MSI-DFAT®: Since 1999
Spacecraft Acoustical Testing

The Maryland Sound International-Direct Field Acoustic Test (MSI-DFAT®) Company is a sister company of Maryland Sound International (MSI), which is one of the world’s leading production companies. MSI expanded into spacecraft testing in 1999 performing acoustic tests at Orbital Sciences and has since completed over 160 tests for many satisfied clients. MSI-DFAT® has created an effective and unique modular method for the purpose of acoustic testing aerospace structures and related flight equipment.

Development of the MSI-DFAT® System Timeline

2018

Introduced Rectangular Control and operational improvements



Further improved spatial uniformity and coherence levels

Allows up to 24 control mics

2009

Recommended Practice

DFAT® Subcommittee (DTE400) of the IEST HIAT (DTE040)

Contact Albert Lee or Dick Foss at LMSSC

2000

BSAT/COTE

MSI equipment, manual equalizer control to 144dB

1998

Feasibility
Demonstration

Renkus-Heinz equipment, 134dB

Failed 6.5” horns & 1” compression drivers due to overheating/5-8 sigma peaks

2012

NASA Handbook

Ali Kolaini at NASA/JPL

2003

Developed
Spectral-Dynamics
SISO Controller

Narrow-band random control applied to acoustic spectrum

Single (average) Input, Single Output (drive)

All random test features available for acoustic testing

1999

TSX-5 & ACRIM Testing

MSI equipment, manual equalizer control to 134dB

1994

Component and subsystem testing at MSFC begins

2011

Added drive
matrix switch

Sound field shaping

Narrow-band tones at discrete locations

2002

Added Digital DAQ System

NI LabView and Sound & Vibration Tool Set

1999

Capability Demonstration

Modified Renkus-Heinz equipment

Employed peak compression & improved cooling to achieve 138dB

Failed 6” horns & 1” compression drivers due to overheating at 144dB

1966

Direct Field Acoustic Testing first proposed for launch vehicle and large component testing

2010

Developed
Spectral-Dynamics
MIMO Controller

Narrow-band random control applied to acoustic spectrum

Multiple Input/ Multiple output (drive)
Improved spatial uniformity & lower coherence

All random test features available for acoustic testing

2000

GSFC Control
System Test

Norsonic 731 Spectrum Shaper & 830 RTA used for closed-loop control

1998

NASA/JPL QUICKSCAT spacecraft

Testing performed at Ball Aerospace using JBL equipment to 135dB OSPL

Call MSI-DFAT Today at (410)448-1400 or Send Us a Request for more information on how we can assist on your next Direct Field Acoustic Test.