Comparing Optimized Sound Absorption Coefficient of Aluminum Foam with Local Search Algorithm, Genetic Algorithm, and Particle Swarm Optimization

The principle of passive sound control is based on the phenomenon of sound absorption by absorbers. The factors affecting sound absorption include porosity, pore size, pore opening size, thickness, and air flow resistance.

In this study, the authors compared the optimization results of the effective parameters on sound absorption coefficient (AC) using the three optimization methods Guided Local Search (GLS), Genetic Algorithm (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The programming was done in MATLAB software. Thicknesses of 5, 10, 20, 30 and 40 mm were chosen for optimization at frequencies of 500 to 3000 Hz.

In frequencies above 2 kHz (thickness 5 to 40 mm), the three optimal methods had the same performance and estimated AC of 1. At low frequencies of 2 kHz and thicknesses of 30 and 40 mm, GA and PSO methods obtained an AC of 1.

It seems that the GA and PSO optimization algorithm are suitable methods to optimize the AC of metal foam in low and high frequencies.