Simulation and modelling

Acoustic simulations play a key role in our own product development process and we also make use of them in a number of different ways in our consultancy services. We can build finite element simulations of your acoustic problems to help gain a deeper insight into the issue. This can be a particularly useful tool for problems where further experimental testing could be difficult or time consuming.

How we can help

The main software package we use is COMSOL Multiphysics®. This software package is based on the finite element method, which is a flexible technique that can be used to model complex geometries and a range of different physics. Our extensive experience with COMSOL and its wide range of functionality allow for fast development of detailed simulation models.

By using realistic simulations in 1D, 2D, 2D axisymmetry, or 3D, we can optimise existing products and design new products more quickly. Simulations also help our designers, researchers, and engineers to gain insight into problems that are difficult to handle experimentally. By testing a design before manufacturing it, we can save companies both time and money.

Acoustics

Finite element analysis allows us to model the propagation of sound waves around and through complex structures and accurately capture near-field effects such as scattering, interference and diffraction. We use these tools to design our SonoTEC® metamaterial solutions and can set up our simulations to automatically vary design parameters to find an optimised design for the situation.

Types of study include: pressure acoustics, acoustic-structure interaction, aeroacoustics, thermoviscous acoustics, ultrasound, and geometrical acoustics.

Computational fluid dynamics

When developing acoustic solutions, we often have to take airflow/ventilation into consideration and we have access to a range of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation tools for this. When performed as part of an acoustic investigation, CFD can help us understand and identify potential sources of aerodynamic noise in products. Conversely, it also allows us to investigate the impact of potential different noise reduction strategies on the airflow or ventilation.

Types of study include: laminar flow, turbulent flow, thin film flow, multiphase flow, porous media flow, conjugate heat transfer, convection and diffusion.

Structural mechanics

We can perform mechanical simulations to determine how structures behave under mechanical loading and determine how it deforms and where high stresses occur. These tools can also be used to determine the vibrational modes of structures to help identify potential problem frequencies. Additionally, they complement our acoustic simulation capabilities; particularly when it comes to modelling acoustic-structure interactions, i.e. where an incoming airborne sound wave produces mechanical vibrations in a solid structure, moves through the structure and can then be re-emitted into the air as a sound wave on the far side.

Types of study include: stationary, eigenfrequency, transient, frequency response, linear buckling, mode analysis.

Other modelling capabilities

We also have experience performing acoustic simulations using other techniques, including:

Determining the transmission loss of composite wall systems.
Indoor acoustic modeling of large industrial spaces using ray-tracing software. This is particularly useful when considering high frequency noise
in large spaces, where finite element analysis would be challenging.