AURA 4 Module

Version 4.4
AURA 4 Module

AURA is an add-on module for EASE Standard that allows you to perform advanced acoustical investigations. It was developed in cooperation with the renowned Institute for Technical Acoustics at RWTH Aachen University. The AURA name is an acronym for Analysis Utility for Room Acoustics.

 

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STI simulation in a stadium with AURA Mapping.
STI Simulation in a stadium with AURA Mapping

Accurate and Fast Impulse Response Simulations  

AURA is composed of a hybrid Ray Tracing engine, which uses both: the deterministic Image Model (Cone Tracing) and the Stochastic Ray Tracing method, taking advantage of the best they can offer to speed up the computation without compromising accuracy. 

EASE Standard including the AURA module offers the highest quality of calculations, and is the most flexible simulation solution. This combination provides the methods needed to perform acoustical simulations for several different types of venues, such as concert halls, stadiums, train stations, airports, cathedrals and more.

 

Get the Most Out of Powerful Computers

High-end algorithms allow you to use all resources available on modern machines with 64-bit CPUs and several cores, as well as large amounts of RAM and disk space. This guarantees even more reduction of calculation times, which are especially important for large or complex projects.

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High CPU Utilization - 64-bit Engine.png

 

Compute Key Acoustic Parameters According to ISO 3382 Standard 

Evaluate the room or system design based on measures defined in the International Standard on Room Acoustic Measurements ISO 3382. AURA is capable of adding all of the following measures to EASE:

  • Reverberation Time (T10, T20, T30)
  • Early decay time (EDT),
  • Clarity (C80)
  • Definition (D, C50)
  • Center time,
  • Sound strength (G),
  • Echo Criteria for Speech and Music - Dietsch and Kraak
  • Speech intelligibility index (STI) according to IEC 60268-16:2020, with greatly increased accuracy
  • Articulation Loss (% AlCons)
  • Lateral Fraction (LF)
  • Lateral Fraction Coefficient (LFC)
  • Direct and total SPL etc.
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Mapping of the reverberation time (T30) at several points of a theatre.

 

Compute Full Impulse Response Data 

AURA generates full-length impulse response data. While large or complex rooms often limit the capabilities of conventional Ray Tracing and Mirror Image algorithms, AURA’s hybrid approach can simulate reflectograms and impulse responses up to the length of the reverberation time and even longer. Therefore, AURA does not require adding an extrapolated reverberant tail in post-processing.

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Reflectogram computed with AURA.

Take Into Account Scattering Coefficients

The effect of sound scattering by structured surfaces and surface materials is taken into account only with AURA. The Wall Material database module includes a Scattering Wizard that allows real-life approximations of scattering coefficients.

For most projects it is difficult or impossible to determine accurate information about the scattering characteristics of the surfaces. That is why the new default S-curve of scattering coefficients developed in cooperation with RWTH Aachen is important. Results will be closer to reality and less tuning of the scattering coefficients should be necessary.

Due to the computation of full and high-density impulse responses and the consideration of scattering effects, the binaural data generated with AURA is generally more suitable for auralizations with the EARS Module, producing more realistic acoustic impressions.

Discover also our flagship software for the simulation of scattering coefficients of complex structures: AFMG Reflex. The tool is compatible with EASE when it is combined with the AURA module, and its results can be instantly exported to an EASE Wall Material file.

 

Features

The AURA module adds the following main resources to EASE:

  • Hybrid Ray Tracing routines: for high quality calculations at reduced time
    • AURA Mapping: allows mappings according to ISO3382 over Audience Areas, surfaces or at Listener Seats through the computation of an echogram. The echograms and histograms generated with AURA Mapping allow investigation of impulse responses and verification of the simulation parameters.
    • AURA Response: calculates a detailed reflectogram that can be used for reflection analysis and from which a Binaural Impulse response or set of B-Format result files can be computed for auralizations.
  • 64-bit engine: AURA Mapping and AURA Response auralisation results can use all RAM available on 64-bit computers
  • Multi-threading support: on 32- and 64-bit computers with several processor cores it can speed up computations significantly, depending on hardware availability. On 64-bit machines AURA can use all RAM available and up to 128 cores. Users are free to configure their calculation machine according to their project needs and budget.
  • Calculations according to ISO 3382: Early Decay Time (EDT), Reverberation Time (T10, T20, T30), Lateral Fraction (LF) & Lateral Fraction Coefficient (LFC), Clarity (C80), Definition (D, C50), Sound Strength (G), Center Time, Echo Criteria for Speech & Music, Speech Transmission Index (STI) & Articulation Loss
  • Diffuse reflections: scattering coefficients defined for wall materials are taken into account. This leads to a denser and more realistic reflectogram. In addition, AURA includes the scattering wizard for realistic assumption of scattering coefficients as a basis for calculation.
  • Response files in Ambisonics B-Format
Version Comparison

