Acoustic Topology Optimization of Noise Barrier by Considering Zwicker's Loudness

Abstract

We present a method to design noise barriers with acoustic topology optimization by considering the Zwicker’s Loudness around the barrier. The main objective of this research is to minimize the main specific loudness of target critical band by optimizing distribution of absorbing and reflecting material of noise barriers by formulating an acoustical topology optimization problem. The Helmholtz equation modeling the wave propagation is solved using finite element method. The sensitivity is calculated using adjoint variable method and chain rule. The method supposes given source and receiver position and the calculation provides an optimal design for the barrier to reduce the Zwicker’s Loudness at receiver point over a critical band. Different examples are presented to estimate the influence of the sources and receiver positions. A reduction of the loudness when using optimized barriers is achieved compared to utilizing conventional noise barriers.