NVC can perform a wide range of precision measurements of both acoustic and vibration signals. The acoustic measurements range from standardised noise mapping, to measurements of e.g. transmission loss, to reverberation time to sound intensity measurements. NVC has experience with performing acoustic precision measurement both in air and in water. Our dynamic measurements span from simple response measurements to complex transfer functions using multiple-inputs and multiple outputs where the results of the latter can be employed in a modal analysis.

NVC offers various modelling and simulation techniques, ranging from analytical, numerical to statistical. These techniques are used to evaluate the importance of the various propagation and sound radiation mechanisms and to achieve an in depth understanding of the sound and vibration characteristics of a particular device and to rank the relative importance of the various mechanisms. These modelling techniques are used in combination with experience gained from previous projects as well as experimental data to establish a fundamental understanding of the dynamics, wave propagation, sound radiation and acoustics. Some of the modelling and simulation techniques employed for predicting sound and/or vibration responses include Dynamic Stiffness Method, Statistical Energy Analysis (SEA), Finite Element Method (FEM) and block diagram modelling (Simulink).

The acoustic properties of buildings are important both for privacy as well as for ease of communication and enjoyment of music. NVC can assist with advice on how to achieve good acoustic properties of buildings. NVC can perform noise measurement to identify noise exposure category for future developments as defined in "Planning Policy Guidance 24"(PPG24). NVC’s building acoustic models can be used to identify suitable wall constructions, soundproofing and floating floors construction that are most effective and that will ensure compliance with for example "The Building Regulations Part E". For architectural acoustics, models of layered constructions of porous materials can be tested to identify the construction which sound absorptive characteristics are best suited for a given room.

The sound emitted from products can greatly influence the perception of their quality or their appeal. The noise emitted from existing structures can be analysed and filtered to identify which frequency components to attenuate and which to amplify. An example could be to adjust the exhaust of a motorcycle to produce an aggressive sound but with an overall sound pressure level that still stays within legislative limits.

Increasing vibration and noise levels can be an indication that machinery is not working properly. NVC can assist with advise on monitoring of noise and vibration levels that can be used as an indicator of the ‘health’ of machinery and to schedule maintenance. Detailed analysis of spectral content can be used to diagnose root causes for example unbalance etc. NVC can also provide assistance with dynamic balancing of machinery.