The application of advanced computer models to the prediction of sound in enclosed spaces

Computer modelling of acoustics in enclosures has developed into various forms, none of which have yet demonstrated 100% accuracy. This thesis therefore details a study of room acoustic computer modelling. It highlights weaknesses with existing modelling techniques and describes the development and subsequent verification of an improved modelling technique. The study discovers that for accurate prediction of many common room acoustic parameters diffuse reflections should be accounted for in the modelling of all reflection orders. However, many of the problems encountered in existing techniques are found to be caused by the way these diffuse reflections are modelled. An improved modelling technique, referred to as a 'Hybrid-Markov' method, is proposed and developed that combines a conventional hybrid method with a radiantexchange process to model diffuse reflections. Initial verification of the new modelling technique results in similar overall accuracies to existing modelling techniques but solves many of the specific problems discovered. It therefore provides a flexible and robust framework for the future development of computer prediction of sound in enclosed spaces