Quirks, problems, and work-arounds with ray-tracing software

Abstract

More and more, acoustical consultants and those in industry are turning to commercially available community noise prediction software to assist in assessing and mitigating community and environmental noise impacts. End users come from varied backgrounds that range from the novice to the expert in noise prediction or using noise ray-tracing software. What could start out as an expectation of a faster and more effective method of analyses, often turns into disappointment and frustration, if not total exasperation. Furthermore, hours upon hours of wasted effort and budget overruns can occur while learning to effectively use the software package chosen. This typically stems from a lack of adequate tutorials or training, apparent errors in the software, poor documentation, undocumented restrictions, lack of ease in learning and using the software, etc. This paper identifies some of the problems often encountered while modeling industrial facilities, propagation path influences, and receivers. In addition, some problems found in basic acoustic modeling are also identified and reviewed. In certain instances, work-arounds have been found, which allow the modeling process to continue with reasonable accuracy.