๐ Data publikacji: 09.06.2025
In early 2026, the AudioTech Labs team led by Dr. Marta Kowalska launched an ambitious research program to develop acoustic metamaterials—engineered structures designed to manipulate sound in ways beyond conventional materials. Unlike passive absorbers or reflectors, these metamaterials promised active control: beam steering, focusing, and selective suppression of sound over targeted frequency bands. The first stage involved numerical modeling with COMSOL Multiphysics. Engineers designed Helmholtz-resonator arrays and labyrinthine channel networks tuned for resonances between 500 Hz and 5 kHz. Simulations predicted up to 30 dB attenuation within narrow bands while minimizing off-resonant reflections.
To validate models, they printed 150×150×20 mm polymer tiles on a FormLabs SLA printer loaded with silica-enhanced resin. Each tile featured periodic cavities 2–8 mm in diameter, separated by 0.5 mm walls. In an anechoic chamber, precision microphones recorded phase shifts up to 120° at resonance, confirming directional control of acoustic waves. Spectral analysis also showed suppression of side resonances, highlighting suitability for high-fidelity recording studios and performance halls requiring stringent acoustic profiles.
Encouraged by results, the team formulated a photopolymer powder blend infused with lightweight metal micro-beads to broaden damping across frequencies. Layer-by-layer, they optimized UV exposure time and energy to maintain fine wall thickness and consistent pore geometry. Reflecting on Part 1, Dr. Kowalska remarked: “3D printing allows us to program sound at the microscale, tailoring acoustic response precisely to user needs and environments.”
In Phase 2, AudioTech Labs partnered with SilentWave Industries and ClearConcert Acoustics to scale manufacturing. Large-format composite printers produced 1×2 m panels, combining elastomeric matrices with embedded ceramic micro-spheres. These panels featured graded porosity—denser outer layers transitioning to sparser cores—achieving broadband absorption from 200 Hz to 10 kHz. ISO 354-certified tests recorded an average absorption coefficient of 0.85 mid-band, exceeding conventional foam and fiberglass panels.
SilentWave integrated the panels into electric vehicle cabins, reducing motor noise transmission and improving passenger comfort by 25% in subjective surveys. ClearConcert installed custom frames and metamaterial panels in the Gdaลsk Philharmonic Hall, earning praise for clarity and balanced acoustics from critics and musicians alike. Production utilized the AudioFlow monitoring suite, limiting rejects to 5% and ensuring repeatable performance across batches.
Innovation also extended to adaptive acoustic walls. Motorized panel arrays dynamically altered internal pore geometry in response to realโtime sound and temperature data, governed by machine-learning algorithms. Field trials over 1000 cycles demonstrated robust operation in conference rooms and openโplan offices, showcasing a new era in responsive architectural acoustics.
Phase 3 focused on embedding electronics within metamaterial panels. In collaboration with Wrocลaw University’s Electronics Department, engineers integrated piezoelectric membranes into foam lattices, harvesting up to 5 V under 1 kHz vibration. This power could run IoT sensors for environmental monitoring, creating selfโpowered acoustic sensor networks in infrastructure.
The OpenSound3D initiative launched an openโsource platform for sharing cell designs, measurement data, and printing parameters. Researchers across 15 countries contributed new geometries via GitHub, fueling rapid innovation through community collaboration.
Looking ahead, acoustic metamaterials are slated for aerospace noise reduction—lightweight turbine noise shields—and medical imaging enhancements via tunable ultrasound lenses. Dr. Kowalska concluded: “3Dโprinted acoustic metamaterials herald a new era of sound control—from silent offices to advanced diagnostics—where design freedom meets acoustic precision.” ๐