Acoustic measurements by drone
Acoustic characterization of certain industrial sources can be complex, if not impossible, using conventional measurement methods. Sources located high up, equipment installed on roofs, chimneys, extractors, cooling towers or high-risk areas can make human access difficult, costly or incompatible with site safety.
To meet these requirements, SIM Engineering has developed specific expertise in acoustic measurements by droneto accurately characterize inaccessible sound sources, while guaranteeing the safety of operators and continuity of activity on industrial sites.
Acoustic measurement challenges in complex areas
Many industrial facilities with a high acoustic impact are located in areas that are difficult to access: technical roofs, metal structures, confined areas, or sectors presenting mechanical, thermal or chemical risks. Access to these sources generally requires heavy equipment, such as gondolas, scaffolding or partial shutdowns.
Drone measurements offer an innovative alternative, enabling rapid access to these sources without mobilizing specific infrastructures, exposing personnel or disrupting site operations. This approach represents a major lever for making acoustic studies more reliable, while reducing operational constraints.
Expertise developed by SIM Engineering
SIM Engineering has complete mastery of the acoustic measurement chain, combining expertise in industrial acoustics, precision instrumentation and advanced data processing. The use of UAVs is an integral part of this engineering approach, complementing conventional sonometry and intensimetry methods.
These operations are carried out by engineers trained in the specific constraints of the industrial environment, and capable of adapting measurement protocols to the safety, regulatory and metrological quality issues involved in highly technical acoustic studies.
Measurement of sources at height and danger zones
Acoustic measurement campaigns using UAVs can be used to characterize sources located at great heights or in areas where human presence is incompatible. This approach is particularly well suited to roof ventilators, chimneys, extraction ducts, cooling towers or equipment installed on high structures.
The drone enables the acoustic sensor to be positioned as close as possible to the source, in the near field, for precise measurement of sound emissions. Flight paths are defined to ensure repeatability of measurements and safety of operations.
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Acoustic design office
Fast, secure acoustic data collection
One of the main advantages of drone measurements is the speed with which they can be deployed. Acquisitions can be made without the need to install complex access equipment, and without prolonged immobilization of the industrial site.
This methodology greatly reduces operating constraints, and enables work to be carried out even on installations in continuous operation. It is a particularly appropriate solution for environments with restricted access or high safety standards.
Advanced digital signal processing
Acoustic measurements by drone require specific data processing to guarantee reliability. SIM Engineering implements advanced digital processing to identify and suppress the drone’s own frequency signature.
This detailed analysis of the acoustic signal makes it possible to isolate the actual emissions from the source being measured, and to obtain usable data comparable to that obtained from conventional measurements. The results thus obtained meet the precision requirements of impact studies and acoustic assessments.
Integration into overall acoustic studies
Data from drone measurements are fully integrated into SIM Engineering’s acoustic studies. They are used to characterize sources, calculate acoustic power and define the directivities used in numerical models.
This information is then used for 2D and 3D acoustic modelingacoustic modeling, calculating the noise impact on the surrounding area, and the precise dimensioning of noise reduction solutions. This makes drone measurement an essential link in the acoustic engineering chain.
A tool for project performance
The use of UAVs significantly improves the quality of acoustic diagnostics, particularly on complex or highly constrained sites. It helps to reduce the uncertainties associated with source characterization and makes acoustic simulations more reliable.
This innovative approach also makes it possible to optimize design costs, limit major interventions and shorten lead times, while guaranteeing high technical standards.
An innovative solution for acoustic engineering
Acoustic measurements by drone are an integral part of SIM Engineering’s innovative approach. By combining acoustic expertise, advanced measurement technologies and a thorough understanding of industrial sites, our design office can offer solutions to the most complex problems.
This ability to intervene where conventional methods reach their limits enables SIM Engineering to effectively support manufacturers in controlling their noise emissions, securing their projects and sustainably improving their acoustic performance.
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