Auralization of Three-Dimensional Sound Field in an Acoustic Scale Model Using Laser-Induced Sound Sources

This study presents a system for auralizing a three-dimensional (3D) sound field in a scale-model using laser-induced air breakdown (LIB) of acoustic waves for concert hall acoustic design. LIB solves sound source problems such as pressure level, directivity, duration, and frequency response. The experimental setup uses a YAG laser to generate ultrasonic pulses by LIB. The characteristics of the laser-induced acoustic waves are analyzed, and signal processing techniques for auralization, such as dynamic range extrapolation and air absorption correction, are highlighted. The auralization process of a 3D sound field encompasses microphone placement and encoding/decoding methods using ambisonics. By implementing these techniques in an acoustic scale-model of a concert hall, high-quality auralization of an orchestral performance can be achieved, thus facilitating concert hall acoustic design.