Sound Intensity Prediction System (SIPS) A Noise Complaint Management Tool For Explosive Operations

摘要

The Sound Intensity Prediction System (SIPS) is a range operations tool for the management of noise complaints. It is an acoustic ray tracing computer code employing weather data to determine the locations of both noise enhancements and reductions from the conduct of explosive operations. SIPS was installed at the Utah Test and Training Range, Hill Air Force Base, Ogden Utah in September 1994. Since then 2,400 tons of ordnance, at a rate of 20 tons per operation, has been demolished. There has been only one complaint, which was predicted but overlooked due to lack of experience in output interpretation. SIPS has been employed in conjunction with the Blast Operational Overpressure Model (BOOM) to predict which areas along the Wasatch Front would become agitated by the sound generated during operations. BOOM is an empirical model based on a flat earth, and produces a generalized contour of sound intensity, while SIPS incorporates topography into the predictions. Extensive sound data were taken in populated areas between 1995 and 1997 for model comparison. Upper atmosphere weather data were collected by balloon soundings for model predictions before a decision was made for each operation. Results of the predictions and measurements over this three-year period of intense use are presented.