Aero Space News reports on tests and research being done by NASA on how to make aircraft quieter.
Scalloped edges on engine exteriors and toboggan-like fittings on landing gear are some of the high tech ideas being tested to reduce aircraft noise. Experts at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Va., and industry team researchers developed advanced noise reduction concepts. They used wind tunnels and computer simulations to initially test the concepts…The researchers are using a large, specially equipped 777 passenger jet provided by Boeing. The test facility was outfitted with sophisticated microphone arrays and other measurement devices to record noise levels….
“The new design tailors the chevrons to take into account the air flow and acoustic differences that occur when the engine is installed on the aircraft,” said Charlotte Whitfield, NASA’s Quiet Aircraft Technology manager of airframe system noise reduction…Laboratory tests show the advanced chevron shape will reduce noise as much as four decibels during take-off and when flying at cruise altitude. Results of the flight tests may lead to changes in aircraft configurations, future airplane engine and landing gear designs.
Plans are in the works to apply this new technology, if it works, to new Boeing 777. According to the report, this effort is an attempt to reduce “perceived aircraft noise” by 75 percent in 25 years in steps.
For more info on the project, see: NASA Aeronautics Vehicle Systems Program and Quiet Aircraft Technology.
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