Acoustics and noise

Reducing aircraft noise during takeoffs and landings is an important parameter that is being pursued in the aircraft industry. In the next ten years, international organizations have set strict rules for different levels of noise in various means of transportation, such as aircraft. These rules can reduce daily flights, reduce flight hours, and even shrink aircraft size. Reducing the noise of aircraft and other flying equipment can help airlines avoid legal action by international bodies.

In airplanes, several sources are involved in noise production. The main source of noise in an aircraft is when the engine takes off, but turbulence currents around components such as the landing gear, flap, and wing are equally involved in noise generation during landing.

Because even small geometric details affect the aircraft’s acoustic signature, it is necessary to consider the complete geometric details of the various aircraft components in order to accurately predict the noise. The use of numerical simulation software can perform aircraft noise prediction operations without the need for prototyping and physical testing of equipment.

Numerical modeling

The use of the Lattice Boltzmann solver in the CFD method can help to stimulate the noise from the turbulence and propagate it to the earth. Developed in the SIMULIA suite of ten years by NASA, the technology can provide more accurate results than older CFD methods in predicting acoustic sources and noise signatures.

PowerCase software can be used to prepare geometry for noise simulation. PowerFlow software, which has a variety of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools, can then be used to calculate the airflow around the aircraft model and the resulting noise. Then, in the post-processing phase, the noise in the remote areas is analyzed and the effective noise level (EPNL) is calculated. Finally, design engineers can benefit from these results in improving design and geometric modifications.

With the help of numerical simulations, in designing such advanced equipment, without the need to build a prototype, the optimal model can be designed and the necessary modifications applied before construction. In addition to the fact that each part can be analyzed separately, it is possible to analyze the final assembly sample and determine its noise signature. Experiences gained in aircraft design have shown that using new numerical modeling methods, noise intensity can be reduced by up to 50%.

If the design of equipment such as wind turbines, aircraft, home appliances, and other items requires acoustic analysis and noise forecasting, Benomusi can provide you with a variety of consulting and software services in this field. Get in touch with us.