Improving robustness of active noise control in ducts

A robust active noise controller (ANC) is proposed here for finite ducts. While the H(infinity) control theory provides theoretical ground and numerical algorithms to design robust controllers, it is important for an engineer to design and formulate a robust controller so that the objective is more achievable and the H(infinity) constraints less restrictive without sacrificing robustness. A new robust ANC is designed this way with an extra actuator to improve achievable performance and introduce more degrees of freedom to controller parameters. The new strategy relaxes H(infinity) constraints without sacrificing robustness and enables the ANC to tolerate a wide variety of errors and uncertainties including truncation errors between a finite model and an infinite field. Theoretical analysis, numerical examples, and experimental results are presented to demonstrate the improved performance of the proposed ANC when subject to a certain level of uncertainties in a duct.     

Robust active control of broadband noise in finite ducts

This study focuses on robust active control of broadband noise in finite ducts. Our analytical and experimental studies suggest the existence of several technical flaws in the path models of conventional active noise control (ANC) systems. These are sensitivity of the path model with respect to boundary conditions, and nonminimum phase (NMP) secondary and reference paths. For finite ducts with small cross sections, the traveling wave model (TWM) may be adopted to find an effective solution to these problems and lead to a robust ANC system. Since many practical "noisy" ducts are finite with small cross sections, the proposed ANC has many practical applications. Its robustness and ability to suppress broadband noise will be explained theoretically and verified experimentally.     

RETRACTED: A Hybrid Nonlinear Active Noise Control Method Using Chebyshev Nonlinear Filter

Investigations into active noise control (ANC) technique have been conducted with the aim of effective control of the low-frequency noise. In practice, however, the performance of currently available ANC systems degrades due to the effects of nonlinearity in the primary and secondary paths, primary noise and louder speaker. This paper proposes a hybrid control structure of nonlinear ANC system to control the non-stationary noise produced by the rotating machinery on the nonlinear primary path. A fast version of ensemble empirical mode decomposition is used to decompose the non-stationary primary noise into intrinsic mode functions, which are expanded using the second-order Chebyshev nonlinear filter and then individually controlled. The convergence of the nonlinear ANC system is also discussed. Simulation results demonstrate that proposed method outperforms the FSLMS and VFXLMS algorithms with respect to noise reduction and convergence rate.     

A nonlinear active noise control algorithm for virtual microphones controlling chaotic noise

In active noise control (ANC) systems, virtual microphones provide a means of projecting the zone of quiet away from the physical microphone to a remote location. To date, linear ANC algorithms, such as the filtered-x least mean square (FXLMS) algorithm, have been used with virtual sensing techniques. In this paper, a nonlinear ANC algorithm is developed for a virtual microphone by integrating the remote microphone technique with the filtered-s least mean square (FSLMS) algorithm. The proposed algorithm is evaluated experimentally in the cancellation of chaotic noise in a one-dimensional duct. The secondary paths evaluated experimentally exhibit non-minimum phase response and hence poor performance is obtained with the conventional FXLMS algorithm compared to the proposed FSLMS based algorithm. This is because the latter is capable of predicting the chaotic signal found in many physical processes responsible for noise. In addition, the proposed algorithm is shown to outperform the FXLMS based remote microphone technique under the causality constraint (when the propagation delay of the secondary path is greater than the primary path). A number of experimental results are presented in this paper to compare the performance of the FSLMS algorithm based virtual ANC algorithm with the FXLMS based virtual ANC algorithm.     

