Research Proposal

ARET 2220
 

ASSIGNMENT 1 - RESEARCH PROPOSAL

 

"TONE IT DOWN"

 

 

SUMMARY:            

            Sound is all around us, from waking up to the alarm clock echoing off the walls, on to hearing the bustle of an average day, and then finally to a silent evening. Most can attest that having sound is something often taken for granted. But how does this affect one when it comes to creating the average home, recording studio, theatre, or opera house? How does sound work? How do acoustics transmit throughout a basic building? Is it possible to find products out there to absorb sound? Through research on the very subject of what we hear, I hope to answer the ultimate question......What available options are there for a good quality, environmentally friendly and innovative approach to soundproofing a small music room?



PURPOSE: 

            Researching the possibilities of soundproofing products on the market today, will provide readers with a wider knowledge of what is available to the average consumer. It will bring awareness of the variety of materials and possibilities in innovation and technology. To prove that it's not impossible to 'do it yourself' and create a theatre/movie room or recording studio in one's own home. The research will grant insight on the basics of soundproofing, providing a solid background of information to learn and compare. Exploring existing theatre design and construction from the many beautifully created sound controlled buildings that stand today, will grant the opportunity to see how acoustics have become what it is.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: 

            The conclusive goal is to be educated on the understanding of soundproofing, how it works and how it is accomplished. How sound is absorbed or transmitted throughout the home and how that can be modified to fit our current ideal and constantly changing home lifestyles. In order to achieve this, it is important to have a basic understanding and definition of sound. How does it work in the human body? How does it affect us in our homes daily? How is it measured, absorbed and transmitted? What technologies are available and options for obtaining soundproofing materials? Can it be purchased locally? The research will also help enlighten the reader on environmentally friendly or green products on the market and positive alternatives to creating a space that is healthy to be in as well as a favourable choice for protecting the world we live in.

METHODOLOGY AND ANALYTICAL APPROACH:

 

            The plan is to research and organize product data in such a way that tables/graphs can be made for comparison. To clearly see the multiple options, and better choices based on ones preference. If at all possible and not too expensive, real samples would be the best to compare and study. Product samples would also provide knowledge on weight, smell, dyes, dust, etc. that may be a deciding factor when choosing the right material. Also discovering how easy or difficult it is to attain and install. Along with current, available options it is also important to study up on existing buildings. To look at what was previously constructed for managing acoustics in a building and whether or not similar methods take place today. Like an old saying, "to know where you're going, you must first know where you've been." - Unknown. In order to look ahead, towards technological advances, it's important to have a basic understanding of what's been done in the past.

PREVIOUS STUDIES:

 

            Many suppliers have done various studies on new technologies, and ways to improve their products. Along with suppliers, the CMHC has its own research on "the degree of acoustic comfort provided by multi-family buildings." (CMHC. 2012 Sept. What's New Guide,pg.1.Acoustics.Cal.MH.12R26) as well as "a worldwide perspective on problems, policies and solutions" to "why noise matters" (CMHC. 2012 Sept. What's New Guide.pg1.Acoustics.Cal.TD.892.S74.2011.) With the competition in the market in this day and age, many companies are making every effort to prove themselves and stand out as having some of the best quality products available, providing a wonderful opportunity to keep up to date with the latest advances. In an attempt to mix old with new, a small previous study was done on a concert hall in England, and how they made adjustments in the way of absorbing sound to prevent objects in the hall as well as in other rooms, like the mechanical room, etc. to prevent vibration. One effort they made was hand plaster the interior walls to create a fitting look as well as to diffuse sound. Gregerson, J. (2011). Old-World Design Meets New-World Technologies. ENR: Engineering News-Record, 267(15), MW22

DISSEMINATION OF WORK: 

            The research will provide an excellent opportunity to get the public involved through the use of a blog. Where questions can be asked and ideas can be shared, as well as experiences and feedback. What's important to one person, may not be to another, so getting the public involved is a great way to gain understanding of multiple views and approaches. A variety of ages and experience shared will be extremely beneficial to the progress of the research.

CONTRIBUTION TO ACADEMIC GOALS AND OBJECTIVES: 

            My role is to primarily be educated on the world of soundproofing. To gain an understanding of how it works as well as the various materials and options available as a consumer and member of the general public. I plan to use this research to teach others, and eventually put to the test and purchase materials to soundproof my music room in my own home. This will provide a wonderful canvas for me to learn and grow from. It will provide a positive reward for me to complete the research and apply it to my lifestyle. Music has and always been something I have been extremely passionate about, along with a love of architecture. I can't think of a better way to expand my knowledge and abilities than through experience. It will allow me to make confident, informed decisions on the subject of sound control, which can only be beneficial to future endeavours.