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Last Updated
March 6, 2007

Welcome to the Structural Acoustics Branch Homepage ...

The Structural Acoustics Branch (StAB) conducts research to understand and control noise and its effects on aircraft, rotorcraft, and spacecraft structures, and on passengers and crew.

Photograph of twin engine propeller business airplane in flightBlank space before photoA major objective of the research is to develop validated analytical models of sound transmission through complex structures and within vehicle interiors that can form the basis of design tools for interior noise prediction and control. Further, the StAB is developing advanced active and passive noise control concepts for vehicles of conventional, advanced metallic, and composite materials.

Photograph of helicopter flying by microphones' width=Blank space after photoIn the area of sonic fatigue, StAB conducts research to understand, predict, and control the response of vehicle structures of advanced metallic and composite materials to intense acoustic loads. Engine nacelle acoustic liners are another research area where experiments and analyses are performed to improve understanding and predict the magnitude of noise reduction as a result of specialized duct absorbing materials for both engine inlets and hot engine exhausts.

Photograph of twin engine commercial passenger jet flying overhead' width=Blank space before photoIn human response to noise research, StAB conducts atmospheric propagation studies to improve prediction of generated noise and sonic booms at long distances. StAB also performs subjective acoustics research aimed at establishing verified, quantifiable noise criteria for community noise impact and passenger comfort and acceptance.

In performing its research, StAB utilizes unique facilities for simulating the noise and vibration environments of flight structures as well as passenger and crew compartments.