Investigating the impact of ultrasonic noise on the perception of human doing work that requires concentration

Project manager: Bożena Smagowska M.Sc. (Eng.).

Project summary:

The aim of the project was to determine the impact of ultrasonic noise annoyance on the perception and psychomotor ability of human doing work that requires concentration. A test stand was developed as part of this project; it makes it possible to test in laboratory conditions the impact of annoyance caused by ultrasonic noise on work that requires concentration; methodology was suggested. Acoustic sources of an ultrasonic signal were designed and produced for the test stand.Subjects were selected on the basis of audiometric tests in low (125-800 Hz) and high (10-16 kHz) frequencies, the level of reactiveness (a temperament questionnaire) and health. Twenty males aged 20-30 years with average reactiveness, good hearing and good health qualified. Subjective tests showed that after exposure to maximum ultrasonic noise the number of subjects complaining of the following symptoms increased: pressure in the head, discomfort and nervous tension, sleepiness and problems with concentration.The results of psychological tests and the questionnaire regarding subjective feelings vary; this may be caused by the learning experience in tests and by personal differences.

Unit: Department of Vibroacoustic Hazards

Duration: 01.01.2008 – 30.12.2010