Design approach for minimizing sound power from vibrating shell structures

A design approach for minimizing sound power radiation from vibrating thin shell structures is presented. The method couples finite element analysis for determining structural modes and vibrations with a boundary element/wave superposition code for determining sound power radiation. Noise reduction is accomplished herein by optimal placement and sizing of small point masses on the structure. These masses alter the critical mode shapes so as to reduce sound power. The simulated annealing technique is used to determine the location and/or magnitude of the point masses. A computer program has been developed for design. Design examples are presented with the use of the computer program.