On structure-borne sound: Experiments showing the initial transient acoustic wave field generated by an impacted plate

Abstract

The initial propagating transient acoustic field in air generated by an impacted plate is visualized. The transient traveling flexural waves in the plate created by the impact are shown, simultaneously. The experiments are performed using double pulsed holographic interferometry. It is shown that flexural waves in a plate act as a series of traveling acoustic sources. Since the flexural waves in the plate are dispersive the trace matched acoustical waves further away from the impact source propagate at a smaller angle relative to the plate than those closer to the impact. An observer situated close to the plate and away from the impact point will first receive high-frequency components of the sound. A quantitative evaluation of the acoustic field also shows that if there is a transient increase in pressure on one side of the plate there will be a similar decrease on the other side.