Features of interlaboratory comparison methods when measuring vibroacoustic parameters

Abstract

External quality control in the form of interlaboratory comparisons (ILCs) is an important criterion of the testing laboratory competence. The study was aimed to summarize the approaches to developing objects for proficiency testing (OPT) based on physical simulation of acoustic noise sources, airborne ultrasound, vibration, and the practice of their use for ILC. Analysis of the OPT effectiveness based on physical simulation of factors, the test benches (TBs), was performed based on their testing and certification results, as well as on the results of appropriate ILCs. The results of using TB as OPT are considered for the following factors: acoustic noise, airborne ultrasound, and vibration. When measuring acoustic noise, TB played back the acoustic noise record with high stability. ILC involving measurement of airborne ultrasound was performed the same way, however, the frequency of the acoustic signal being reproduced was in the range of 11–22 kHz. TBs, based on a manual mechanized tool and a platform equipped with electromechanical agitator, were developed for ILC involving the measurement of local and general vibration. Stability of vibration generated was provided by means of the automated system for maintaining the set level with feedback and proportional integral derivative (PID) controller. When arranging and performing ILCs involving measurement of noise and vibration, a crucial role is played by the methods developed specifically for ILCs, allowing one to take into account all the conditions that affect the measurement results.