Numerical modelling in acoustics and dynamics

ISVR Consulting provides a comprehensive acoustics and vibration modelling service. We use a wide range of industry standard software for numerical modelling and simulation. This enables designs to be tested with a computer model and acoustical or vibration problems can be found and solved before committing expenditure on building prototype machines or actual buildings.

Finite Element Modelling

Finite Element Model of a steel frame building with concrete slab floors

ISVR Consulting uses the ANSYS Finite Element code to assist with the design of structures to prevent excessively high levels of forced vibration. The finite element method is used to predict natural frequencies of vibration, the response of a structure to force inputs, and the resulting stress levels. Our experience in finite element modelling includes:

Vibration isolation of engines and pumps, and design of machinery rafts
Design of production machinery to avoid vibration-induced misalignments
Low noise design to avoid resonances in constant speed machinery
Control of vibration transmission in buildings
Dynamic and static stress analysis

Boundary Element Modelling

We use SYSNOISE boundary element code to model the patterns of sound radiation from vibrating surfaces and the diffraction of sound fields around structures. Our experience includes the modelling of the sound field radiated by high-lift slats on aircraft and the design of an engine test bed to reduce installation effects. Research in ISVR has modelled the diffraction of sound around the human head (for acoustic imaging and virtual stereo). Other applications of SYSNOISE include the design of silencers, optimisation of sounders and alarms, and the modelling of loudspeaker systems.

Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA) modelling

Statistical Energy Analysis is a method of predicting the transmission of high-frequency noise and vibration through built-up structures. It is ideal for creating complete models of multi-source/multi-path sound transmission problems.

The AutoSEA2 code provides an extensive capability for modelling the characteristics of the noise sources, the flow of structure-borne and airborne noise energy, and the absorption by trim materials. Our experience includes models of ships, rail vehicles, motor cars, an oil production platform, and the design optimisation of lightweight buildings.

(Acknowledgement: ANSYS, SYSNOISE and AutoSEA2 are trademarks of ANSYS INC, LMS, and the ESI Group respectively.)

For further information contact

Malcolm Smith
ISVR Consulting,
University of Southampton,
Highfield,
Southampton,
SO17 1BJ,
United Kingdom

Telephone: 023 8059 2162 (+44 23 8059 2162 from outside the UK)
Fax: 023 8059 2728 (+44 23 8059 2728 from outside the UK)

Or E-mail: consultancy@isvr.co.uk