Theoretical and Computational Acoustics

Learning Outcomes

Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Validate numerical acoustics codes against a relevant benchmark acoustic problem.
• Use more advanced mathematical methods in analytical acoustics.
• Write simple Finite and Boundary Element codes for the Helmholtz problem.
• Formulate solutions to predict sound fields generated by complex source distributions.
• Assess the suitability of different numerical methods for a wide range of practical acoustical problems.

Full CEng Programme Level Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• The module includes the use of first principles in mathematics to solve complex problems. The module also includes engineering judgement for mesh design and an understanding of errors associated with the finite and boundary element numerical methods. Solutions involving first principles in mathematics applied to acoustical engineering problems are assessed by examination. Applying numerical methods to practical problems in acoustics and recognising the limitations of the techniques is assessed by coursework.
• The module contains analytical and numerical methods used in acoustical engineering, and an understanding of the limitations of the methods (and error analysis for the numerical methods). The methods are applied to model complex problems in acoustics involving generation and radiation of sound in both interior and exterior domains. The use of both analytical and numerical methods for complex problems in acoustical engineering is assessed by coursework and examination.
• The module contains advanced topics on analytical methods and numerical methods in the field of acoustical engineering. The analytical methods include the mathematical formulation of complex problems involving acoustic sources radiating into interior and exterior domains. The numerical methods include the mathematical formulations that underpin the finite and boundary element methods which are widely used in engineering. The solution of complex problems in acoustical engineering is assessed by coursework and examination.

Subject Specific Practical Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Determine the mesh requirements and boundary conditions for simulating target acoustic problems.
• Reduce real world acoustical problems to more simple problems amenable to numerical solution.
• Apply Green function theory for solving partial differential equations.
• Understand user documentation for commercial acoustic codes and use relevant tools to create computational models, perform analysis and post-process results.
• Apply the numerical methods presented in the course to problems in acoustics and other areas.

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Boundary conditions for practical acoustic problems.
• Computational requirements of numerical analyses and trade-off between cost and accuracy.
• Integral solutions of the inhomogeneous Helmholtz equation using the acoustic Green function.
• Advanced mathematical methods associated with modelling sound fields generated by complex source distributions.
• The equations that govern the propagation of sound in a stationary medium.
• The background theories, features and limitations of Finite Element and Boundary Element Methods in the frequency domain for acoustics.

Transferable and Generic Skills

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Read, understand, and interpret scientific texts and papers.
• Communicate clearly in written reports.
• Apply critical analysis and evaluation skills.
• Synthesise information from a range of sources.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.