Acoustic imaging, or how to see noise

The topics covered in this article

What is acoustic imaging? Understanding, visualizing, and solving sound problems. Definitions

Acoustic imaging is an innovative technology that makes the sound visibleUnlike a conventional acoustic measurement (a simple overall level in dB), it offers a Detailed visual mapping of sound sources, with location, level and associated frequencies.

Thanks to this, acoustic imaging makes it possible to to accurately detect the source of unwanted noise, understand how they spread, and accelerate the definition of effective solutions, whether to reduce nuisances, optimize a product, or improve the acoustics of a building.

Construction Equipment Noise with Sound Mapping

How does acoustic imaging work?

Acoustic imaging relies on a technology called acoustic cameraThis system collects sound data using an array of microphones, then processes it with advanced algorithms to produce colored images (often maps), where:

  • Hot areas indicate noisy sources.

  • The colors represent the intensity or frequency of the sound.

  • The direction and location of the noise become immediately perceptible.

This analysis is done for each frequency because the sources of noise can depend on the frequency range.

Applications of acoustic imaging

Product development and optimization

When designing mechanical equipment, household appliances, or industrial components, acoustic imaging:

  • Allows identify problematic noise points,

  • Helps to understand their exact origin,

  • Facilitates the implementation of effective modifications prior to mass production.

Industrial diagnostics and maintenance

In industrial environments, unusual noise may indicate:

  • a defective part,

  • a mechanical imbalance

  • an assembly defect.

Acoustic imaging allows us to locate these anomalies quickly without dismantling or lengthy testing, thus reducing downtime and maintenance costs.

Environment & outdoor noise

For local authorities, industrial site managers, or regulatory measures, acoustic imaging facilitates:

  • Analysis of noise from roads, factories or facilities,

  • The location of specific sources responsible for nuisances,

  • The design of action plans for reducing noise levels.

A closer look at the Sound Scanner used by Impulsion Acoustique

Le Sound Scanner is an advanced example of a modern acoustic imaging tool based on innovative "Sound Field Scanning" technology.

  • Mobile and intuitive — The measurements and analyses are controlled via a smartphone or tablet application.

  • Fast and effective — High-resolution acoustic images are generated in just a few seconds.

  • Cloud solution and automated reporting — The results can be shared in the form of clear and actionable PDF reports.

  • Versatile — It adapts to different contexts: from machine diagnostics to building or environmental diagnostics.

Le Sound Scanner, a patented sound field scanning system simulates hundreds of microphone positions while using only a few, enabling a highly accurate acoustic image without complex hardware.

Acoustic antenna

Conclusion

Acoustic imaging is a technology powerful and practical to visualize, understand and solve noise-related problems. Whether it's to optimize product performance, diagnose noise on a machine or improve the acoustic comfort of a space, it's an essential tool for any proactive approach to acoustics.

If you want to have an acoustic imaging performed with a Sound Scanner, we can assist you from defining your problem to recommendations and solutions.