From Festivals to Factories: New SoundPLANessential+ Software Enables Smarter Noise Modelling

Noise simulation software experts SoundPLAN unveil SoundPLANessential+, its next-generation tool for smarter and faster noise modelling, from festivals to factories and more.

Moving beyond traditional noise prediction approaches that rely on static, pre-calculated directivity data for complex loudspeaker arrays, the software enables the management and documentation of multiple interacting arrays, varying propagation paths, and the effects of meteorological conditions. These factors make the software ideal for modelling industrial noise and sound systems at open-air events, in addition to noise sources from roads, railways, and parking lots.

SoundPLANessential+ is available exclusively as an annual subscription license, providing access to the latest features and continuous updates. The feature-rich software is the evolution of its proven, user-friendly software, SoundPLANessential, which is designed for noise mapping and basic sound propagation analysis for small to medium-sized environmental noise calculation projects.

Advanced noise modelling and documentation

SoundPLANessential+ includes a range of additional tools to enhance modelling and documentation capabilities. This includes an advanced map interface that allows geometric objects to be imported directly from OpenStreetMap, along with their properties, for accurate positioning and context of the investigation area. This saves a significant amount of time and further simplifies the creation of noise modelling data.

The software enables users to generate detailed facade noise contour maps for selected buildings and present them within comprehensive 3D visualizations. This approach allows for an in-depth analysis of noise impact, providing clear and informative insights into noise distribution around the structures.

Precision tool for industrial noise

When modelling complex industrial facilities, factoring in the directivity effects of noise sources is a critical factor. SoundPLANessential+ enables you to add 2D or 3D frequency-dependent directivities to your sources and include them in the noise prediction calculation.

You can use elements from SoundPLAN’s directivity library, define your own, and easily import existing loudspeaker data (such as Common Loudspeaker Format files). It can also generate chimney stack directivity effects based on the ISO 9613-2:2024 standard for calculating the attenuation of sound during propagation outdoors.

Sound calculation for outdoor music events

SoundPLANessential+ incorporates a groundbreaking standardized exchange (SDE) format for noise prediction across multiple sound systems. Traditional approaches for predicting environmental noise emissions from large-scale open-air events have relied on static, pre-calculated directivity data. These methods are inadequate for handling multiple interacting arrays, varying propagation paths, or the effects of meteorological conditions.

Collaboratively, industry leaders d&b audiotechnik, L-Acoustics and SoundPLAN have developed the SDE format between loudspeaker manufacturers’ sound system planning software and noise pollution software. This format enables dynamic, physically accurate simulation of multiple sound systems, incorporating simulation of the entire signal chain, including input signal, system tuning, and propagation effects.

Assessing the acoustic performance of buildings

The additional module, Building Acoustics – Outside, is available to prove the acoustic properties (the transmission loss) of a room against unwanted outdoor noise according to ISO 12354-3:2017.

Software for routine to special tasks

SoundPLAN also offers its fully comprehensive software solution, SoundPLANnoise, suitable for all facets of indoor and outdoor noise emission control, noise at the workplace or room acoustics, small projects, or nationwide noise mapping.

For more information about SoundPLAN’s noise simulation software and consulting services in the field of environmental and room acoustics, visit www.soundplan.eu.