Simulating sound transmission in building designs
The EU-funded DIVERCITY project has developed a software framework that allows visualisation and simulation of construction design projects to enable improved collaborative working. One of the six software modules of the framework is an acoustics simulation application. The software allows designers and engineers to test online the effect of sounds within a building constructed with different materials. It also enables the testing of the effects of different designs of space and layout of the building. The application takes technical drawings produced by computer aided design (CAD) packages, and generates an acoustic simulation based on modelling the properties of specific sound sources and building materials. Using virtual reality and Internet technology, architects and engineers in remote locations can listen to the acoustic simulation through headphones. They can then modify the design, thickness or materials, online and in real time. Different sound sources, volumes and locations can be simulated, as well as the effect of opening or closing doors and windows. The simulation can also produce the sound as it would be heard from any location or space within the building. The acoustic simulation application is especially suited to applications where soundproofing has a critical impact, such as in the design of offices, hotels and industrial facilities.
