Design criteria for auditory virtual environments

Abstract

During the last decade a large variety of different systems and technologies for generating auditory virtual environments emerged, ranging from low-cost displays for computer games to high-end interactive and immersive systems comprising real-time head tracking and more or less authentic room simulation. Auditory virtual environment generators employing different technological approaches have been developed for various application areas like navigation aids, teleconferencing systems, virtual control rooms, integrated multi-modal VE generators, or even as tools for psychophysical research. Depending on the particular application, perceptually relevant parameters (e.g., responsiveness, smoothness, and authenticity) will be identified on the basis of psychophysical knowledge. Further, an attempt will be made to derive and quantify adequate physical design criteria. An overview of the available auditory VE generators will be followed by a careful analysis and comparison of the system’s alleged capabilities and technological constraints. These will be checked against the proposed application-dependent design criteria.