Comsol Multiphysics Acoustics Module

Making the Case for Acoustic Modeling and Simulation Apps

- Mads J. Herring Jensen

With increasingly complex systems and tighter project deadlines, acoustical engineers are turning to numerical simulation software to get the job done. By using computational tools, design tasks can be accelerated and the need for costly and time-consuming physical prototypes can be reduced. Acoustics simulation also increases the understanding of a design, leading to better informed decisions and higher-quality products.

To reap the benefits, what capabilities are important in acoustics simulation? Applications often include the reproduction, propagation, and reception of sound signals under diverse conditions. This includes not only the interaction of the sound signal with structures, porous materials, and flow, but also modeling the transducers involved in the generation and detection of the sound signals. All these are multiphysics problems by nature that acousticians have to consider for the efficient development of new products and technologies. This places a critical requirement on the modeling software in terms of the ability to couple physics effects relevant to the full system.

Current Technological Challenges in Acoustics