The University of Arizona has received a substantial $30 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a groundbreaking Science and Technology Center focused on sound science. This new center, called the New Frontiers of Sound Science and Technology Center, aims to bring together researchers working in the field of topological acoustics.
Topological acoustics is a branch of science that explores the properties of sound in innovative ways, with the potential to greatly enhance fields such as computing, telecommunications, and sensing. Some potential applications include achieving quantum-like computing speeds, reducing power consumption in smartphones, and detecting changes in infrastructure and the environment due to climate change.
The center’s director and project principal investigator, Pierre Deymier, explained the significance of this research by stating that while we are all familiar with technologies like loudspeakers and microphones, the quiet revolution of sound science and technology is underway. The goal of the new center is to tap into the full potential of sound waves and uncover hidden properties that could have a profound impact on various technologies.
The project has a team of co-principal investigators who will work alongside Deymier. They include Sara Chavarria, Chiara Daraio, Andrea Alù, and Massimo Ruzzene. Together, they will spearhead the exploration of topological acoustics and its applications in different fields.
The NSF’s decision to grant $30 million over five years to establish the center showcases their commitment to supporting scientific discovery and enabling researchers to push the boundaries of knowledge. The grant also includes an additional $30 million funding option for the following five years, providing long-term support for this groundbreaking research.
One of the key aspects of topological acoustics is the ability to map sound waves to an abstract multidimensional space called a Hilbert Space. This mapping allows scientists to examine the geometry of sound waves in ways that traditional acoustics cannot. By analyzing sound from this perspective, researchers can manipulate and harness attributes of sound waves that were previously hidden.
As an example, Deymier explained that even small changes to the environment, such as moving or adding objects, can have an impact on sound waves. These changes alter the geometric phase of the sound, which can be observed and understood through topological acoustics. This new approach provides researchers with a powerful tool to explore and exploit the potential of sound waves in various applications.
The applications of this improved understanding of acoustic properties are far-reaching. They could lead to advancements in computing, telecommunications, and sensing technologies. For instance, it could pave the way for faster and more efficient computing methods, reduce power consumption in electronic devices, and enhance environmental monitoring and medical imaging.
Another important aspect of the center’s mission is education and training. As topological acoustics is a relatively new field, the center aims to provide training and education across multiple disciplines to ensure diverse perspectives and promote inclusivity. By establishing a common language among experts from different fields, the research conducted at the center can be effectively applied and shared for the benefit of society.
In addition to their research efforts, the team will write a textbook on topological acoustics and develop digital resources to facilitate learning in this emerging field. They will also launch a Research Experience and Mentorship program to provide underrepresented students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields with valuable mentoring and research opportunities.
The establishment of the New Frontiers of Sound Science and Technology Center positions the University of Arizona at the forefront of this exciting field, preparing students to lead the way in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. By developing a diverse workforce with expertise in topological acoustics, the university aims to tackle society’s challenges while building a better world for all.
The center has formed partnerships with several prestigious institutions, including CalTech, City University of New York, Georgia Tech, Spelman College, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of California, Los Angeles, University of Colorado Boulder, and Wayne State University. This collaboration ensures a multidisciplinary approach to research and facilitates the sharing of knowledge and resources.
With the significant funding from the NSF and the opportunity to explore the untapped potential of sound waves, the University of Arizona’s New Frontiers of Sound Science and Technology Center is poised to make groundbreaking discoveries and drive innovation in various fields. This investment in sound science has the potential to revolutionize technologies and shape the future of computing, telecommunications, and environmental monitoring.
