A high-resolution goniometer to measure sound diffraction patterns

Abstract

Surface scattering and diffuse reflections from acoustic diffusers have recently become a significant topic of research for room acoustics. An acoustical goniometer can be implemented to create a circular microphone array to characterize the polar response for various types of diffusers. Particular areas of interest include validating the physical theory of diffraction (PTD) through the use of finite sized diffusers. In order to properly describe this phenomena, a microphone array must achieve a fine enough angular resolution in addition to fulfilling the far field requirements. This talk will discuss the implementation and results of a portable goniometer with a radius of five meters and an angular resolution of 1.25 degrees. This design is intended to be easily deployed in empty, indoor spaces of sufficiently large dimensions for a full 360 degree diffraction responses.