Broadband Multichannel Active Noise Control for an Active Double-Glazed Partition System

Project Description

Background
This project was initiated with a Montreal-based industrial partner specializing in double-glazed office partitions. These partitions typically achieve a sound reduction index of 30 to 45 dB, but performance can fall below 20 dB at low frequencies, compromising speech privacy. Active noise control, using loudspeakers, error microphones and real-time electronics integrated within the glazing cavity, can close this gap.

Project objective
Design, develop and experimentally validate a fully integrated active noise control system embedded in a double-glazed partition. The project builds on a first functional prototype (2025) based on an original error-microphone compensation method. It aims to improve performance and robustness, independently of the number of loudspeakers and microphones, with control electronics that fit inside a commercial partition and no on-site calibration at installation.

PhD tasks
- Optimize loudspeaker and microphone placement using numerical simulation (COMSOL Multiphysics)
- Develop the integration of the active control solution within the partition
- Improve error-microphone compensation using machine learning
- Experimentally validate the active partition in a transmission-loss test facility

Candidate profile
Master's degree in acoustics, mechanical engineering, applied physics, signal processing or a related field. Strong background in vibro-acoustic modeling (COMSOL Multiphysics). Interest in real-time controller prototyping, multichannel adaptive FD-FxLMS algorithms (MATLAB/Simulink) and machine learning. Experience with transmission-loss or reverberation chamber measurements and acoustic data analysis (MATLAB). Excellent French (spoken and written) and proficient scientific English.

Environment
CRASH-UdeS, one of the largest acoustics research centers in North America. Multidisciplinary team (mechanical, electrical and computer engineering), co-supervision by two professors, direct industrial partnership. Fully funded PhD scholarship for 3 years.

How to apply
Send to philippe.micheau@usherbrooke.ca: 
- cover letter
- two-page CV
- university transcripts
- contact information for two references and;
- any relevant material (publications, internships, projects).

Funding offered

Yes

Partner(s)

Partenaire industriel de Montréal (cloisons de bureau à double vitrage)

The last update was on 13 October 2026. The University reserves the right to modify its projects without notice.