The Development of an Active Noise Control System for a Small Axial Fan

Authors

Kent L. Gee, Brigham Young University
Dr. Scott D. Sommerfeldt, Brigham Young University

Keywords

active noise control system, ANC, small axial fan, antinoise

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Physics and Astronomy

Abstract

Axial cooling fans used in computers, projectors, and printers often contribute significantly to background noise levels in both the workplace and classroom because of the distinct and often annoying tones they produce. These tones are principally caused by spatially unsteady flow through the fan, due to finger guards and other obstructions. Active noise control (ANC) lends itself as a viable approach to fan tonal noise reduction because of the low frequency nature of the noise, which limits the effectiveness and practicality of more traditional “passive” means of controlling noise. An ANC system cancels or attenuates unwanted noise by creating “antinoise” (noise out of phase with that of the original source), adjusting the control signal until the targeted noise has been minimized.

Recommended Citation

Gee, Kent L. and Sommerfeldt, Dr. Scott D. (2014) "The Development of an Active Noise Control System for a Small Axial Fan," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 1264.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/1264