Dynamical properties of piano soundboards

In pianos, the transfer of energy from strings to soundboard and the radiation of sound are highly dependent on the dynamical properties of the soundboard. In this paper, a numerical study is conducted for various rib configurations, showing that even slight irregularities in rib spacing can induce a strong localization of the soundboard velocity pattern. The effective vibrating area can be further reduced due to the spatial filtering effect of the bridge. Numerical predictions of modal shapes and operating deflection shapes are confirmed by series of measurements made on upright piano soundboards. Simulations of radiated pressure based on measured and calculated soundboard velocity fields show that localization tends to broaden the cone of directivity and to reduce the number of lobes.