Acoustic sources’ localization in presence of reverberation

Abstract

For several years, aeronautical industries have wished to improve internal acoustical comfort. In order to make it, they need metrological tools which are able to help them to spot acoustical sources and the associated path in a specific frequency range (i.e., for helicopters’ internal noise: 1000–5000 Hz). Two major source’ localization’ tools exist: holography and beamforming, but these two techniques are based on a free field’s hypothesis. So, problems appear when these techniques are used in a reverberant medium. This paper deals with the study and the comparison of holography and beamforming results in an enclosed area. To complete the study, intensimetry is also implemented to have information on the energy propagation. In order to test the performances of each method, two reflecting panels are put at right angles to create a reverberant environment, in an anechoic chamber. We seek to locate loudspeakers clamped in one panel, in the presence of parasite loudspeakers located on the other one. Then, a parametrical study is led: localization and number of sources, coherent or noncoherent sources. Thus, using limitations, precautions to take, and a base of comparison three methods are put forward. Finally, some envisaged solutions to limit problems of reflections (signal processing, overturning, etc.) are presented.