On the subtraction method for in-situ reflection and diffusion coefficient measurements

Abstract

The subtraction method is a technique critical to several important acoustic measurements. It involves subtracting a reference measurement including only direct sound from one with direct sound and a reflection, to isolate the reflection. The process is very sensitive to environmental conditions, such as changes in temperature, air movement, and microphone positioning. These variations cause small time differences between the reference and reflection measurements, which prevent complete subtraction of the direct sound; the residual direct sound then pollutes analysis of the isolated reflection. This work evaluates methods to compensate for differences to achieve minimal interference from the residual direct sound.