Enhancement of Sound Clarity of Classrooms Using Sound Diffusers and Panel Absorbers

  • Shin, Sang-Bong (Dept. of Architectural Engineering, Chungbuk National University) ;
  • Haan, Chan-Hoon (Dept. of Architectural Engineering, Chungbuk National University)
  • Published : 2009.06.30

Abstract

The present study aims to investigate the effects of sound diffusers and absorbers on the sound clarity in classrooms. In order to do this, computer simulations were carried out to find the effective area of treatment which could enhance the sound clarity in the room. Acoustic measurements were undertaken in a lecture room with several conditions changing the surface of walls and ceilings with diffusers and absorbers. Diffusion and absorption treatments were applied to the side walls, rear wall and the ceiling of the classroom. SPL, RT, D50, RASTI were measured at 9 measurement points with one sound source and MLS was used as the sound source signal. The results show that higher sound clarity was obtained when diffusers were applied to rear walls and ceiling rather than side walls. Also, it was confirmed that absorption increased sound clarity more effectively with smaller amount in comparison with diffusers. It was also concluded that the effects of sound diffusers and absorbers on the sound clarity could be obtained distinctly at the rear area of the classroom.

Keywords

References

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