Spatial Sound Rendering – A Survey

Abstract

Simulating propagation of sound and audio rendering can improve the sense of realism and the immersion both in complex acoustic environments and dynamic virtual scenes. In studies of sound auralization, the focus has always been on room acoustics modeling, but most of the same methods are also applicable in the construction of virtual environments such as those developed to facilitate computer gaming, cognitive research, and simulated training scenarios. This paper is a review of state-of-the-art techniques that are based on acoustic principles that apply not only to real rooms but also in 3D virtual environments. The paper also highlights the need to expand the field of immersive sound in a web based browsing environment, because, despite the interest and many benefits, few developments seem to have taken place within this context. Moreover, the paper includes a list of the most effective algorithms used for modelling spatial sound propagation and reports their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, the paper emphasizes in the evaluation of these proposed works.

Robotic Coverage Path Planning for Ultrasonic Inspection

“…Generally, strategies for numerically evaluating sound propagation can be grouped into wave-based and geometric-based approaches: The underlying wave equation can be solved by classical methods, e.g., the finite element method and boundary element method [20,21]. This is especially useful to evaluate low frequency effects, such as diffraction.…”

Extending X3D Realism with Audio Graphs, Acoustic Properties and 3D Spatial Sound

“…A detailed review of these methods is beyond the scope of this paper. However, a detailed overview is available by [Lakka et al 2018].…”

Designing a Virtual Reality Platform to Facilitate Augmented Theatrical Experiences Based on Auralization

“…Therefore, it is necessary that the sound field in a 3D space be computed, and thus from the physical/algorithmic point of view, sound propagation techniques must be used to simulate the sound waves as they travel from each source to the listener by taking into account the interactions with various objects in the scene [12]. In other words, spatial sound rendering in a VE goes far beyond traditional stereo and surround sound techniques through the estimation of physical attributes which are involved in sound propagation [13]. Phenomena such as surface reflection, diffusion, reverberation, as well as wave phenomena (interference, diffraction) can be included in the formation of spatial impressions within a virtual 3D scene.…”