Influence of absorption properties of materials on the accuracy of simulated acoustical measures in 1:10 scale model test

This study investigated the absorption characteristics of materials in a multi-purpose hall using computer models, 1:10 scale model and actual hall measurements of Gimhae Arts Hall (GAH), in order to predict and evaluate the acoustical characteristics. The elements of this scale model, such as reflecting walls, seats, audience, and absorption banners, were made with materials selected according to their absorption coefficients, measured in a 1:10 scale model reverberation chamber. After the real hall was completed, in situ acoustical measurements were conducted in the GAH and compared with those of the scale model hall. Comparison of these measurements showed that the delay time of the major reflections in the scale model hall was similar to that of the real hall. However, the reverberation time especially at low frequencies showed a difference between the scale model hall and the real hall measurements. The results of computer simulations for both scale model and actual hall showed that the absorption of seats and audience, the structural detail of the reflecting walls with different thickness and air spaces, and the duct facilities in the open-type ceiling are the major differences. It was confirmed that there are more complicated absorption characteristics in the scale model design of a multi-purpose hall than a concert hall.