Application of Hybrid Absorptive-Diffusive Panels with Variable Acoustic Characteristics Based on Wooden Overlays...

This manuscript describes the application of novel hybrid acoustic panels with variable acoustic properties that could be used in the design process. Despite the significant growth in the modern acoustic absorbing and diffusing panel sector in recent years, there is still a need for sustainable and original designs that will fit standard interior design trends. The most significant requirement is satisfying the design needs of variable acoustic venues. The availability of acoustic panels with variable properties is minimal, as most designs are based on textiles in the form of rolling banners; therefore, there is no market diversity. The current paper presents an original solution for a novel perforated wooden panel based on third-degree-of-freedom curves. Due to the possibility of exchanging the front panel, the acoustic surface can be varied and adjusted to the room considering different requirements for the acoustic climate, for example, by modifying the attenuation range from low to mid-high frequencies. The novel panels have unique esthetic properties with functional acoustic features regarding sound diffusion and absorption. In this paper, sound absorption and diffusion measurements will be presented for the different variants of the panels, presenting the option to modify the parameters to adjust the panel's features to the room's needs. In situ acoustic measurements in a laboratory were conducted to test the variable acoustic panels' influence on the room's acoustic parameters, such as T30 and C80. In summary, the advantages of this kind of design will be discussed, alongside the possible impact on modern construction materials' utilization in architecture.