A comparison of optimization strategies in acoustical problems
by
J. Petrolito
La Trobe University, Bendigo
Coauthors: K.A. Legge

Optimization techniques are used to produce efficient designs in a variety of engineering disciplines. In many areas, the choice of objective function is a natural consequence of the problem at hand. For example, in structural design minimum weight is a commonly-used and natural objective function. However, in some areas the choice of objective function may be wider and less obvious than the problem suggests. One such area involves the design of musical instruments.

To date, there has been limited use of optimization procedures in musical acoustics. Their application has been confined to the tuning of musical structures to desired frequency regimes. In such cases, the natural optimization function appears to be a function of the required frequencies. However, if one takes a more abstract approach other options can be conceived that are equally valid. The formulation can be further expanded by using optional constraints in the optimization.

This paper compares the results for different optimization functions and constraints for a simple musical structure. The results show that numerous designs are possible depending on the chosen formulation, and that some formulations lead more naturally to better designs.

Date received: July 28, 1999

Copyright © 1999 by the author(s). The author(s) of this document and the organizers of the conference have granted their consent to include this abstract in Atlas Conferences Inc. Document # cadk-57.