Auracle is a voice-controlled, networked sound instrument that enables users to control a software synthesizer with their voice and to interact with each other in real time over the Internet. This paper discusses the historical background of the project, beginning with Neuhaus' 'virtual aural spaces' in the 1960s and relating them to Barbosa's conception of 'shared sonic environments'. The architecture of the system is described in detail, including the multi-level analysis of vocal input, the communication of that analysis data across the network, and the mapping of that data onto a software synthesizer.Not only is Auracle itself a collaborative, networked instrument, but it was developed through a collaborative, networked process. The project's development mechanisms are examined, including the use of existing tools for distributed development, the creation of custom development applications, the adoption of extreme programming practices, and the use of Auracle itself as a means for communication and collaboration among developers.
As offshore wind energy development increases across the eastern seaboard, there is a growing need to determine the short and long-term effects of activities associated with this development on marine ecosystems. One area of particular importance is the potential effects of underwater noise on marine life. To better characterize underwater sound levels associated with geotechnical activities, a hydroacoustic measurement program of geotechnical survey activities was completed in support of Dominion’s Virginia Offshore Wind Technical Advancement Program. An important component of this project was the advancement of new technologies and the use of best available science to collect data for more accurate impact determinations. The overall goal of the hydroacoustic measurement program was to field-verify the projected acoustic impacts during geotechnical activities. This new insight will support both decision making in the execution of offshore wind site characterization surveys, and reduce the potential for future impacts. Measurements were made using a combination of equipment including a cabled real-time hydroacoustic analysis systems and fixed autonomous static recorders. Upon conclusion of the hydroacoustic survey, data were downloaded and directly correlated with daily activity logs from the vessels used in performing the offshore geotechnical work thereby providing the means to coordinate acoustic events.
Auracle is a networked sound instrument controlled by the voice. Users jam together over the Internet using only a microphone. Throughout the development process, the authors experimented with different approaches to interpreting vocal input and facilitating user interaction. This paper outlines some of the tools used to implement and evaluate those ideas, simulate the wide range of activities of Auracle users, and facilitate the development process.
The regulations governing underwater noise from offshore wind farm development in the United States have not been as explicit as in other countries. The Block Island Wind Farm represents the first case study. In this context, it is important to disseminate information about the relevant noise sources, address evolving guideline criteria, and develop noise measurement and analysis procedures to address regulatory reporting requirements. Tetra Tech led the hydroacoustic monitoring program which occurred in two distinct stages. The first involved short-term monitoring of the installation of the initial wind turbine generator foundation using both mobile real-time and static monitoring techniques used for daily reporting. Long-term monitoring of the remaining four foundations with static recorders documented the inherent variability in the data set. Received sound levels measured at pre-determined distances were used to assess site-specific propagation characteristics and to verify ranges to the relevant sound exposure thresholds. This involved the evaluation of multiple metrics including the apparent sound source level of pile-driving activities and the confirmation of the Exclusion and Monitoring Zone established to ensure the protection of marine life. All of the monitoring objectives were met, including the field verification of modeling results established during the environmental permitting process.
Underwater acoustic monitoring addressed at assessing compliance with regulatory fish criteria, was performed in the Kennebec river. The acoustic criteria was based on sound pressure levels, although particle velocity is also an area of increasing concern. The velocity and direction shifts of the strong currents created unique challenges in the study design, deployment and data processing of hydroacoustic monitoring equipment. Both floating and static systems were needed to capture sound pressure levels at multiple river locations.
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