Acoustic Analysis Comparison and Model Optimization of Chinese Ancient and Modern Oboes

Abstract As a traditional Chinese double-reed woodwind instrument, the Suona has evolved through representative forms such as the Tang Bili and Qing Sunaiyi. However, systematic studies on its acoustic characteristics across historical evolution remain scarce. This work takes the Qing Sunaiyi and the modern standard Suona as samples, and adopts an integrated approach combining three-dimensional scanning, finite element simulation, and intelligent optimization. High-fidelity axisymmetric finite element models are built based on historical records and scanning data. The two instruments are compared in far-field sound pressure level, directivity, central-axis pressure distribution, and internal sound field, followed by parametric optimization of the modern Suona bell profile. Results show that the Sunaiyi has a longer tube and gentler bell flare, leading to higher overtone frequencies and unstable high-order overtones. In contrast, the modern Suona, with a shorter tube and steeper bell flare, achieves a lower fundamental overtone, smoother far-field attenuation, and more concentrated directivity. Spectral measurements in a professional studio agree well with simulations, validating the numerical models. A surrogate-assisted K‑means clustering particle swarm optimization algorithm with diversity control (SAPSO‑BCM) is proposed and coupled with COMSOL for global optimization of bell curvature to maximize far-field sound pressure level. This work pioneers the integrated three‑dimensional scanning, FEM, and intelligent optimization workflow for Suona acoustics, quantifying the influence of bell geometry on radiation performance and offering a generalizable engineering method for traditional wind instruments.