A new noise source modelling tool for shooting sheds using novel edge diffraction methodology

Shooting ranges may have a shooting shed to protect the shooter against weather and to reduce noise to neighbours. The noise reduction depends on both shielding and reflection effects and can be difficult to measure due to complex surroundings. In this paper, a new tool will be presented to predict the influence of the shed on the emitted noise. The tool produces a substitute source which models the combined effect of the weapon and the shed, meant for efficient use in regular noise mapping software. It combines advanced edge diffraction methodology for the body of the shed, with a boundary element solution for minor areas representing openings or absorbers in the shed. With this approach we cover the full spectral range (up to 10 kHz) at low calculation time, with an intended precision comparable to traditional models based on boundary element methods. The tool is also intended for opposite use, by reciprocity, for instance to model quietness on the backside of a house by a road.