Optimization of control source locations in free-field active noise control using a genetic algorithm

Control source locations in active noise control applications introduce a physical limit in the amount of attenuation achievable by the system. A genetic algorithm was developed to find the optimal control source locations for a primary source configuration in a free-field with a specified number of control sources. The optimal configuration of control sources around a single monopole primary source was shown to be a linear arrangement of the sources. This holds true for both two-dimensional as well as three-dimensional configurations. These results are presented for configurations using up to six control sources. The linear arrangement of control sources provides higher-order radiation characteristics than previously studied arrangements. Experimental verification has shown that a monopole primary source is controlled more effectively with a linear array of sources than sources surrounding the primary source for a broad frequency range. The source strength required from the control sources in each configuration is also explored.