Utilizing the phenomenon of diffraction for noise protection of roadside objects

Abstract

Abstract Presented here is a constructive solution to the challenge of utilizing the diffraction phenomenon for mitigating noise around roadside objects caused by the movement of vehicles on transportation routes. In contrast to existing prototypes, the innovation of the proposed solution lies in the creation of an active system that concentrates and directs oscillations originating from transportation sources. This active system, centered around sound absorption and reflection, establishes protective barriers and focuses on sound vibrations. The incorporation of diffraction effects within the Fraunhofer zones, along with the utilization of Fresnel lenses, directs attention towards these vibrations. The technical objective of harnessing the diffraction phenomenon for noise reduction around roadside objects involves demonstrating the feasibility of using a Fresnel zone plate (FZP) tailored for a specific oscillation frequency. This plate should demonstrate the ability to effectively manipulate sounds of varying frequencies while retaining its diffractive focusing capabilities. The intrinsic frequency characteristics of diffractive elements cannot be eliminated due to the inherent nature of sound diffraction. Consequently, it is imperative to thoroughly investigate and account for these properties. A groundbreaking discovery has been made, confirming the phenomenon of noise concentration originating from transportation sources. This revelation suggests that when a FZP is employed at frequencies other than its designed frequency, the concentration of oscillations remains. However, only the focal point of concentration shifts. Through experimentation, it has been established that the same FZP can be employed for varying wavelengths within a range of approximately ±20% while adhering to diffraction conditions. The feasibility of employing the thin lens formula to focus oscillations following the passage through a FZP has been substantiated. This solution also delves into the principal focusing, frequency, and shaping characteristics of the diffractive elements within FZPs. Furthermore, a computed estimation of the acoustic field scattered by a diffraction grating is compared against experimental data. This validates the approach and its efficacy in practical scenarios. The potential of harnessing the diffraction phenomenon to concentrate and regulate noise from transportation sources, thereby safeguarding roadside objects, is presented as a promising avenue for exploration.