Improving performance of FxRLS algorithm for active noise control of impulsive noise

Active noise control (ANC) systems employing adaptive filters suffer from stability issues in the presence of impulsive noise. New impulsive noise control algorithms based on filtered-x recursive least square (FxRLS) algorithm are presented. The FxRLS algorithm gives better convergence than the filtered-x least mean square (FxLMS) algorithm and its variants but lacks robustness in the presence of high impulsive noise. In order to improve the robustness of FxRLS algorithm for ANC of impulsive noise, two modifications are suggested. First proposed modification clips the reference and error signals while, the second modification incorporates energy of the error signal in the gain of FxRLS (MGFxRLS) algorithm. The results demonstrate improved stability and robustness of proposed modifications in the FxRLS algorithm. However, another limitation associated with the FxRLS algorithm is its computationally complex nature. In order to reduce the computational load, a hybrid algorithm based on proposed MGFxRLS and normalized step size FxLMS (NSS-FXLMS) is also developed in this paper. The proposed hybrid algorithm combines the stability of NSS-FxLMS algorithm with the fast convergence speed of the proposed MGFxRLS algorithm. The results of the proposed hybrid algorithm prove that its convergence speed is faster than that of NSS-FxLMS algorithm with computational complexity lesser than that of FxRLS algorithm.     

Adaptive variable step-size neural controller for nonlinear feedback active noise control systems

Adaptive filter techniques and the filtered-x least mean square (FxLMS) algorithm have been used in Active Noise Control (ANC) systems. However, their effectiveness may degrade due to the nonlinearities and modeling errors in the system. In this paper, a new feedback ANC system with an adaptive neural controller and variable step-size learning parameters (VSSP) is proposed to improve the performance. A nonlinear adaptive controller with the FxLMS algorithm is first designed to replace the traditional adaptive FIR filter; then, a variable step-size learning method is developed for online updating the controller parameters. The proposed control is implemented without any offline learning phase, while faster convergence and better noise elimination can be achieved. The main contribution is that we show how to analyze the stability of the proposed closed-loop ANC systems, and prove the convergence of the presented adaptations. Moreover, the computational complexities of different methods are compared. Comparative simulation results demonstrate the validity of the proposed methods for attenuating different noise sources transferred via nonlinear paths, and show the improved performance over classical methods.     

Simulations and experiments for hybrid noise control systems

The purpose of this study is to explore the effects of sound elimination in a cylindrical duct by combining a reactive muffler and active noise control (ANC) system. Besides the exploration via experiment of the combined noise control system, a Grey prediction based on Grey theory is also applied to ANC for this hybrid system.In the experiment for this system, a combined adaptive algorithm is adopted. The results of sound elimination are compared between cases with ANC systems installed before the muffler and after the muffler. The results indicate that the sequence of arrangement of muffler can influence the results of active noise control. According to the results of experiment and simulation, the effect of noise reduction in ANC system is influenced extremely by reference signal received. The transmission loss and insertion loss in this system are also discussed in details. Besides, the experimental results indicate that the hybrid system has the advantages over a traditional muffler when the muffler is not designed for the frequency of the noise. Furthermore, the mathematic simulation for acoustic field in a cylindrical duct with a muffler is performed in order to verify the experiment results. Finally, Grey theory is applied to estimate the expected signals in order to perform a computer simulation of Grey prediction to explore effects of the ANC system. The results indicate that application of Grey theory gives a good control for the hybrid system.     

A gradient-free adaptation method for nonlinear active noise control

Active Noise Control (ANC) problems are often affected by nonlinear effects, such as saturation and distortion of microphones and loudspeakers. Nonlinear models and specific adaptation algorithms must be employed to properly account for these effects. The nonlinear structure of the problem complicates the application of gradient-based Least Mean Squares (LMS) algorithms, due to the fact that exact gradient calculation requires executing nonlinear recursive filtering operations, which pose computational and stability issues. One favored solution to this problem consists in neglecting recursive terms in the gradient calculation, an approximation which is not always without consequences on the convergence performance. Besides, an efficient application of nonlinear models cannot avoid some form of model structure selection, to avoid the well-known effects of overparametrization and to reduce the computational load on-line. Unfortunately, the standard ANC setting configures an indirect identification problem, due to the presence of the secondary path in the control loop. In the nonlinear case, this destroys the linear regression structure of the problem even if the control filter is linear-in-the-parameters, thereby making it impossible to apply the many existing model selection methods for linear regression problems. A simple and computationally wise low demanding approach is here proposed for parameter estimation and model structure selection that provides an answer to the mentioned issues. The proposed method avoids altogether the use of the error gradient and relies on direct cost function evaluations. A virtualization scheme is used to assess the accuracy improvements when the model is subject to parametric or structural modifications, without directly affecting the control performance. Several simulation examples are discussed to show the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms.     

