Shivaji University, Kolhapur, researchers receive Indian patent for portable sound absorbent device

Kolhapur: Researchers from Shivaji University, Kolhapur, have developed a portable device that can scientifically assess whether an installed sound absorption system is functioning effectively. The innovation, named Portable Sound Absorption Tester, has been granted an Indian patent and is being hailed as a breakthrough in professional sound-testing technology.The device has been developed by senior chemist Dr Kalyanrao Garadkar of Shivaji University, along with Dr Sandeep Sable and Dr Rohant Dhabbe of Jaysingpur College and Dr Chandrala Jatkar of DKTE Institute, Ichalkaranji.Till now, the efficiency of sound absorption systems installed in recording studios, theatres, auditoriums or similar spaces was largely judged through experience rather than scientific measurement. The newly developed tester changes that by enabling immediate and accurate evaluation of a sound absorber's performance right after installation —something that has been achieved for the first time.Dr Garadkar said portable sound-absorbing sheets and panels were commonly used in studios and vocal recording environments to create an acoustically "quiet" space by reducing echoes and resonance around microphones. "This leads to clearer and more professional-quality sound for vocals and instruments," he said.The Portable Sound Absorption Tester can evaluate a wide range of noise-control absorbers, including porous foams, fibres, fabrics, membranes, panels and resonant absorbers. It also assists in improving the quality of sound-absorbing materials used to reduce echo. Being compact and lightweight, the device is easy to carry and economically viable.Dr Garadkar said the device operates within the human audible range of 20Hz to 20kHz. "It generates sound waves across this spectrum and directs them at the material being tested. The unabsorbed sound waves are captured by a microphone and displayed on the device's screen as current or voltage values. Based on these readings, users can instantly determine whether the sound absorption setup is performing as required. The tester is also expected to be a valuable tool for researchers working on sound-absorber fabrication technologies," he said.