Shipboard Airborne Noise Control Design and Diagnostic Tool

In the 14 years since the last revision of SNAME's Design Guide for Shipboard Airborne Noise Control, acoustic prediction techniques and control methods have significantly improved. Current prediction techniques effectively utilize sophisticated computer programs. These could possibly be tied to CAD/CAE programs. NCE believes that the government, naval architects and shipyards can greatly benefit from these improvements. When properly implemented, this latest technology can improve the noise and vibration environment on all vessels. At the same time, associated adverse impacts on space, weight, maintainability of systems, and cost will be reduced. This process would also provide an integrated systems approach while reducing the effort needed to predict and control noise on-board vessels. Many of the approaches used in Statistical Energy Analysis can be easily coded and used by any engineer involved in the design process. Noise control treatment types and their expected effectiveness have also changed. These changes can be factored into various databases. Databases can be setup for machinery and equipment acoustic source levels; airborne, structureborne, and waterborne path transmission effects; and acoustic characteristics of materials used in shipboard constructions. This software would be very effective for predicting and reducing noise on all types of vessels.