Variable step-size based method for acoustic feedback modeling and neutralization in active noise control systems

This paper investigates the issue of the acoustic feedback during online operation of active noise control (ANC) systems. In the existing approach, two FIR filters are used for this task: adaptive for feedback path modeling (FBPM) and fixed for feedback neutralization (FBN). Previously, a simplified method is proposed where these two tasks of modeling and neutralization have been combined into one feedback path modeling and neutralization (FBPMN) adaptive filter. Here we introduce an intuition based variable step size (VSS) parameter, for LMS equation of FBPMN filter. This VSS is motivated from the fact that the error signal of FBPMN filter contains a disturbance-component that is decreasing in nature. The computer simulations are carried out for single-channel and multichannel ANC systems. It is demonstrated that the proposed method achieves better performance than the existing methods.     

Adaptive Laguerre filters for active noise control

Feedforward controllers are used in many active noise control (ANC) systems to generate destructive interference in noise fields. An ideal feedforward ANC controller should have an infinite impulse response (IIR) transfer function, but most available feedforward ANC controllers have finite impulse responses (FIR) instead. The main reason is related to the adaptation algorithms of ANC systems. In general, adaptive FIR filters converge faster with guaranteed stability. In this study, the adaptive Laguerre filter is proposed and tested in an ANC application with positive experimental effects. The new ANC controller is an IIR filter, but its adaptation is similar to that of a FIR filter with fast convergence and guaranteed stability. Detailed explanations and analysis are presented in the main text.     

无次级通道建模有源噪声控制算法的实验研究

以管道中有源噪声控制为实验平台,基于ADSP21161N数字信号处理评估板实现了本文作者早先提出的不需要次级通道建模的基于LMS方法的四方向搜索型有源控制算法,并给出了该算法在实际应用中收敛系数的选取原则。针对单频和多频噪声的实验结果表明,前人两方向搜索型有源控制算法在大部分频率上都能收敛,但在次级通道相位为±90°的频率不能收敛,而本文作者所提出的四方向变收敛系数搜索型算法,在所有频率都能快速收敛。     

磁悬浮－气囊主被动混合隔振装置理论和实验

为了更有效地控制舰船动力机械宽频和低频线谱振动的传递,提出了一种将磁悬浮作动器与气囊隔振器集成应用的磁悬浮-气囊主被动混合隔振装置。通过对磁悬浮作动器机电耦合特性和混合隔振系统动力学特性的分析研究,确定了满足线谱振动控制要求和满足混合隔振装置性能要求的参数设计方法。针对主动控制时,FxLMS (filtered-x least mean square)算法在小阻尼系统上需用高阶FIR滤波器建模,运算量大的问题,提出了分频段控制的改进FxLMS算法,并有效地解决了作动器的非线性效应问题。样机实验结果表明:理论分析是正确的,该项技术控制力需求小,装置稳定性好,具有优良的宽频隔振和低频线谱振动控制效果。      

