Numerical modelling of very low frequency sound transmission loss through walls from sonic boom

Infrasound and audible sound at very low frequency may cause human annoyance by inducing building vibration, involving both rattling and whole body vibration sensing of humans. Here, we present results from a numerical modelling study of the very low frequency component of sonic boom and its effect on generating construction vibration conducted. The work is conducted within the H2020 RUMBLE project. The motivation is low frequency noise and sound induced vibration caused by aircrafts, in particular those from sonic boom. Results from field measurements conducted prior to RUMBLE is combined with sonic boom signals to give a first estimate of potential magnitude of boom induced vibrations. Then a Finite Element (FE) model developed in COMSOL Multiphysics is used to simulate the low frequency sound transmission loss for one lightweight structure and one concrete wall. Secondly, the floor construction is added for simulating the floor vibration. Furthermore, we discuss possible generalizations, such as changing room configuration, wall types, high rise buildings etc. An outline for a review of the acoustic properties for different construction types are also given. Altogether, we discuss how the interplay between the various elements discussed above can be combined to better quantify sonic boom induced building vibration.