Feature / Version EASE JR EASE Standard AURA Module* EARS Module* InfraRed Module**
Extensive databases
Loudspeaker and Wall Material
     
Complete set of modeling tools      
Vision
Architectural Rendering Module
     
Import and Export
DXF and SKP drawing files
     
Reverberation Times
Eyring and Sabine
     
Standard Mappings
Based on Eyring or Sabine Reverberation Times: 
Direct SPL, %AlCons, STI, RaSTI, Pressure Level, Clarity Ratios, Total SPL, D/R Ratio, Critical Distance, Arrival Times, Loudspeaker Overlap, ITD (Initial Time Delay) Gap, Loudspeaker Aiming
     
EASE View
Open GL Viewer
     
Direct Sound Auralization      
Speaker Base, SpeakerLab and Material Base
Entry and creation of Loudspeaker and Wall Material data
     
Ray Tracing capatibilities      
Ray Tracing Movie module      
Mapping on Room Surfaces      
Local Ray Tracing        
Ray Tracing Impacts
Local reflections study
       
Local Decay Times
Quick check RT at various spots in the room to verify Accuracy with Eyring and Sabine provided RT times
       
Mapping with Reflections        
Acoustical Probe
Measurement microphone simulation:
Reflectograms (EFC/ETC displays), Waterfall displays, Pulse Directionality (hedgehog) displays, Schroeder Reverberation Times, Modular Transfer Function, STI Intelligibility Projections, Impulse Response files
       
Mirror Image
Ray Tracing routine
       
Feature / Version EASE JR EASE Standard AURA Module* EARS Module* InfraRed Module**
Hybrid Ray Tracing routines
Best approach for high quality calculations at reduced Time
       
Full multi-threading support
For high speed calculations of impulse responses
       
64-bit engine
AURA Mapping and AURA Response auralisation results can use all RAM available on 64-bit computers
       

Calculations according to ISO 3382:
Early Decay Time (EDT), Reverberation Time (T10, T20, T30), Lateral Fraction (LF) & Lateral Fraction Coefficient (LFC), Clarity (C80), Definition (D, C50), Sound Strength (G), Center Time, Echo Criteria for Speech & Music, STI & Articulation Loss

       
LF and LFC
Lateral Fraction and Lateral Fraction Coefficient
       
Echograms and Histograms
For detailed investigation of impulse responses
       
Precise calculations
Consideration of Scattering coefficients
       
Response files in Ambisonics B-Format        
Auralization
Full Off-line and Real Time
       
Different noise signal generation        
Mix diverse sources for auralization
E.g. to simulate effects of masking noises
       
Binaural Auralization        
Infrared transmitter/modulator database        
S/N investigation        
Cable length effect        

*  Can be combined only with EASE Standard.          ** Can be combined with EASE JR and EASE Standard.

Which version of EASE should I buy - JR, Standard, or Standard + AURA Module ?

In order to assess if a project can be simulated adequately based on the room´s characteristics it is important to know about the different calculation methods used within the different versions of EASE.

AFMG offers three calculation levels within the product family of EASE – the industry standard electro-acoustical simulation software:

EASE JR

EASE JR uses a statistical approach based on Sabine and Eyring formulas for the computation of the reverberation time. 

This method assumes that the sound field inside the room is diffuse. These kinds of sound fields are more commonly encountered in rooms where the absorption is homogeneously distributed over its surfaces, and where its geometry does not propagate concentration of energy in specific directions.

EASE JR is especially helpful:

  • When the project’s focus is the design of sound systems and the evaluation of the system’s performance in the room. In these cases, this calculation method will provide reliable results.
  • For the simulation of the sound system coverage on wide-open areas.
  • For a rough preliminary investigation of more complex rooms to get an initial overview. This can be in the conceptual or preliminary design phase of a project, when you need to weigh the investment of resources as efficiently as possible and need to quickly get a good assessment of the project´s requirements.
  • When the room behaves statistically and its reverberation time can be measured on site to be entered in the program. In these cases you do not need to worry about uncertainties in the selection of the room’s surface materials, or even about the room geometry data.
  • For superficial evaluation of the behavior of early reflections in the room (up to the 3rd reflection order).

