In order to create a safe, healthy and comfortable sound environment in buildings and urban spaces, such as from daily living spaces to concert halls, we are conducting researches on prediction and assessment methods through numerical simulation and measurement techniques, development of next-generation acoustic materials and noise control techniques, design guidelines based on physical and psychological evidence, and the desirable sound environment considering human diversity.

We are developing computational simulation techniques for architectural acoustics design and sound environment assessment. By modelling complicated vibro-acoustic interactions and developing fast solvers for large-scale problems, a numerical testing room is built to predict the acoustical performance of building materials and structures.

Room acoustics simulation in open-plan office

Sound insulation simulation for building element

More advanced acoustic materials are needed to meet the sound environment requirements in various situations. We are conducting researches on layered materials for improving sound insulation/absorption performance, new acoustic diffusers for room acoustic control and dry-type double floors that can reduce floor impact sounds.

CNC fabrication of acoustic diffuser panel

Excitation test for double floor system

The establishment of assessment standards and design guidelines is a social issue to ensure the sound environment in housings, schools and offices. We are advancing the rationalization of architectural acoustics designs through the theoretical aspects, experiments and field surveys, and also promoting new standardization of low-frequency measurement methods that are not applicable in the past.

Low-frequency sound insulation measurement

Psychological experiment in reproduced sound field

Today, acoustical designs considering human diversity is more and more important for the diversification of spaces. We are conducting researches on acoustical support for the visually handicapped and hyperacusis and improvement of sound environment in public space. Also, we are beginning a research on the active sound field control techniques for performance space in which acoustics is variable.

Calm-down space for special support class

Stage acoustics measurement for performance support

For more detail: Environmental Acoustics Laboratory (SAKUMA LAB)
Principal Investigator: Tetsuya Sakuma