Distributed shell control with a new multi-DOF photostrictive actuator design

With the photovoltaic effect and the converse piezoelectric effect, the lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate (PLZT) actuator can transform the narrow-band photonic energy to mechanical strain/stress—the photodeformation effect. This photodeformation process can be further used for non-contact precision actuation and control in various structural, biomedical and electromechanical systems. Although there are a number of design configurations of distributed actuators, e.g., segmentation and shaping, been investigated over the years, this study is to explore a new actuator configuration spatially bonded on the surface of shell structures to enhance the spatial modal controllability. A mathematical model of a new multiple degree-of-freedom (multi-DOF) photostrictive actuator configuration is presented first, followed by the photostrictive/shell coupling equations of a cylindrical shell structure laminated with the newly proposed multi-DOF distributed actuator. Distributed microscopic photostrictive actuation and its contributing components of a one-piece actuator and the multi-DOF actuator are evaluated in the modal domain. Effects of shell's curvature and actuator's size are also evaluated. Parametric analyses suggest that the new multi-DOF distributed actuator, indeed, provides better performance and control effect to shell actuation and control. This multi-DOF configuration can be further applied to actuation and control of various shell and non-shell structures.     

噪声主动控制研究的发展与动向

本回顾了噪声主动控制的典型设计方法和常见的算法,结合当前较新的鲁棒控制方法,指出今后噪声主动控制的一些发展动向,为这一技术的实用性提供借鉴。     

Causal impedance matching for broadband hybrid noise absorption

The complementary strengths and weaknesses of passive and active noise control (ANC) methods have motivated many researchers to develop hybrid noise absorbers that integrate both control strategies. The impedance matching technique (IMT) is the most effective for such a purpose. An unsolved problem with available IMT schemes is the a priori reference signal that limits IMT applications. This study proposes the use of the forward wave, available by the two-microphone method, as the reference signal. Due to inevitable errors in wave separation and inlet reflection of the control signal, the absorber becomes a feedback system. A simple and stable ANC is developed for impedance matching without the a priori reference signal. The proposed absorber has an absorption coefficient of 0.9 or above in a frequency range of 60-850 Hz. It is stable in the presence of sensor mismatch and robust with respect to significant variation of inlet boundary conditions.     

An indirect hybrid sound transmission loss controller

The control of sound transmission through panels is an important noise control problem in the aerospace, aeronautical, and automotive industries. The trend towards using lightweight composite materials that have lower sound insulation performance is a negative factor regarding low frequency transmission loss. Double-panel partitions with the gap filled with sound absorption materials are often employed to improve the sound insulation performance with reduced added weight penalty. However, in the low frequency range, the strong coupling between the panels through the air cavity and mechanical paths may greatly reduce the sound transmission performance, making it even lower than the performance of a single panel in some frequency ranges. In this work, an experimental investigation of a new kind of hybrid (active/passive) acoustic actuator is presented. The idea consists of replacing the acoustic absorption material by a hybrid actuator aiming at improving the transmission loss at low frequencies without altering the passive attenuation. A prototype of the system is tested in a plane wave acoustic tube setup. Different kinds of SISO feedforward control implementations were used to attenuate the sound power transmitted through the hybrid active–passive panel using an error microphone or a particle velocity sensor placed downstream with respect to the sample panel. Measurement results of the transmission loss with active and hybrid attenuation are presented and discussed.     

Performance of synthetic jet actuators based on hybrid and double-acting principles

The design of the discussed fluid jet actuator followed two ideas: a double-acting operation of reciprocating pumps, and a hybrid synthetic jet (HSJ) actuation. The entire actuator consists of two basic parts, namely the front (central) and rear chambers, from which fluid is displaced by the opposite sides of the same diaphragm. The actuator operates in a double-acting (antiphase) regime with air as the working fluid. The central chamber generates the standard (zero-net-mass-flux) axisymmetric synthetic jet (SJ), while the rear chamber generates system of several non-zero-net-mass-flux HSJs arranged around the central SJ. A number of variants of HSJs with different geometry were designed, manufactured and tested. Their behavior was investigated experimentally using the smoke visualization, reaction force measurement, hot-wire anemometry, and naphthalene sublimation technique. The tests confirm the efficiency of the present design.     

