Shape optimization of reactive mufflers using threshold acceptance and finite element methods

Recently, research on the acoustic performance of reactive mufflers under space constraint becomes important. The attenuation performance of single and double expansion-chambers under space constraint is presented in this paper. A shape optimization analysis is performed using a novel scheme called Threshold Acceptance (TA), the best design obtained by the shape optimization method are analysed by Finite Element Method (FEM). The acoustical ability of the mufflers obtained is than assessed by comparing the FEM solution with the analytical method. Results show that the maximal STL is precisely located at the desired targeted tone. In addition, the acoustical performance of mufflers with double expansion-chamber is found to be superiors to the other one. Consequently, this approach provides a quick and novel scheme for the shape optimization of reactive mufflers.