Prediction and auralization of construction site noise

Abstract

This paper presents recent developments in auralization techniques applied to exterior noise assessment and control. The developments are part of an integrated software application that implements both the prediction and the auralization of construction site noise. The prediction of noise levels is based on a fast 2D beam tracer and standardized acoustic propagation models with added diffraction on vertical edges. The auralization module implements a real time restitution algorithm allowing user interactive navigation as well as source configuration. Three types of sources are supported: point sources, line sources and moving sources. The paper describes the signal processing methods used to obtain realistic and calibrated 3D audio rendering of the computed acoustic paths between sources and receiver. A special emphasis is placed on the treatment of path interpolation techniques during listener motion. The specific case of moving sources is also discussed.