Technical Column

Automated Sound Pressure Scanning for ISO 26101 Validation — Free-Field Compliance Using HBK + Traversing System in Sonora Anechoic Chambers —

2025年8月21日

Acoustic Power Measurement

Introduction: What is the Inverse Square Law in Acoustic Power Testing?

In ISO 3744 and ISO 26101, verifying that a test space approximates a free-field environment is critical.
One key requirement is confirming that sound pressure level (SPL) decreases by approximately 6 dB per doubling of distance from the source — known as the inverse square law.

To validate this, ISO 26101 specifies:

  • SPL comparison at multiple distances from the sound source
  • Linear decay relationship between log(distance) and SPL
  • Allowable deviation within ±1.5 dB over specified frequency ranges

The Challenge: Manual Testing Is Not Enough

Accurate inverse square validation requires high-precision, repeatable measurement at defined distances.
Manual mic placement often leads to errors, variations, and low repeatability.

The solution: an automated traversing system combined with HBK’s precision acoustic front-end.

System Configuration: SPAC / VSAC × Traverser × HBK

ComponentDescription
Test SpaceSPAC or VSAC: Sonora’s anechoic chambers with controlled acoustic fields
MicrophoneHBK Free-Field Mic (e.g. Type 4189) + LAN-XI modules
MovementXYZ-axis traversing system (stepper motor or servo-driven, 0.5 mm precision)
Analysis SoftwareHBK PULSE or BK Connect: linear regression, deviation plots, pass/fail logic

Why Use a Traversing System?

  • Accurate mic positioning at various radii (r₁, r₂, r₃…)
  • Consistent, automated measurement sweep for each frequency band
  • Data visualization for inverse square plots with trendlines
  • Enables ISO-compliant reporting and lab certification

Typical Use Cases

  • In-house acoustic labs for small motors, fans, or appliances
  • Preparing for international compliance or CE marking
  • Design verification of free-field zones within custom test rooms
  • Standardizing test procedures for training or production QA

Why HBK?

  • High-fidelity microphones with calibration traceability
  • LAN-XI modules provide synchronized, multi-channel A/D conversion
  • PULSE/BK Connect offers real-time frequency analysis & ISO workflows
  • Can be fully integrated with motion control and PLC systems

Consultation & Support

  • Design and integration of a Sonora chamber + traversing system
  • HBK sensor and software setup tailored to your test goals
  • Support for ISO 26101 mic positioning and evaluation methods
  • On-site training or turnkey system delivery available

[Contact Moritani for System Integration Support]

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    Introduction of the Manufacturer

    • ホッティンガーブリュエルケアー Hottinger Bruel & Kjaer

      HHBK is a merger of two companies: Brüel & Kjær of Denmark and HBM of Germany.
      Brüel & Kjær is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of acoustic and vibration measurement instruments, known as a total measurement chain supplier.

      Learn more about HBK

    • ソノーラテクノロジー Sonora Technology Co., Ltd.

      Sonora Technology is a leading Japanese manufacturer of industrial anechoic chambers and anechoic boxes.
      From design and manufacturing to installation and acoustic performance assurance, Sonora provides fully integrated solutions to build complete acoustic measurement environments from the ground up.

      Learn more about Sonora

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