Blind estimation of reverberation parameters for non-diffuse rooms

Kendrick, P ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0714-183X, Li, FF, Cox, TJ ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4075-7564, Zhang, Y and Chambers, JA 2007, 'Blind estimation of reverberation parameters for non-diffuse rooms' , Acta Acustica united with Acustica, 93 (5) , pp. 760-770.

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Abstract

Reverberation time is an important objective parameter for the acoustics of enclosed spaces. Blind estimation of the reverberation time from naturally occurring sound sources alleviates the logistical constraints of traditional measurement methods, and hence enables non-invasive, in-situ measurements in occupied spaces. A maximum likelihood method using a simple exponential decay model was recently developed. It demonstrated the potential of this approach, but the decay model hinders its accuracy and usefulness in the presence of more complex decays. This paper proposes a new maximum likelihood approach that allows for the multiple decay rates found in real spaces to be more correctly modelled, and thus improves the accuracy of the estimations. Envelopes of received sound signals are segmented and suitable decay phases automatically selected. A maximum likelihood estimation is performed using a multi-decay model whose function adapts to yield the most likely reverberation parameters and decay curve estimates. Simulation, validation and real room tests confirm the improved accuracy; the estimation errors are typically below perceptual difference limens. Thus a new method for blind estimation of reverberation parameters from naturally occurring sound sources, including speech and orchestra music, is achieved.

Item Type:	Article
Themes:	Subjects / Themes > Q Science > QC Physics > QC221-246 Acoustics - Sound Subjects outside of the University Themes
Schools:	Schools > School of the Built Environment Schools > School of Computing, Science and Engineering > Salford Innovation Research Centre (SIRC)
Journal or Publication Title:	Acta Acustica united with Acustica
Publisher:	S. Hirzel Verlag
Refereed:	Yes
ISSN:	1610-1928
Depositing User:	H Kenna
Date Deposited:	17 Dec 2008 11:47
Last Modified:	26 Nov 2018 10:24
URI:	http://usir.salford.ac.uk/id/eprint/440

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