London South Bank University, LSBU Hub, Battersea Lecture Theatre, SE1 0AA|
Abstracts
There will be three short presentations.
Acoustic Evolution and Performance Analysis of the Royal Festival Hall, London, UK
Antonella Bevilacqua
This study investigates the evolving acoustic design of the Royal Festival Hall (RFH) in London through investigations into the absorbing properties of the theatre chairs under different percentages of occupation. The acoustic interventions have been explored with laboratory and field tests to enhance the hall’s performance, alongside the changes in material properties of the hall's envelope.
Noise Exposure from Wooden Clappers: A Sound Impulse Source
Rozhin Naeemaee
This study aims to evaluate the noise exposure levels from a potential risk associated with clappers’ technique while raising awareness on the safe use of them. Methodology of the study starts by conducting measurements at two different indoor locations with 1.32s and 0.51s RT. The study includes variable such as 9 participants, three distances (0.5, 1 and 2m) from the source, and clapping strength. The study also continues to investigate the frequency spectrum, cumulative exposures and effectiveness of hearing protection. The study concludes by comparing the measured result with existing regulations and providing recommendations.
The findings state that while wooden clappers are portable and dependable, they carry potential auditory risks if proper hearing protection is not employed. Users must exercise caution and adhere to safety prevention measures, such as maintaining a distance of 1m for individuals without hearing protection.
Balancing architectural heritage and acoustics
Alexandra Timageni
Kaftantzoglou Hall in Athens, Greece with a volume of 4400 m3is used for lectures and special events. Its architecture is characterised by highly reflective materials and curved surfaces. This project aims to improve the speech intelligibility in a monumental space, in a culturally sensitive and aesthetically coherent way. On-site measurements and computer simulations were used to redesign the space. Results indicate that carefully positioned porous absorptive materials, combined with transparent microperforated panels that subdivide the large volume, can improve the intelligibility and reduce reverberation time.
The presentations will be followed by a short Q&A session.
As usual, we will be heading to the pub after the talk to catch up and continue the conversation. It would be great to see as many people in person as possible.
Those planning to attend in person MUST register for security access. The link to register for in person attendance can be found below:
https://www.cpdtag.com/app.php?event=5D6C5EC58A49EF74C530ECA187F758E
Registration for in person attendance closes on Monday 10th November at 17:00.
Please arrive at 5.45pm for prompt 6pm start. The nearest Tube station is Elephant & Castle.