Aviation acoustical noise measurement

U.S. Army Aviation Development Test Activity investigated methodology for planning, collecting, analyzing, and reporting steady-state acoustical noise parameters of U.S. Army aviation systems. It was concluded that: Planning for development of future aviation systems should incorporate extensive acoustical analysis to minimize the negative impact of environmental noise on personnel. Acoustical analysis should be incorporated as early as possible during the development process so that appropriate corrective action can be initiated. Previous experience has demonstrated that system design which incorporates appropriate acoustical protection is less expensive to develop than noise reduction programs after the system is operational. It was recommended that a formal Test Operations Procedure (TOP) be developed which describes standardized procedures for planning, execution, collection, analysis, and reporting of steady-state acoustical noise parameters within current/future U.S. Army aviation systems.