Utilising the Strengths of Different Sound Sensor Networks in Smart City Noise Management
Invited paper
Brüel & Kjær Sound & Vibration Measurements A/S
Wednesday 3 june, 2015, 09:40 - 10:00
0.8 Rome (118)
Abstract:
City noise management involves planning, mapping, action plans, policing, complaint management, abatement, public awareness. With the advent and wide availability of mobile broad band and internet, many authorities, researchers and solution suppliers are excited about the use of sound sensor networks for these tasks. A sensor network can be defined as a group of specialized transducers and processing with a communications infrastructure and are intended to monitor and record conditions at diverse locations. This definition covers a wide range of different possibilities, designs and components such as MEMS microphones, processing software, type approved instrumentation, smart phones, communication hubs, etc. Are all networks suitable for all tasks? Newer networks often trade off measurement precision to increase the number of measurement points. This paper describes different network classes and implementation strategies. It discusses the relative merits of different sensors networks and describes what is important to take account of when implementing these networks for application to one or multiple noise management tasks, outlining what each can be used for and what they shouldn’t be used for. Aspects covered include hardware and system architecture possibilities of “smart” networks, social impacts, practical applicability and case studies. The paper concludes with some recommendations for utilisation of different types of smart networks and for further research.