Engineering students at Johns Hopkins University have developed an innovative silencer module for leaf blowers, significantly reducing noise pollution by 37%. The team, composed of Andrew Palacio, Michael Chacon, Leen Alfaoury, and Madison Morrison, focused on mitigating the high-pitched whine that is particularly irritating. Their patent-pending design has caught the attention of Stanley Black & Decker, the project’s sponsor, which plans to begin selling the silencer attachment within two years. This breakthrough addresses common complaints from homeowners associations and apartment tenants who often protest the pervasive and disruptive noise of leaf blowers, especially when used early in the morning by landscapers.
The Johns Hopkins team conducted extensive research, testing over 40 prototypes to balance noise reduction with maintaining the blower’s power. Their final design employs a suppressor mechanism similar to firearm silencers, effectively dampening sound without compromising air force. “Our product takes in a full blow of air and separates it,” explained Alfaoury, highlighting the innovation’s ability to maintain functionality while significantly reducing noise. This practical application is poised for mass production, with Stanley Black & Decker anticipating a strong market presence. Nate Greene, a senior product manager at Stanley Black & Decker and Johns Hopkins alum, lauded the project, stating, “This is a scarce and dramatic level of success,” underscoring the potential impact of this student-driven invention.
