Sound Synthesis, Propagation, and Rendering

The book "Sound Synthesis, Propagation, and Rendering" provides a comprehensive overview of research on sound simulation, motivated by various applications. It addresses the generation of sound by vibrating objects and its propagation through media such as air or water before it is perceived by a listener. Sound is a crucial sensory impression that is significant in many fields, including acoustics research, which has been tackling the challenges of sound simulation for six decades. The beginnings of this research were often driven by the design of concert halls and theaters with optimal acoustic properties. Additionally, other applications such as noise reduction and sound design in urban planning, construction, and the automotive industry are also discussed. The book highlights how realistic sound effects can enhance the sense of presence in virtual environments or games by providing important cues such as the direction and spatial size of the sound source.