequencies (100–315 Hz) but bias, excessive dispersion of the data, different global results and shape indicators obtained suggest that both methods are not identical. Full article

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12 pages, 1391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Speech Intelligibility in Virtual Avatars: Comparison Between Audio and Audio–Visual-Driven Facial Animation

by Federico Cioffi, Massimiliano Masullo, Aniello Pascale and Luigi Maffei

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020030 - 23 May 2025

Abstract

Speech intelligibility (SI) is critical in effective communication across various settings, although it is often compromised by adverse acoustic conditions. In noisy environments, visual cues such as lip movements and facial expressions, when congruent with auditory information, can significantly enhance speech perception and [...] Read more.

Speech intelligibility (SI) is critical in effective communication across various settings, although it is often compromised by adverse acoustic conditions. In noisy environments, visual cues such as lip movements and facial expressions, when congruent with auditory information, can significantly enhance speech perception and reduce cognitive effort. In an ever-growing diffusion of virtual environments, communicating through virtual avatars is becoming increasingly prevalent, thus requiring a comprehensive understanding of these dynamics to ensure effective interactions. The present study used Unreal Engine’s MetaHuman technology to compare four methodologies used to create facial animation: MetaHuman Animator (MHA), MetaHuman LiveLink (MHLL), Audio-Driven MetaHuman (ADMH), and Synthetized Audio-Driven MetaHuman (SADMH). Thirty-six word pairs from the Diagnostic Rhyme Test (DRT) were used as input stimuli to create the animations and to compare them in terms of intelligibility. Moreover, to simulate a challenging background noise, the animations were mixed with a babble noise at a signal-to-noise ratio of −13 dB (A). Participants assessed a total of 144 facial animations. Results showed the ADMH condition to be the most intelligible among the methodologies used, probably due to enhanced clarity and consistency in the generated facial animations, while eliminating distractions like micro-expressions and natural variations in human articulation. Full article

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23 pages, 26403 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sonic Boom Impact Assessment of European SST Concept for Milan to New York Supersonic Flight

by Giovanni Fasulo, Antimo Glorioso, Francesco Petrosino, Mattia Barbarino and Luigi Federico

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020029 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

This study presents a surrogate modeling framework designed for the rapid yet reliable assessment of sonic boom impacts. The methodology is demonstrated through two case studies: a transatlantic flight from Milan to New York, highlighting the sonic boom impact along the route; and [...] Read more.

This study presents a surrogate modeling framework designed for the rapid yet reliable assessment of sonic boom impacts. The methodology is demonstrated through two case studies: a transatlantic flight from Milan to New York, highlighting the sonic boom impact along the route; and a representative supersonic overflight of Italy, quantifying the population exposure to varying noise levels. Aerodynamic numerical simulations were carried out using an open-source code to capture near-field pressure signatures at three critical mission points. These signatures were used to compute the Whitham F-functions, which were then propagated through a homogeneous atmosphere to the ground using the Whitham equal area rule. The resulting N-waves enabled the computation of aircraft shape factors, which were employed in a regression model to predict the sonic boom characteristics across the full mission profile. Finally, the integration of noise metrics and geographical information system software provided the evaluation of environmental impact and population noise exposure. Full article

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18 pages, 5529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Interactive Soundscape Mapping for 18th-Century Naples: A Historically Informed Approach

by Hasan Baran Firat, Massimiliano Masullo and Luigi Maffei

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020028 - 15 May 2025

Abstract

This paper explores the application of a specialized end-to-end framework, crafted to study historical soundscapes, with a specific focus on 18th-century Naples. The framework combines historical research, natural language processing, architectural acoustics, and virtual acoustic modelling to achieve historically accurate and physically based [...] Read more.

