Image Processing Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 11
3D Sound Reproduction by Wave Field
Synthesis
Hyun Lim
Abstract In this chapter, we focus on the spatial audio technique implemented for
3D multimedia content including spatial audio and video. The spatial audio ren-
dering method based on wave field synthesis is particularly useful for applications
where multiple listeners experience a true spatial soundscape while being free to
move around without losing spatial sound properties. The approach can be consid-
ered as a general solution to the static listening restriction imposed by conventional
methods, which rely on an accurate sound reproduction within a sweet spot only.
While covering the majority of the listening area, the approach based on wave field
synthesis can create a variety of virtual audio objects at target positions with very
high accuracy. An accurate spatial impression could be achieved by wave field
synthesis with multiple simultaneous audible depth cues improving localisation
accuracy over single object rendering. The current difficulties and practical limita-
tions of the method are also discussed and clarified in this chapter.
11.1
Introduction
An outline of the concept is given here to help the understanding the background of
the system design. Wave Field Synthesis (WFS) is a sound field reconstruction
methodology for rendering true spatial sound within a given space. WFS is a
practical application of the Huygens
'
Principle [
1
]. According to the principle
when a wave is generated by a point source, all the points on its wave front can
be replaced with a point source array producing of spherical secondary wavelets
[
2
]. In WFS the point source array can be replaced with a continuous active sound
source array and the wave field within a volume can be synthesised. The main
feature of the methodology discussed in this chapter is its ability to automatically
H. Lim (
*
)
Institute for Digital Technologies, Loughborough University in London,
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, London E20 3ZH, UK
e-mail:
H.Lim@lboro.ac.uk
