A notable application of OFML data is the Acoustics Plug-in. This extension for pCon.planner PRO (version 6 and above) brings together office space planning and the calculation of a room’s acoustic properties.
Functionality
Using the plug-in and an extension of the OFML data, information relevant to acoustic planning can be exported directly from the space planning software, including:
- Room volume
- Surface data (size and position/arrangement of room-enclosing elements and furnishings)
A custom-developed Excel tool allows for a rough calculation of reverberation time. This enables planners to determine the key metric for the acoustic design of office spaces and identify opportunities for improving acoustic comfort.
Alternatively, the data can be imported into the CadnaR acoustic planning software, which can then be used for further calculations and simulations.
The key advantage of the Acoustics Plug-in over conventional acoustic planning tools lies in the integration of furniture layout and acoustic parameter calculations. There is no need to re-enter furniture data, saving both time and effort. Moreover, insights from the preliminary reverberation time calculation can be directly incorporated into the planning process – helping to avoid potential planning flaws from the outset.
Development and Distribution
The Acoustics Plug-in was developed jointly by EasternGraphics GmbH and Akustikbüro Oldenburg. The project was supported and funded by members of the German Office Furniture Industry Association (Industrieverband Büro und Arbeitswelt e. V., IBA).
Distribution of the plug-in is handled by wegscheider office solution gmbh.
