Learning Outcomes

Through labs designed for specific subject topics, students will develop strategies for design and problem solving using both simplified hand calculations and predictive software. Students will have the opportunity to apply theory and lab tools directly to realistic problems requiring advanced understanding of systems integration and building performance issues in the term project. At the end of this course the student will be able to:

• Interpret building and environmental noise surveys, using a noise systems approach to assess existing conditions; characterize the noise source in terms of pressure and intensity and frequency, identify direct and flanking transmission paths.
• Evaluate the acoustical performance of building components, subsystems, and whole buildings, including: sound propagation from transportation source to receiver, sound transmission through partitions and building envelope, mechanical system noise and sound behaviour in non-complex rooms using analytical tools.
• Design and evaluate outdoor barriers for noise mitigation.
• Design building envelope to meet outdoor-to-indoor sound isolation requirements.
• Specify interior partitions for NIC rating based on STC, ratings and flanking conditions.
• Specify absorption materials for noise control in industrial and performance rooms.
• Assess the interface of natural and mechanical displacement ventilation systems with the building acoustics. ASHRAE algorithms will be used to predict and evaluate the acoustical performance of mechanical components and systems and their contribution to room acoustics.
• Evaluate sound characteristics relative to performance criteria and the relative merits of various performance criteria.
• Optimize design solutions to meet acoustical performance requirements given realistic economic, environmental, and social constraints.
• Integrate the applied science of acoustics into a whole buildings system with a view of human comfort, health, and serviceability and environmental sustainability.
• Evaluate options and develop appropriate integrated solutions for sustainable buildings rated through LEED and similar green building rating systems.
• Defend the results of the analysis in a clear and understandable manner, in either a written or public presentation

Effective as of Fall 2011