Structure for absorbing acoustic and other wave energy

Abstract

A structure for absorbing wave energy, particularly acoustic wave energy, which includes a first essentially planar surface against which wave energy is directed and a second essentially planar surface generally parallel to and spaced from the first surface. Wedge-shaped elements of sound-absorbing material are disposed between the planar surfaces. All of the wedge-shaped elements, which may be of triangular cross section or pyramidal, have generally flat base portions which form said first planar surface against which wave energy is directed. The apex portions of the wedge-shaped elements are in substantial abutment with the second planar surface. The invention has utility in anechoic applications; however, in contrast to prior art structures of this type, the apex portions of the sound-absorbing material face away from incident wave energy rather than facing toward it.