Shaw Industries is one of the world’s largest flooring manufacturers, with a major product line based on cushion-backed carpet tiles. Working with Shaw, FISH Innovation developed a modified construction that significantly enhances mid-frequency absorption without altering the standard form factor or manufacturing workflow.

Using analytical and numerical modelling, it was shown that introducing precision perforations through the rigid backing can generate a strong acoustic impedance match, unlocking substantial absorption in the frequency range associated with speech.

Laboratory results showed mid-frequency absorption α ≈ 0.45—more than double that of a conventional carpet tile. In real spaces, this translates to fewer secondary acoustic treatments.