Human Auditory Localization Performance in Azimuth
Abstract
The Harry G. Armstrong Aerospace Medical Research Laboratory developed a unique research auditory localization facility for special, in-depth investigations of human auditory localization phenomena. A study was conducted in the facility to measure localization performance with three types of acoustic signal in azimuth; (1) natural, free-field acoustic cues heard with the ears uncovered, (2) simulated cues recorded at the ears of an acoustic manikin and presented over headphones, and (3) acoustic cues generated by an electronic auditory localization cue synthesizer and presented over headphones. Purposes of the study were (1) to evaluate relative localization accuracy and response time with the free-field, simulated and synthesized cues, (2) to examine the feasibility of localization of synthesized cues over headphones, and (3) to establish data base of human auditory localization performance with these signals. Results across the three conditions averaged about 5 to 6 degrees in accuracy (magnitude error) and 3.5 to 4.5 seconds in response time. Localization performance with simulated and synthesized cues was essentially equivalent to natural (free-field) cues, demonstrating the capability of the localization cue synthesizer to present realistic directional sounds in azimuth.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA265563
Entities
People
- German Valencia
- Mark A. Ericson
- Richard L. McKinley
Organizations
- Armstrong Laboratory