Acoustic Sensor Array Placement for Building Zone Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods lack effective solutions for monitoring and improving acoustic parameters in habitable environments, which can impact occupant health and well-being due to exposure to negative sounds or inadequate positive sound exposure.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a system comprising acoustic sensor arrays and a central control circuit that delineates occupant and acoustic zones based on electronic floor plans, prioritizing sensor installation in high-frequency use areas and adjusting acoustic parameters through a sound producing or dampening system.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If acoustic sensor arrays are installed in all occupant zones, then measurement precision of acoustic parameters is improved, but device complexity and installation cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveacoustic parameter monitoring accuracyVSAvoidsensor array installation complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by prioritizing sensor installation in specific zones based on occupancy frequency and acoustic importance. The system identifies high-priority zones (e.g., conference rooms, open offices with high occupancy) and installs sensor arrays there first, while lower-priority zones may have fewer or no sensors. This selective deployment maintains adequate measurement precision in critical areas while reducing overall system complexity and cost.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If acoustic sensor arrays are installed in all occupant zones, then reliability of acoustic monitoring is improved, but loss of resources increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveacoustic monitoring reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of acoustic sensors required

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements partial action by deploying sensor arrays in only the most critical occupant zones rather than all zones. The system identifies high-priority zones based on occupancy patterns and acoustic importance, installing sensors there to achieve adequate monitoring reliability. This approach accepts that not all zones will be monitored with equal precision, but ensures reliable monitoring where it matters most, thereby reducing the total number of sensors needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

3Object-affected harmful factors

If acoustic parameters are continuously monitored and adjusted, then occupant comfort and well-being are improved, but use of energy increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenegative sound effects on occupantsVSAvoidenergy consumption of acoustic control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies periodic action by implementing scheduled acoustic monitoring and adjustment cycles rather than continuous operation. The system monitors acoustic parameters at intervals (e.g., every 15-30 minutes) and adjusts acoustic treatment elements accordingly. This periodic approach maintains occupant comfort by addressing acoustic issues when they arise, while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring and adjustment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

4Manufacturing precision

If acoustic treatment elements are adjusted frequently, then acoustic parameter optimization is improved, but device complexity and maintenance requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveacoustic parameter control precisionVSAvoidmaintenance complexity of acoustic control system

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamics by using adjustable acoustic treatment elements that can be repositioned or reconfigured based on real-time acoustic conditions. The system employs motorized or manually adjustable elements (such as movable panels, adjustable absorbers, or reconfigurable diffusers) that can be tuned to optimize acoustic parameters. This dynamic approach allows the system to adapt to changing occupancy and acoustic conditions while maintaining a relatively simple maintenance structure, as the elements are designed for easy adjustment and replacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This approach enables precise monitoring and adjustment of acoustic parameters, enhancing occupant comfort and well-being by reducing negative sound effects and increasing exposure to positive sounds.

Implementation Method 1

acoustic sensor arrays...configured to measure one or more acoustic parameters

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAcoustic detection: Sound

Data Source

PatentUS11898898B2Systems and methods for acoustic monitoring

Publication Date: 2024.02.13 DELOS LIVING LLC

AI summary

Systems, methods, and apparatus are provided for monitoring and improving one or more acoustic parameters in single- and multi-zone habitable environments. The acoustic monitoring system includes a built structure, a central control circuit, an acoustic control system, an environment database, an electronic user device, and acoustic sensor arrays which are installed within the built structure. To facilitate the sensor installation process, the built structure may be delineated into one or more zones. The central control circuit may be configured to instruct the installation of acoustic sensor arrays in particular zones within the built structure to obtain improved or even optimal or near optimal acoustic sensor array placement.