Conference_programme: 18.9 - Archeo-Acoustics
Lecture: Wave-based acoustic modeling of Epidaurus theatre
Author(s): Kaleris Konstantinos, Moiragias George, Kamaris Gavriil, Mourjopoulos John
Summary:
The acoustics of the ancient theatre of Epidaurus have been evaluated in the past via measurements and models. However, the topic still remains open especially with respect to the contributions of the specific architectural elements to the theatre’s excellent acoustic performance. Here, the study focuses on 3 novel aspects for a better understanding of the theater’s acoustics:\n(a) introduces a wave-based acoustics simulation of the Epidaurus theatre based on a flexible but simplified 3D geometric model\n(b) matches temporal and spectral features of measured and modeled responses \n(c) examines the resulting response for varying the model architectural parameters (tier size, cavea slope, etc)\nThe wave model considers direct, reflected, diffracted and mixed reflection - diffraction sound paths for calculating the theatre’s acoustic Impulse Response (IR) in several listening positions, from the front rows of the lower tier to the last rows of the upper tier. \nFor exact tuning of the model, such simulated IR discrete temporal features due to the calculated sound paths are examined through time-distance matching, allowing thus direct comparison to the theatre’s measured IRs and further interpretation of the effects of each of the architectural features of the theatre. In order to precisely match the simulation to measurements, the acoustic behavior of reflecting and diffracting surfaces/edges is incorporated in the model through application of special filters, developed according to the spectral characteristics of the reflection and diffraction features of the measured IRs. From the study it is deduced that sound diffraction plays a major role in the theatre’s acoustics, assisting signal reception especially at the distant positions. \nFinally, altered cavea geometries (resembling other theatres) are also simulated and compared to that of Epidaurus, illustrating the mechanisms that contribute for Epidaurus’ superior acoustic performance.\n
Corresponding author
Name: Mr Gavriil Kamaris
e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Country: Greece
