A Mathematical Model Linking Form and Material for Sound Scattering: Design, Robotic Fabrication and Evaluation of Sound Scattering Discs: Relating Surface Form to Acoustic Performance
Dagmar Ingrid Elfriede Reinhardt, Densil A. Cabrera, Matthew C. Hunter · 2017
This paper presents empirical research into the acoustic performance of randomized robotically fabricated patterns. Randomness is introduced as degrees of variations in code, both supported by quasi-predictable variations in a computational process, and the select changes through multiple variables in precise robotic fabrication that extend the spectrum for manufacturing diversity in micro-geometries that can change the acoustic response of space. Through physical acoustic testing of scale model 1:10 prototypes in a scale model reverberant box, and consecutive re-modelling of sound discs based on root mean square and depth comparison, a tendency for acoustic behaviours both for scattering and absorption could be demonstrated that relates low spatial frequency magnitude of surface modulation closely to scattering coefficient in a limited case study of six samples. As a result, the study presents a mathematical model that links form and material for sound scattering.