Noise abatement strategies and modeling approaches for outdoor attractions at theme parks

Abstract

Recent experience in noise abatement approaches and results for a new theme park are presented. Significant contributions from different source components on roller coasters lead to different abatement strategies taken for each. Measured source data will be presented. The relative performance of abatement applied separately to the source and sound path will be discussed, as well as the effects of source directivity. Source and propagation modeling approaches are presented, including how a customized version of a recently developed national noise model for highway traffic was applied for roller coasters and other sources.

Vibroacoustic study of circular cylindrical tubes in roller coaster rails

“…While riders' screams may be the most consistent source of noise, mechanical and structural components substantially influence the noise level 1 . Although sounds are known to contribute to the exciting atmosphere of amusement parks 2 , there has been recent interest in reducing the sounds radiated from roller coasters to address local community concerns 3 .…”