Acoustical simulation and optimization in Mosques.

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Bibliographic Details
Title:	Acoustical simulation and optimization in Mosques.
Authors:	Orfali, Wasim¹ worfali@de.moe.gov.sa
Source:	Sound & Vibration. 2025, Vol. 59 Issue 6, p1-25. 25p.
Subjects:	Mosques, Great Mosque (Mecca, Saudi Arabia), Acoustic measurements, Intelligibility of speech, Acoustic reflection, Architectural acoustics, Noise pollution
Geographic Terms:	Mecca (Saudi Arabia)
Abstract:	This article discusses the assessment and optimization of speech intelligibility in the Grand Mosque in Makkah. It is the most iconic Islamic site in the world. Most of the surface material used is marble, which is considered to be a highly sound reflective material. Acoustic measurement of the current conditions (with a surface area of 85,000 m²) was conducted. A virtual model was used to obtain an optimum acoustical solution. The measurement and inspection of ambient acoustical data were conducted using the EASERA measuring tool, and as a result, late energy arrival (after 100 ms) was noticed; this forms echoes and decreases intelligibility. It was also noticed that the measured background noise levels were as high as 90 dB (A). High temperature and humidity degrade the quality of the ambient acoustical environment. A virtual model for the targeted areas (Massa roof and adjacent perimeter) was created using EASE simulation software. Mapping results showed a high level of intelligibility (0.6) and homogenous distribution of the sound pressure level (SPL) (max. variation 9 dB). Loudspeaker columns minimized late energy arrival. The "active" approach improved the ambient acoustical environment in the targeted area and eliminated the necessity of an expensive "passive treatment". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database:	Engineering Source

Description
Abstract:	This article discusses the assessment and optimization of speech intelligibility in the Grand Mosque in Makkah. It is the most iconic Islamic site in the world. Most of the surface material used is marble, which is considered to be a highly sound reflective material. Acoustic measurement of the current conditions (with a surface area of 85,000 m²) was conducted. A virtual model was used to obtain an optimum acoustical solution. The measurement and inspection of ambient acoustical data were conducted using the EASERA measuring tool, and as a result, late energy arrival (after 100 ms) was noticed; this forms echoes and decreases intelligibility. It was also noticed that the measured background noise levels were as high as 90 dB (A). High temperature and humidity degrade the quality of the ambient acoustical environment. A virtual model for the targeted areas (Massa roof and adjacent perimeter) was created using EASE simulation software. Mapping results showed a high level of intelligibility (0.6) and homogenous distribution of the sound pressure level (SPL) (max. variation 9 dB). Loudspeaker columns minimized late energy arrival. The "active" approach improved the ambient acoustical environment in the targeted area and eliminated the necessity of an expensive "passive treatment". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:	15410161
DOI:	10.59400/sv3217