Acoustic design and scale model testing of a multi-purpose auditorium

Good acoustic properties are a fundamental criterion for
evaluating the success of an auditorium. This project analyses the acoustic properties of fifteen existing auditoria and the architec-tural design factors which affect them. On the basis of the analysis, in conjunction with literature studies, criteria for good acoustics are proposed. As a practical application of these criteria, a detailed design proposal is given for a new multi-purpose auditorium based on the Vineyard Steps Principle and incorporating an open-stage design. The proposal attempts to provide a suitable design to satisfy both aesthetic and acoustic requirements.The design was assessed by investigating the behaviour of sound in a 1:50 scale model of the proposed auditorium.
Acoustic and optical measurement techniques were employed. The acoustic tests involved evaluating the RT, impulse response and sound intensity. A high-frequency loudspeaker and an omnidirectional spark were employed as sound sources, and a moveable miniature microphone was used as a receiver. In the optical tests a single laser beam was used as a source, to investigate the paths of reflections.
The results derived from the measurements indicate that the
design is favourable as a multi-purpose auditorium from both the architectural and the acoustic points of view.