Turku UAS created a tool that can be used to calculate the acoustic quality of an open-plan office

Text: Siiri Welling

Turku University of Applied Sciences' Built Environment research group has published a new tool that can be used to calculate the acoustic properties of an open-plan office. The tool can be found online. The calculator takes account of room dimensions, sound absorbing materials, screen heights and ventilation sound level. 

"We released the first online version of the tool back in 2008, and it was years ahead of its time. After that, the tool received little attention when changes occurred in our operations. Still, it's always been asked back online. That is why we decided to modify the existing tool and update it", says Valtteri Hongisto, the leader of the research group. 

The online tool has been updated to meet the requirements of the latest international ISO 3382-3 standard. The tool is particularly suitable for acoustic designers or other people familiar with acoustics. Manufacturers of acoustic products will also benefit from the new tool, as it can demonstrate the effects of their products. 

"The tool is made to serve acoustic designers globally. With the help of the tool, the expert can very quickly draw conclusions regarding further measures", Hongisto clarifies. 

The tool has been updated during the MOTTI - indoor environment and well-being in offices project . The project will end in June 2024. Hongisto knows that the tool is unique in the world. The tool is based on scientific, peer-reviewed material. In addition, Hongisto has conducted numerous psychological studies in his own research group, which show that high-quality room acoustics increase work efficiency. 

"No one else in the world has created such a tool. This is now openly available to everyone, so anyone who is familiar with the matter can make their own calculations", says Hongisto. 

You can find the acoustics tool here.