Assessment on the use of additive manufacturing technologies for acoustic applications

Abstract

Additive manufacturing technologies have demonstrated great potential for reproducing complex geometries, free patterns and meticulous details. These characteristics are present in the design of solutions in the acoustic field with different requirements and functionalities. This paper reviews several articles dealing with different acoustic phenomena (absorption, filtration, modulation, diffraction or propagation of acoustic waves). The work demonstrates the high potential of these technologies in various applications. Solutions were found in the acoustic conditioning of absorbent panels sector, ranging from design to manufacture. Other design and manufacturing examples were evaluated, including hearing protection devices, musical instruments, silencers, hearing aids as well as electroacoustic sensors. It have been evaluated many references of the use of additive manufacturing in the generation and handling of acoustic waves used in advanced medical imaging and therapeutic ultrasound applications, among others. This study aims to obtain an updated overview of the use of additive manufacturing in the acoustic applications. It also summarizes the range and areas of application of these technologies in those environments where they could offer the best benefits.