This paper explores the application of a specialized end-to-end framework, crafted to study historical soundscapes, with a specific focus on 18th-century Naples. The framework combines historical research, natural language processing, architectural acoustics, and virtual acoustic modelling to achieve historically accurate and physically based soundscape reconstructions. Central to this study is the development of a Historically Informed Soundscape (HIS) map, which concentrates on the urban spaces of Largo di Palazzo and Via Toledo in Naples. Using virtual and audio-augmented reality, the HIS map provides 3D spatialized audio, offering an immersive experience of the acoustic environment of 18th-century Naples. This interdisciplinary approach not only contributes to the field of sound studies but also represents a significant methodological innovation in the analysis and interpretation of historical urban soundscapes. By incorporating historical maps as interactive graphical user interfaces, the project fosters a dynamic, multisensory engagement with the past, offering a valuable tool for scholars, educators, and the public to explore and understand historical sensory environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Past Has Ears: Archaeoacoustics and Acoustic Heritage)

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28 pages, 19935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Violin Back Arch Height Variations on Auditory Perception

by Luca Jost, Mehmet Ercan Altinsoy and Hannes Vereecke

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020027 - 14 May 2025

Abstract

One of the quintessential goals of musical instrument acoustics is to improve the perceived sound produced by, e.g., a violin. To achieve this, the connections between physical (mechanical and geometrical) properties and perceived sound output need to be understood. In this article, a [...] Read more.

One of the quintessential goals of musical instrument acoustics is to improve the perceived sound produced by, e.g., a violin. To achieve this, the connections between physical (mechanical and geometrical) properties and perceived sound output need to be understood. In this article, a single facet of this complex problem will be discussed using experimental results obtained for six violins of varying back arch height. This is the first investigation of its kind to focus on back arch height. It may serve to inform instrument makers and researchers alike about the variation in sound that can be achieved by varying this parameter. The test instruments were constructed using state-of-the-art methodology to best represent the theoretical case of changing back arch height on a single instrument. Three values of back arch height (

12.1

,

14.8

and

17.5

mm) were investigated. The subsequent perceptual tests consisted of a free sorting task in the playing situation and three two-alternative forced choice listening tests. The descriptors “round” and “warm” were found to be linked to back arch height. The trend was non-linear, meaning that both low- and high-arch height instruments were rated as possessing more of these descriptors than their medium-arch height counterparts. Additional results were obtained using stimuli created by hybrid synthesis. However, these could not be linked to those using real playing or recordings. The results of this study serve to inform violin makers about the relative importance of back arch height and its specific influence on sound output. The discussion of the applied methodology and interpretation of results may serve to inform researchers about important new directions in the field of musical instrument acoustics. Full article

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11 pages, 2591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clarification of the Acoustic Characteristics of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency by Acoustic Simulation Using the Boundary Element Method: A Pilot Study

by Mami Shiraishi, Katsuaki Mishima, Masahiro Takekawa, Masaaki Mori and Hirotsugu Umeda

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020026 - 13 May 2025

Abstract

A model of the vocal tract that mimicked velopharyngeal insufficiency was created, and acoustic analysis was performed using the boundary element method to clarify the acoustic characteristics of velopharyngeal insufficiency. The participants were six healthy adults. Computed tomography (CT) images were taken from [...] Read more.

A model of the vocal tract that mimicked velopharyngeal insufficiency was created, and acoustic analysis was performed using the boundary element method to clarify the acoustic characteristics of velopharyngeal insufficiency. The participants were six healthy adults. Computed tomography (CT) images were taken from the frontal sinus to the glottis during phonation of the Japanese vowels /i/ and /u/, and models of the vocal tracts were created from the CT data. To recreate velopharyngeal insufficiency, coupling of the nasopharynx was carried out in vocal tract models with no nasopharyngeal coupling, and the coupling site was enlarged in models with nasopharyngeal coupling. The vocal tract models were extended virtually for 12 cm in a cylindrical shape to represent the region from the lower part of the glottis to the tracheal bifurcation. The Kirchhoff–Helmholtz integral equation was used for the wave equation, and the boundary element method was used for discretization. Frequency response curves from 1 to 3000 Hz were calculated by applying the boundary element method. The curves showed the appearance of a pole–zero pair around 500 Hz, increased intensity around 250 Hz, decreased intensity around 500 Hz, decreased intensities of the first and second formants (F1 and F2), and a lower frequency of F2. Of these findings, increased intensity around 250 Hz, decreased intensity around 500 Hz, decreased intensities of F1 and F2, and lower frequency of F2 agree with the previously reported acoustic characteristics of hypernasality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developments in Acoustic Phonetic Research)

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15 pages, 9956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improvement of Sound-Absorbing Dips in Nonwoven Fabric Sheet with Back Air Space: Division of Back Air Space by Additional Nonwoven Fabric Sheet

by Shuichi Sakamoto, Kodai Sato, Gaku Muroi, Yusuke Nakao, Kaito Kuboki and Nobuhito Taguchi

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020025 - 30 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study was conducted to improve the sound absorption dips in nonwoven fabric sheets with a back air space. Considering the particle velocity distribution in the back air space, another nonwoven sheet was added to divide the air space into layers. The sound [...] Read more.

