Finnur Pind is a co-founder and CEO of Treble Technologies. At EIAS 2023 he presented the background of wave-based virtual acoustics and the merits of what they claim to be a paradigm shift within the area of virtual sound. An acoustic design platform called Treble.
Wave-based virtual acoustics
The core of the platform, as described, is a simulation engine combining a wave-based approach for the low-mid frequencies and a phased geometrical acoustics engine for the high frequencies. Finnur explained that neither approach is new, nor the idea of combining them. But Treble Technologies has been able to implement it in such a way that it is both fast and accurate. And they are now bringing it to the market.
It’s primarily the ability to add the wave-based approach for the low-mid frequencies, up to approximately 1000 Hz that makes this platform perform significantly better than other similar tools available today. Convincing results were presented when it comes to the accuracy of the simulations. Also for quite challenging geometries. Finnur explained how this advantage, the ability to accurately model acoustic phenomena such as diffraction, interference and phase, can be crucial factors. Especially for small-medium sized spaces, typically found in schools, workplaces and hospitals.
Auralizations of the design
Further, it was also presented how the acoustic design platform is not only a tool for making simulations, and predicting the acoustic performance. But is also a tool to generate auralizations of the design. And although the presented auralizations were pre-prepared, Finnur explained that the tool can do these calculations in an efficient (fast) way.
There were some questions and concerns from the audience regarding the input data required. It was explained that Treble has quite a comprehensive database already today. But it will have to be expanded even further going forward. Another benefit, as presented, is the “live-link” integration into 3D modelling tools like SketchUp and Rhino. Which allows for an efficient workflow. As does the fact that the tool is entirely cloud-based.
It can also be mentioned that during the conference there was a possibility to try the tool “hands on”, and this was very much appreciated. There was an obvious interest for the tool, and many interesting discussions around it.
Watch Finnur´s presentation here, and enjoy the interview with Finnur here!
Have a look at the EIAS webpage here!