This simplified approach requires the least amount of time and data to obtain answers about the room’s acoustics and the performance of a sound system in the room. It can be seen as a good starting point for performing acoustical and electro-acoustical simulations.

With respect to the room entry in EASE JR there are no feature limitations compared to EASE Standard. One can fully enter or import a model with a complex geometry in EASE JR. That is why large consulting offices often use EASE JR to draw models that will then have its full room response calculated on powerful server computers running EASE Standard and the AURA Module.

Typical room examples / use cases are:
Rooms with little absorption and relatively simple shape, or with geometries that do not propagate concentration of acoustical energy such as conference rooms, typical classrooms, and office spaces with little absorption.
Note: The coverage and performance of the sound system itself can be simulated in any room or open areas.

 

EASE Standard

EASE Standard is able to calculate the impulse response at specific locations in the room by using ray tracing algorithms. You can choose to perform geometrical ray tracing calculations based on the deterministic image model or the stochastic ray tracing method. This way you can get a more accurate picture of not only of the performance of a loudspeakers’ system but also of the general behavior of the sound in a room.

This version of EASE provides an intermediate level of calculations for rooms with more complex geometries and uneven distribution of absorbtion. In these cases you would often be expecting local differences in reverberation or audible echoes.

In addition to the benefits available in EASE JR, EASE Standard is helpful:

  • To design sound systems in acoustically challenging venues where not only the reverberant field plays a role, but also strong discrete reflections.
  • When the assumptions of Eyring and Sabine formulas for the calculation of the reverberation time are not met, and thus ray tracing algorithms are recommended.
  • When advanced acoustical evaluations are the focus in order to analyze and solve acoustical problems.
  • For local analysis of reflections in the room in a manner similar to positioning a measurement microphone on site. This enables you to become aware of obstacles that could remain hidden without enhanced investigation.

In order to keep calculation times within acceptable ranges, ray tracing algorithms are usually employed only to calculate the early part of the room’s impulse response. The so-called “statistical tail” is then computed and used for the later part. This approach is generally sufficient for rooms where you would not expect reflections with considerable energy in this later part of the impulse response.

Typical room/venue examples are:
Stadiums and cathedrals (for reflection analyses only)
Auditoriums, lecture halls, traditional churches - In addition to the examples for EASE JR.

 

EASE Standard + AURA Module

EASE Standard including the AURA module offers the highest quality of calculations, and is the most flexible simulation solution. AURA is composed of a hybrid ray tracing engine, which uses both: the deterministic image model (cone tracing) and the stochastic ray tracing method. This combination provides the methods needed to perform acoustical simulations for several different types of venues.

In addition to the benefits of the previous versions, EASE Standard including the AURA module is helpful:

  • When your daily work might involve design-projects for venues of different types and shapes.
  • When you are interested in computing acoustic parameters according to the ISO 3382 standard.
  • For more direct comparisons with measurements on site.
  • When a large number of sound sources and surfaces are expected in the project.
  • To obtain very detailed information on the acoustical behavior of a room even if it has a complex 3D shape, a large volume, non-homogeneous distribution of materials, or if a long reverberation time is expected.
  • For precise prediction of STI and other parameters based on reverberation time in such projects AURA is highly recommended.
  • For more realistic simulation of reflections by considering the surface scattering coefficients.
  • To obtain more accurate full room impulse responses for later auralization of the room using the EARS module.

The AURA name is an acronym for Analysis Utility for Room Acoustics. Being a 64-bit module that supports multi-threading, AURA can take the most out of powerful modern CPUs with several cores. The engine considerably reduces the calculation times needed for computing full room impulse responses as compared to classical ray tracing algorithms. It is also able to compute responses with much higher realistic density.

Typical room/venue examples are:
Concert halls, stadiums, train stations, airports, cathedrals - In addition to the examples for EASE JR and EASE Standard.

If you are also interested in the benefits the EARS module offers, you will find helpful information in this FAQ:
When it is recommended to use the EARS module to perform auralization?

No matter what version of EASE you work with - it will help you to:

- Obtain professional data assessment and verification. 
- Explore options and evaluate what works and what does not work.
- Eliminate costly mistakes and reduce installation time.
- Meet the requirements for SPL, STI and other demands with minimum effort.

As with any simulation tool, the key to a relevant result is the understanding of the program and theory and the correct entry of data by the user.

