Lost in translation, easing communication through the use of digital modeling

Abstract

Daily communication between Acoustician, Architect, facility users, building owners, and consultants paves a road riddled with several opportunities for miscommunication. Although many design team members have honed their auditory senses, many of us communicate most effectively through the use of visual graphics and diagrams. Computer aided design, including the use of moving images, has not only become a tool for analysis but also allowed for more effective communication to educate and influence important design decisions. Parametric modeling tools allow consultants to develop analysis and communication tools early on and throughout the design of architectural elements. Two recent applications of the digital modeling process include the new orchestra shell at the Lyric Opera in Chicago and a 1000 Seat Convening Hall. Digital tools used to model and analyze acoustic performance have been imperative while working through the challenges embedded within each project. In both cases, these tools have helped ov...