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Designing Arrays
Installation and Safety Guidelines Page 7
Subwoofer-Only Array. For arrays requiring only subwoofer modules, the RMAFSM frame may be used with up to 4 subwoofer
modules, while the RMAFLG frame may be used with up to 8 subwoofer modules, in a vertical column with 0-degree pitch. When
the RMAFLG frame is used with Extender Bars, the maximum allowable configuration is 2 subwoofers in the rear position, with 8
subwoofers in the front position, with an overall array pitch of 0 degrees. Note: the RMPULL bracket cannot be used to suspend
subwoofer modules.
Examples of selected array configurations are shown in the Appendix section of this document.
Using Bose Modeler
®
Software for Array Design
RoomMatch array modules allow thousands of array configurations based on room dimensions, acoustics, and level requirements.
Additionally the coverage pattern for lower frequencies varies with the number of modules in the array. Therefore, the use of Bose
Modeler
®
software is recommended for the design of RoomMatch™ arrays in a specific venue. Bose Modeler
®
software is an acoustic
design and analysis program for sound system designers or acoustical consultants. Using a computer-based 3D model of the acous-
tic space and advanced acoustic ray tracing algorithms, Modeler
®
can predict the acoustic performance of loudspeaker systems in a
specific venue using both direct and reflected sound calculations. Modeler
®
software has been a leader in sound system performance
prediction for more than 25 years and was the first software to provide predictions for Sound Transmission Index (STI), a measure of
speech intelligibility and quality.
A new release of Modeler
®
software, Version 6.7, includes an array design tool optimized to help designers construct progressive direc-
tivity arrays using RoomMatch modules. For additional information on using the RoomMatch™ Array Design Tool, please refer to the
User Manual for Modeler
®
Version 6.7 (or higher).
Working Load Limits and Certifications
The structural ratings for all Bose RoomMatch array module loudspeakers and rigging hardware accessories are based on actual tests
in which each component is stressed to mechanical failure. A summary of these test results provided in the document, “RoomMatch
Test Certification of Compliance,” which is available for download at pro.Bose.com. The results can be expressed in either ultimate
break (yield) strength, or as working load limits (WLL) with a specified design safety factor. Bose has chosen to use WLL ratings for
all loudspeaker components and rigging hardware. The WLL is defined as the ultimate break strength divided by the safety factor. For
example, if a component has ultimate break strength of 10,000 pounds, the WLL rating would be 1,000 pounds with a 10:1 safety fac-
tor. This rating provides a margin of safety to accommodate reduced strength from normal wear and dynamic loading. For components
used to suspend loudspeakers above audience areas, most local regulatory agencies and building codes specify a required safety fac-
tor ranging from 5:1 to 10:1 globally. RoomMatch array module loudspeakers and rigging hardware accessories have WLL ratings based
on using a 10:1 safety factor. It is the responsibility of the loudspeaker installer to verify that all applicable local, state, or national safety
regulations are fully met.
All structural testing of Bose RoomMatch™ loudspeakers and components is conducted by an independent testing laboratory and
certified by independent structural and mechanical Professional Engineers. The working load limit testing follows the guidelines of ANSI
E1.8 – 2005, Entertainment Technology Loudspeaker Enclosures Intended for Overhead Suspension – Classification, Manufacture and
Structural Testing. For additional information regarding the test procedures and results, please refer to the document, “RoomMatch Test
Certification of Compliance,” which is available for download at pro.Bose.com.
Overview of Structural Ratings for Individual Array Elements
There are two independent working load limit (WLL) ratings that must be used together in order to define the overall structural perfor-
mance of individual elements (loudspeaker modules). The first is the WLL for each individual rigging point, which is based on testing
the ultimate break strength of each connection point on the rigging hardware. The second WLL rating is calculated by analyzing the
combined forces from all of the rigging points acting on the enclosure as a whole. The smaller of these two ratings must be used to
determine the WLL rating for an individual array element used in a specific array configuration.
The following table provides the WLL for each RoomMatch™ module and rigging accessory, based on a per-rigging point calculation.
For example, the table lists the WLL for the Small Array Frame as 790 pounds. Using a 2-point suspension of the array, the frame would
be rated to support a total column weight of 1580 pounds, with a 10:1 safety factor. Additionally, the RMS215 subwoofer module con-
tains threaded inserts, which are designed for use with custom (contractor supplied) rigging and suspension methods. For the RMS215
subwoofer module, the WLL is listed for both the threaded inserts and the optional RMSFLY side-plate rigging kit.