This study was conducted to improve the sound absorption dips in nonwoven fabric sheets with a back air space. Considering the particle velocity distribution in the back air space, another nonwoven sheet was added to divide the air space into layers. The sound absorption coefficient of the sound-absorbing structure was theoretically derived using the transfer matrix method. The nonwoven sheet model with the Rayleigh model and the air space behind the nonwoven sheet were mathematically represented using the transfer matrix. The transfer function method was employed to combine the transfer matrices to obtain the sound absorption coefficient. A two-microphone acoustic impedance tube was used to measure the sound absorption coefficient, and the theoretical and experimental values were compared. The sound absorption dip of the first order was improved by placing a nonwoven sheet at a position half the thickness of the back air space. It was theoretically predicted that placing the nonwoven sheet at 1/4 of the back air space thickness from the rigid wall would improve the first- and second-order sound absorption dips. By selecting the conditions, a similar trend was observed during the experiments. The study shows that the higher the ventilation resistance of the added nonwoven fabric sheet, the more improved the sound absorption dip. Full article

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13 pages, 9188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sound Absorption of Hydroponically Grown Plants

by Gino Iannace, Antonella Bevilacqua, Amelia Trematerra and Giovanni Amadasi

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020024 - 23 Apr 2025

Abstract

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil and serves as an efficient agricultural production system. Compared to traditional farming, hydroponic crops offer significant water savings while also reducing the need for chemical pesticides by eliminating soil-borne diseases and pests. Additionally, hydroponic [...] Read more.

Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil and serves as an efficient agricultural production system. Compared to traditional farming, hydroponic crops offer significant water savings while also reducing the need for chemical pesticides by eliminating soil-borne diseases and pests. Additionally, hydroponic materials are being studied as a potential food source for space missions and as a substitute for industrially produced animal feed during winter. This paper explores the acoustic absorption properties of green materials derived from hydroponic systems. The roots of wheat grown in a porous layer formed a rigid skeleton structure. After drying, test specimens were prepared for acoustic measurements, undertaken using an impedance tube, to assess the material’s sound absorption performance. The results indicate optimal absorption around 600 Hz and 2000 Hz, reaching α = 0.95–1.0, which is significant. A brief description of the substrate layers is also provided. Full article

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23 pages, 13788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Sonoscape of a Rural Town in the Mediterranean Region: A Case Study of Fivizzano

by Almo Farina and Timothy C. Mullet

Acoustics 2025, 7(2), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/acoustics7020023 - 22 Apr 2025

Abstract

The sonoscape of a small town at the foot of the Northern Apennines Mountains in north–central Italy was studied using a regular grid of automatic recording devices, which collected ambient sounds during the spring of 2024. The study area is characterized by high [...] Read more.

The sonoscape of a small town at the foot of the Northern Apennines Mountains in north–central Italy was studied using a regular grid of automatic recording devices, which collected ambient sounds during the spring of 2024. The study area is characterized by high landscape heterogeneity, a result of widespread suburban agricultural abandonment and urban development. Sonic data were analyzed using the Sonic Heterogeneity Index and nine derivative metrics. The sonic signatures from 26 stations exhibited distinct, spatially explicit patterns that were hypothesized to be related to a set of 11 landcover types and seven landscape metrics. The unique sound profile of each sample site was consistent with the emerging heterogeneity of landcover typical of many Mediterranean regions. Some sonic indices exhibited stronger correlations with landscape metrics than others. In particular, the Effective Number of Frequency Bins Ratio (ENFBr) and Sheldon’s Evenness (E) proved particularly effective at revealing the link between sonic processes and landscape patterns. The sonoscape and landscape displayed correlations significantly aligned with their variability, highlighting the ecological heterogeneity of the sonic and physical domains in the study area. This case study underscores the importance of selecting appropriate metrics to describe complex ecological processes, such as the relationships and cause-and-effect dynamics of environmental sounds among human altered landscapes. Full article

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