For practical reasons, most measurements of acoustics in ancient Greek theatres are made without an audience. Under those conditions much of the sound reaching the listener is in the form of reflections from the curved stone risers that form the seating. These reflections would be attenuated or eliminated by the audience. Let´s explore the Epidauros […]
research
Listening tests: linking objective room acoustic parameters with subjective human perception
Daniel de la Prida from Carlos III University in Madrid presented about his study into listening tests. He focussed on tests that can be used for linking objective room acoustic parameters with subjective human perception. Such tests have been in use for many years. However, different research usually employs different test protocols, with different operational […]
Acoustic metrics for innovative learning environments
Acoustics included as part of a major education research project Amanda Robinson has been a key researcher gathering acoustic metrics for innovative learning environments and she presented the findings at EIAS2023 this year. Traditional acoustic parameters are often used to describe the environment within learning environments. These include metrics such as ambient sound levels, reverberation […]
Optimal reverberation time in classrooms (Italian schools)
Arianna Astolfi Associate Professor at Politecnico di Torino, Department of Energy Torino, Italy has worked with acoustics since 2000. Optimal reverberation time in classrooms in Italian schools is her latest initiative. The study background and scope Arianna shared her thoughts and findings from a large study of Italian classrooms. This was specifically motivated to see […]
The effect of sound absorbers and diffusers in ordinary public rooms
Introduction Emma Arvidsson, Researcher and PhD ”Acoustic Design with Regard to Human Perception” presented her recent Phd study at EIAS2023. She focused on the objective and subjective aspects of acoustic design in ordinary rooms. Aiming to optimize room acoustics and examining the effects of different sound absorbers and diffusers. ‘Acoustic design plays a crucial role […]
Despite meeting the regulations, satisfying sound environments are not achieved in Danish hospitals
A “must-hear” presentation on satisfying sound environments for all legislators, architects, acoustics engineers, builders and hospital staff. This is how we would describe the presentation entitled “A holistic assessment of sound environment in hospitals” by Hannah C. W. Jakobsen (Ramboll Denmark) during the Ecophon International Acoustics Seminar 2023. Satisfying sound environments The presentation summarized a […]
Sensory design for age and dementia-friendly environments
‘Show of hands, who believes buildings can make you sick?’ ‘Show of hands, who believes buildings can make you feel better?’ At EIAS 2023 Laura Arpiainen (M.Arch. Professor, Health and Wellbeing Architecture at Aalto University, Finland) spoke about sensory design, focusing on age and dementia friendly environments. When thinking about buildings for healthcare, the first […]
New Finnish acoustic standard paves the way
Finland paves the way for clear and science-based guidelines worldwide, with its revised standard for acoustic environments in buildings. Developed by the country’s leading acousticians, the standard is established in the business and among policymakers. In 2017, Finland’s Ministry of the Environment issued a decree on the Acoustic Environment of Buildings. Several parts of the […]
Acoustical effects of face masks on Speech Perception
The recent pandemic gave rise to the use of face masks, however, most people found it difficult to wear a mask. As per recent research in 2020 and 2021: However, the global rise in cases proved that masks helped to reduce the cases and prevent fatalities. It also gave mental satisfaction to professionals returning to […]
Expert interview: Prof. Laura Arpiainen
Laura Arpiainen is the first professor in Finland in Health and Wellbeing Architecture, at Aalto University in Helsinki. She has led a research project that has designed new, flexible living solutions for the elderly with mild memory disorders. The acoustic design was one of the focus areas and resulted in the development of an acoustic […]
