Program Overview

APPLIED ACOUSTICS AND SOUND DESIGN

Course Description

The main aim of the course is to give basic knowledge of building acoustics. The achieved competence will be a good understanding of the basic physics required to design and retrofit acoustic layouts effectively in existing buildings. Attention will also be given to current laws and technical regulations, as well as measurement and software design tools.

Aims and Learning Outcomes

The aim of the Applied Acoustics and Sound Design course is to provide the basic knowledge of applied acoustics to be used in cases of technical interest for building engineers, with a particular focus on building renovation. After studying basic topics in physical acoustics, the subjects of acoustic measurements, building acoustics, and architectural acoustics will be further explored.

• Managing social interactions, collaborative attitude, constructive communication in different environments, ability to respect others and their needs, willingness to overcome prejudices, express and understand different points of view, conflict management, ability to build trust, empathy.
• Developing imagination and creativity, critical thinking, strategic thinking, problem-solving with a focus on innovation contexts and evolving creative processes, ability to transform ideas into actions, self-awareness.
• Having decision-making autonomy, collaborative attitude, management of human and material resources, coordination, negotiation skills, uncertainty management.

Teaching Methods

The course is based on theoretical lectures, practical application, and laboratory activity. Regarding the workshop part, exercises and computer-based design activities will be conducted, both individually and in groups.

Syllabus/Content

• Physical acoustics.
• Human ear.
• Elements of psychoacoustics.
• Acoustic measurements.
• Noise and sound criteria.
• Sound sources.
• Sound propagation.
• Sound propagation in free field.
• Reflection, refraction, diffraction.
• Acoustic reverberation.
• Sound propagation in rooms.
• Indoor and outdoor acoustic insulation.
• Sound insulation in buildings.
• Acoustic properties of materials: sound absorption and attenuation.
• Acoustic performance of building components.
• Noise control in air conditioning and ventilation plants.
• Standards and regulations concerning environmental and building acoustics.

Recommended Reading/Bibliography

• Lecture notes prepared by the teacher
• M.J. Crocker, Handbook of Acoustics, Wiley-Interscience, 1998.
• F. A. Everest, K. C. Pohlmann, Master Handbook of Acoustics, McGraw-Hill Education; 6th edition, 2014.
• J. D. Turner, A. J. Pretlove, Acoustics for engineers, MacMillan, 1991.
• M. D. Egan, Architectural Acoustics, J. Ross Pub., 2007.
• M. Asselineau, Building Acoustics, CRC Press; 2015.
• F. Woods, Practical Guide to Noise Control, Published by Fläkt Woods Limited; 2005.

Teachers and Exam Board

Teachers

• Corrado Schenone
• Johan Augusto Bocanegra Cifuentes

Exam Board

• Johan Augusto Bocanegra Cifuentes (President)
• Davide Borelli (President)
• Corrado Schenone (President)

Exams

Exam Description

The final exam consists of a project and an oral examination.

Assessment Methods

During the oral exam, questions are asked on the topics covered in class (Physical Acoustics, Acoustic Measurements, Architectural Acoustics, Building Acoustics, Regulations and Standards) to assess understanding. The exam tends to focus, in addition to theoretical elements, on practical and engineering issues; for this purpose, the student will present the project developed during the course.

Agenda 2030 - Sustainable Development Goals

• Quality education
• Sustainable cities and communities