Evaluation of Fan Noise Using Phase Modulation and Psychoacoustic Theories

Loading...
Thumbnail Image

Date

2007-06

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

The Ohio State University

Research Projects

Organizational Units

Journal Issue

Abstract

Fans generate complex noise signatures related to their frequency of rotation. In order to reduce noise and improve sound quality, engineers use a variety of methods to reduce or re-distribute the sidebands which appear in the frequency spectrum. One method, phase modulation has already been utilized on air cooled engine fans. The fans were tested with subjective listeners to improve the sound quality of the design. Prior results indicated that there was some correlation between the listeners’ preference and the different levels of modulation. Our research on the human response shows, however, that increased phase modulation may not improve the sound quality as previously claimed. Such results may have direct applications to fan design and similar implications for designing gears, tires, and other rotating mechanical systems.

Description

Keywords

Phase modulation, Psychoacoustics Subjective

Citation