Note: This FAQ should give you a rough overview, so that finding the adequate solution for your projects will be easier. As there is a multitude of rooms and venues with specific characteristics and different requirements, you always need a thorough evaluation in advance.

For an overview of the specific features offered within the different versions of EASE and its modules, please have a look at the EASE - Software Versions and Modules website.

End of support AURA 3

Purchase

AURA 4 Module

Purchase

AURA 4 Module

Module for EASE Standard, 1 User Key
The End User License Agreement for EASE 4 applies.

Price
1.500 EUR (net)
Purchase Options

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Educational institutions can apply for special Educational or Research License Offers.

Please note that AFMG's general terms and conditions govern all purchases from us.

If you can only purchase based on your company's terms and conditions, this FAQ provides an overview of possible alternatives.

Upgrade Note

If you purchase an upgrade or module for only a subset of User Keys, we will split your license. Your existing license will remain with a reduced number of User Keys. You will receive an additional new license with the new feature scope for the respective number of User Keys.

General Terms & Conditions

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Version: 1.3
Berlin, December 1, 2021

Additional Sales Terms

Additional Sales Terms

  • Prices do not include VAT. Depending on the origin of the customer and the type of product, VAT might be charged in addition to the net price.

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  • If you purchase an upgrade or module for only a subset of User Keys, we will split your license. Your existing license will remain with a reduced number of User Keys. You will receive an additional new license with the new feature scope for the respective number of User Keys. Does not apply for EASE 5 (1 User per license).

  • Certain license-related services, updating of company data in licensed programs, transfer of licenses etc. may be possible at a service charge of 50 € net.

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EULA

EASE 4 - End User License Agreement

 

AFMG is a worldwide leader in the development of software for the pro-audio industry. AFMG has developed, amongst other programs, and is the sole owner of, the Software EASE, currently available in its version 4.4. (hereinafter the “Software”). The EASE software suite provides sound system designers and acoustic consultants with a set of tools for all aspects of professional practice, from detailed, realistic modeling and simulation of venue acoustics and sound system performance to informative and engaging client presentations, as well as professional data assessment and verification. The Software is provided by AFMG or authorized distribution partners (AFMG’s “Partners”).

This end user license agreement (“Agreement”) governs the legal relationship between AFMG Technologies GmbH, Borkumstr. 2, 13189 Berlin, Germany (“AFMG”), and the commercial end user of the Software (“User”). As AFMG does not sell the Software to private end users, this Agreement does not apply to those. By downloading the Software from AFMG’s or its authorized Partners’ websites, the User unconditionally accepts the terms and conditions of this Agreement.

 

1.    Subject of the Agreement


1.1.    AFMG provides the Software for download from its web portal available at http://downloads.afmg.eu. AFMG provides the User with the number of user keys purchased by the User. Each user key purchased by the User (“User Key”) allows for the User to use the Software on one (1) computer at a time while the installation on several computers is allowed.


1.2.    The establishment and maintenance of a functional hardware and software environment is the sole responsibility of the User. The minimum system requirement for the installation of the Software is Windows 7.


1.3.    AFMG does not provide and has no obligation to provide the User with the source code of the Software.


1.4.    The User shall observe all instructions provided by AFMG for the installation and operation of the Software.

 

2.    Granting of Rights

2.1.    AFMG grants the User a perpetual, non-exclusive, non-sublicensable and non-transferable right for the term of this Agreement to use the Software on a number of computers only. This number corresponds to the number of User Keys purchased from AFMG or AFMG’s Partners.


2.2.    Reproduction of the Software is only permitted insofar as it is necessary for use of the Software in compliance with this Agreement. The User may produce backup copies of the Software as is necessary and in keeping with good practice. Backup copies on removable data storage media must be labeled as such and must bear all copyright and proprietary notices.


2.3.    The User is not authorized to change, adapt, arrange or otherwise modify the Software unless expressly allowed under the applicable copyright law or upon prior written consent by AFMG.


2.4.    The User must not transfer or sublicense the Software to third parties without prior written consent by AFMG.


2.5.    AFMG remains the sole owner of all rights in and to the Software and reserves all rights not granted to the User under this Agreement.

 

3.    Technical Support and Maintenance Updates


3.1.    AFMG shall provide the following technical support services (“Technical Support”) to the User:

•    E-mail support within AFMG’s regular business hours;
•    Telephone support within AFMG’s regular business hours;


Technical Support shall be provided for a period of six (6) months after the date of purchase of the Software.


