Acoustics centers around the propagation of sound waves. Both airborne and waterborne acoustic waves are studied. Through faculty-led projects, midshipmen have opportunities to explore the production, reception, and alteration of sound using analytical, computational, and experimental techniques. Acoustic testing facilities of particular note are the two walk-in anechoic chambers wherein the walls and ceiling almost entirely absorb incident sound waves. Midshipmen are invited to browse the descriptions of faculty research interests and contact faculty members to inquire about the most recent research projects available.

Facilities:

• Two walk-in anechoic chambers
• Three dedicated lab spaces

Equipment:

• Speakers, microphones, hydrophones, ultrasonic transducers, shakers, accelerometers
• Portable laser Doppler vibrometer

Matthew Fronk

fronk@usna.edu

Matthew Fronk investigates the propagation of acoustic and elastic waves in periodic media. Carefully-designed patterns of geometry, material properties, and boundary conditions interact with acoustic and elastic waves to enable phenomena such as filtering, focusing, and diode-like transmission. In particular, Matthew Fronk studies the effect of nonlinearity on periodic media whereupon wave amplitude can activate or deactivate the phenomena associated with periodicity. He validates theoretical findings using numerical simulation and physical experiments. Most recently, he has taken interest in additive manufacturing as a viable method to realize nonlinear periodic structures.

Murray Korman

korman@usna.edu

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Kevin McIlhany

mcilhany@usna.edu