Acoustic blanket

Abstract

An acoustic blanket absorbs acoustic energy and reduces noise in a launch vehicle. The acoustic blanket may be overlaid on a wall of a payload fairing of the launch vehicle. Materials and construction of the acoustic blanket allow for a relatively thin and light sound barrier. The acoustic blanket may comprise vertically-lapped polyester that is overlaid with a lightweight melamine foam. This combination of materials creates an acoustic impedance mismatch between layers that leads to absorption of acoustic energy across a relatively broad range of frequency bands. The acoustic blanket has a particular heat seal pattern that helps absorb noise while allowing the acoustic blanket to be relatively soft and flexible, which is useful for attaching the acoustic blanket to a curved wall of a fairing or other launch vehicle shapes. The acoustic blanket utilizes micro-perforations on multiple sides to allow for movement of air/venting while maintaining the bulk materials inside.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.