3.2.    Furthermore, AFMG shall provide the following maintenance support services (“Maintenance Updates”) to the User:


•    Bugfixes for the Software;
•    Adaptations of the Software in the event of changes to the current operating systems;


The scope and provision of Maintenance Updates lies in the sole discretion of AFMG. Maintenance Updates should be provided unless terminated by AFMG. AFMG will notify the User at least one (1) year prior to the termination of Maintenance Updates.


3.3.    Technical Support and Maintenance Updates shall be provided by AFMG free of charge.


3.4.    AFMG is entitled to terminate the provision of support services for good cause. In this event, AFMG shall notify the User about the termination. With the termination of the support services, all rights to use the Software and/or the Upgrade (see Section 4) shall immediately cease and the User is no longer entitled to use the Software and/or the Upgrade.

 

4.    Major Upgrade (EASE Version 5) - Only applicable for licenses purchased from March 18, 2018 until October 04, 2022


4.1.    Every purchase of the Software after March 12, 2018 and before October 04, 2022 and every purchase of additional User Keys for the Software after March 12, 2018 and before October 04, 2022 includes a free license for EASE Version 5 for each purchased User Key.


4.2.    The free license of EASE 5-SE will be delivered on request and can be downloaded from AFMG’s web portal. New EULA and DPP for EASE 5-SE apply.

 

5.    Prices


5.1.    The fees to be paid by the User to AFMG and details regarding the available packages are specified in the price list in the version applicable at the date of the conclusion of this Agreement. The price list is available on AFMG’s website at https://www.afmg.eu/purchase.

5.2.    AFMG shall provide the Software after prepayment by the User. AFMG shall provide the respective download link by e-mail generally within two (2) business days.

 

6.    Limitations of liability


6.1.    AFMG shall not be liable for any claims for damages or any claims for reimbursement of wasted expenses, regardless of the type of violation involved and regardless of the legal grounds, except:

a)    In cases of damage from injury to life, body or health due to negligent breach of duty by AFMG or intentional or negligent breach of duty by a legal representative or a person used to perform an obligation of AFMG;
b)    In cases of other damage arising from a grossly negligent breach of duty by AFMG or from an intentional or grossly negligent breach of duty by a legal representative or a person used to perform an obligation of AFMG;
c)    In cases involving personal injuries or damages recoverable under the German Product Liability Act (Produkthaftungsgesetz), where liability shall be governed by applicable law, regardless of default.


6.2.    Except as provided in Section 6.1. above, AFMG shall not be liable for any damages, including, without limitation, financial losses of any kind.

 

7.    Indemnification


7.1.    The User shall fully indemnify AFMG from all third party claims, which arise from any illegal, culpable use of the Software by the User. This includes in particular patent claims, copyright claims or other commercial intellectual property right claims as well as claims arising from a violation of personal rights or from the unauthorized collection, storage and application of personal data. The User will indemnify and hold harmless AFMG from all legal fees reasonably incurred by AFMG that are attributable to any such claim.


7.2.    In the event the User learns or must learn that the infringement of such right is imminent, the User shall immediately inform AFMG.

 

8.    Trademarks


Unless otherwise agreed between the parties in writing, the User shall only use AFMG’s trademarks in accordance with AFMG’s Trademark Guidelines which can be accessed on AFMG’s website at https://www.afmg.eu/trademarks.

 

9.    Jurisdiction, Governing law, final provisions


9.1.    Any disputes arising from or in connection with this Agreement shall be determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in Berlin, Germany.


9.2.    This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of Germany. For the avoidance of doubt, the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG) does not apply.


9.3.    This Agreement reflects the entire agreement between the parties. The parties have entered into no oral or written collateral agreements with respect to the subject matter hereof. Any terms and conditions of the User do not apply. For the avoidance of doubt, it is expressly agreed between the parties that this Agreement shall prevail over any terms and conditions used or referred to by the User.


9.4.    If any provision of this Agreement shall be held invalid, the validity of the remaining provisions shall remain unaffected thereby. Any invalid provision shall, to the extent permitted by law, be replaced by such valid provision as most closely reflects the commercial intent and purpose of the original provision. The forgoing shall apply respectively if any provision shall have been inadvertently omitted from this Agreement.

Version: 1.3
Berlin, September 18, 2023


AFMG Technologies GmbH Company Data

AFMG Technologies GmbH
Borkumstr. 2
13189 Berlin
Germany

Management:
Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Wolfgang Ahnert
Dr. rer. nat. Stefan Feistel
Registered at:
Berlin-Charlottenburg    HRB 115012 B
VAT-ID:    DE261093044