Table with Alveolar Resonant Layer for Near-Source Sound Absorption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sound-absorbing solutions for public and workplace environments, such as acoustic panels and furniture, are ineffective in reducing noise near its sources, prone to dust and allergen accumulation, and pose fire safety concerns, while also being cumbersome and aesthetically detrimental.
Innovation Solution
A table with a sound-absorbing design featuring a permeable finishing layer and an alveolar structure resonant inner layer, utilizing Helmholtz resonance theory to absorb sound waves effectively, while being fire-resistant and easy to clean, with micro-perforations and a durable construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If acoustic panels are positioned far from acoustic sources (on walls or ceiling), then installation is simplified, but efficacy in reducing noise near sources is moderate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the sound absorption function into two segments: a perforated front panel that can be easily installed and positioned close to noise sources, and a porous absorptive material behind it that handles the sound absorption. This segmentation allows the system to be placed near acoustic sources for high efficacy while maintaining installation simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The perforated panel acts as an intermediary element between the noise source and the porous absorptive material. It allows sound waves to pass through to the absorptive material while maintaining a compact structure that can be positioned close to acoustic sources, thus improving noise reduction efficacy without complicating installation.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If heavy porous materials are used for sound-absorbing furniture, then sound absorption is achieved, but the furniture is cumbersome and negatively impacts architectural space perception
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses porous materials efficiently - as a relatively thin rear layer rather than as thick bulky material. This allows achieving sound absorption functionality while minimizing the weight and volume of the furniture, thus resolving the contradiction between sound absorption and weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite structure with a perforated panel and a thin porous absorptive layer, eliminating the need for heavy traditional sound-absorbing materials. This composite design achieves effective sound absorption while keeping the furniture lightweight and aesthetically pleasing, resolving the contradiction between sound absorption and weight.
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
The table significantly reduces sound pressure levels near conversation areas, improves speech intelligibility, and maintains high absorption efficacy in crowded spaces, while being resistant to dust, dirt, and allergens, and compliant with safety regulations.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing Helmholtz resonance theory to absorb sound waves effectively
Implementation Method 2
The resonant inner layer (22) comprises an alveolar structure (24) and is suitable for making a plurality of resonant cavities (26)
Data Source
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AI summary
Table (12) comprising a support plane (14) having a finishing layer (16), and support means (18) for said support plane (14). The finishing layer (16) is permeable to air, and is intended to achieve an external finish of the support plane (14). The support plane (14) comprises a lower layer (20), between said finishing layer (16) and said lower layer (20) there being present at least one resonant inner layer (22) comprising an alveolar structure (24).