A review of the application of active noise control technologies on windows: Challenges and limitations

Abstract

Traffic, construction and industry noises are the main sources for noise pollution for mega cities. These noises mainly propagate through the windows of the dwelling and can degrade the comfort level of a living space. Various studies have demonstrated that the active noise control (ANC) system is a potential technique which can be applied on the windows in order to mitigate environmental noise level inside a building. The present paper attempted to give a detailed description for the use of ANC system in windows under various scenarios, namely closed, fully opened and partially opened windows. For closed windows, the most common design methods of ANC system are cavity and panel controls. For opened window, the secondary source is either mounted on the frame of the window or implanted in the walls. For partially opened windows, the most common design method is cavity control. Advantages and shortcomings of various ANC designs were presented and discussed in the present study.