Improving spatial perception through sound field simulation in VR

A correct and wide coupling of sound to visual applications is still missing in most immersive VR environments, while future and advanced applications tend to demand a more realistic and integrated audiovisual solution to permit complete immersive experiences. Still there is a vast field of investigations till a correct and complete immersive system can reproduce realistic constructions of worlds. Sound fields simulation, although complex and of expensive implementation in the past, is now a potential candidate to improve spatial perception and correctness in CAVEs and other VR systems, but there are serious challenges and multiple techniques to do the job. In this paper, we introduce our investigations in such fields and proposals to improve spatial perception and immersion experience in CAVEs through sound field simulation and correct matching of audio and visual cues. Additionally, a spatial sound immersion grading scale is proposed, to allow for system assessment and comparison of capabilities in delivering spatial immersion.