A curved ultrasonic actuator optimized for spherical motors: Design and experiments

Multi-degree-of-freedom angular actuators are commonly used in numerous mechatronic areas such as omnidirectional robots, robot articulations or inertially stabilized platforms. The conventional method to design these devices consists in placing multiple actuators in parallel or series using gimbals which are bulky and difficult to miniaturize. Motors using a spherical rotor are interesting for miniature multidegree-of-freedom actuators. In this paper, a new actuator is proposed. It is based on a curved piezoelectric element which has its inner contact surface adapted to the diameter of the rotor. This adaptation allows to build spherical motors with a fully constrained rotor and without a need for additional guiding system. The work presents a design methodology based on modal finite element analysis. A methodology for mode selection is proposed and a sensitivity analysis of the final geometry to uncertainties and added masses is discussed. Finally, experimental results that validate the actuator concept on a single degree-of-freedom ultrasonic motor set-up are presented.     

Comparison of convergence characteristics of adaptive IIR and FIR filters for active noise control in a duct

There are perceived drawbacks to using adaptive IIR filters, as opposed to adaptive FIR filters, for active noise control (ANC). These include stability issues, the possible convergence of estimated parameters to biased and/or local minimum solutions and relatively slow rate of convergence. Stability issues can generally be resolved easily using well-established methods. In this Technical Note convergence rates are compared with particular reference to the active control of noise in a duct, for which the dynamics of the cancellation path are important. The characteristics of this application of ANC set it apart from usual signal processing applications of adaptive IIR filters and this has implications for the convergence properties. Various control approaches are considered: IIR least mean squares (IIR-LMS), IIR recursive least squares (IIR-RLS) with FASPIS (Fast Algorithm Secondary Path Integration Scheme) and FIR-LMS. Numerical examples are presented. It is seen that the cancellation path dynamics generally have the effect of changing the performance surface of the estimated IIR filter from bimodal to unimodal, which has consequences for improving the convergence rate of adaptive IIR filters. It is also seen that IIR-RLS has a comparable rate of convergence to FIR-LMS, with the steady-state performance being as good or better.     

Cross-layer design based hybrid MAC protocol for cognitive radio network

A minimal interrupted communication link setup is the primary objective of the MAC layer. The MAC layer is responsible for accessing the communication channel. At MAC, a control channel is used in the selection of collision free paths for data transfer. Therefore, the design of the control channel plays a pivotal role in achieving desired QoS in cognitive radio (CR) technology. Various schemes of control channel design help the CR network (CRN) to obtain better performance. The reported work focuses on a hybrid MAC protocol. The novelty of the scheme lies in the process of hybridization. A cross-layer framework is proposed for hybridization. The cross-layering has been done between network and MAC layer to achieve hybridization between different control channel design approaches. The broad categorization of control channel designs is between licensed in-band and dedicated unlicensed out-band approaches. In the in-band control channel design approach, the opportunistic use of data channel as control channel fulfills the decorum of CR technology. As soon as the primary user activity rises in the data channels, the in-band approach suffers from poor performance. On the other hand, the dedicated unlicensed out-band control channel design approach provides global coverage and all-time availability but suffers from channel saturation and intruder attacks. Interference in the control channel limits the use of out-band design. This motivates authors to develop a hybrid MAC protocol that can float between licensed in-band design and unlicensed out-band design to access the control channel. The hybridization is possible by sharing a primary user free channel list (PCL) among CR nodes. In conventional hybrid MAC protocols, the PCL is shared as a control beacon in the channel. Extra packet requirement as control beacon affects the performance of CR scenario. The proposed cross-layer design based hybrid MAC protocol avoids the need of an extra control beacon for PCL transmission. Further, the hybridization helps in achieving advantages of both in-band and out-band control channel design approaches. The simulation results show that the proposed hybrid MAC protocol performs satisfactorily in terms of packet delivery ratio, average throughput, average delay and control overhead. The performances are also tested in the worst scenarios.