A comparison of computational models for predicting speech intelligibility and speech privacy

Abstract

Speech intelligibility (SI) and speech privacy (SP) are very important considerations in the design of classrooms, auditoria, conference rooms, and offices. Predictions of SI and SP are usually done with simple analytic models using Sabine/Eyring theory or CAD programs such as CATT, EASE or ODEON. In this paper we will compare the predictions of speech intelligibility index (SII), speech transmission index (STI), and privacy index (PI) using analytic theories of Sabine/Eyring and a simplified acoustic radiosity theory, a simple computational model using acoustic radiosity and CAD prediction using CATT acoustics. Predictions will be compared with the results of a similar study by Bistafa and Bradley [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 109(4), 1474–1482 (2001)].