As the warm air rises to the top, it unloads heat into the shell. The heat then radiates back down the shell thus generating only a two to four degrees variance in temperature from the bottom to the top of the dome.
Acoustic baffles must be designed and hung as to allow natural airflow while still providing sound absorption. The sound baffles will stop side to side sound better than most acoustical materials.
The simplest form of acoustical treatments that can be used without interrupting natural airflow are clouds — hung as a ceiling. Clouds absorb sound on the lower surface, then trap it on the upper surface while maintaining natural airflow. Clouds can be hung at various levels or at angles to provide artistic treatment.
When a total acoustical ceiling or fixed ceiling is used in a structure, natural airflow is prohibited. Air must be forced through the ceiling, against the domeís shell by mechanical means, such as an air-handler or a fan system. Maintaining the airflow is a major part of the domeís energy efficiency.
