Computer graphics visualization for acoustic simulation

Abstract

Computer simulations can be used to generate the spatial and temporal data describing the acoustical behavior of performance halls, but typically the analytical results are difficult to assimilate and compare. By using computer graphics to display the multi-dimensional data, substantially greater amounts of information than that conveyed by standard techniques can be communicated to the designer. This allows designs of different acoustical spaces to be tested, evaluated, and compared.An example comparing the acoustical behavior of three different concert halls demonstrates these techniques and allows for the simultaneous assimilation of much of the information necessary to evaluate the acoustical nature of a space. The use of three-dimensional images, color, animation and abstract representation allows for the comprehension of the complex results of a scientific simulation. Specifically, the simultaneous display of particular icons familiar to the discipline enabled the simultaneous presentation of up to twelve parameters.From a more general point of view, the procedures demonstrate how computer graphics can be utilized for the portrayal of multi-dimensional time dependent data. The visualization techniques are potentially useful for the display of three-dimensional vector fields in many scientific and design applications.