In this dissertation, Kasper investigates how sound zones affect soundscapes. As the world becomes increasingly saturated with noise, managing soundscapes in our daily environments has become essential for our health and well-being. The acoustic environments we inhabit influence us both mentally and physically, with excessive noise being a known source of stress and reduced quality of life. While noise pollution is particularly problematic in hospitals, where it can delay patient recovery, it also affects domestic spaces, contributing to stress and discomfort. On the other hand, sound can have positive effects, enhancing well-being and fostering a sense of connection with our surroundings. Addressing the challenge of regulating sound exposure, sound zone technology offers a novel approach that enables users to control their auditory environment by allowing for the simultaneous reduction of unwanted noise and the enhancement of preferred sounds within distinct spatial regions.

Kasper has utilised mixed methods to investigate user experience and auditory quality of sound zones within both private homes and healthcare environments. Through a combination of field studies, long-term deployments, and controlled laboratory experiments, Kasper provides insights into human-centered aspects of sound zone technology, assessing its capacity to personalize sound exposure and manage both personal and shared auditory experiences.

This research advances knowledge in both sound zone technology and soundscape design, demonstrating that sound zones can significantly shape the acoustic environment, improving auditory experiences across multiple domains. In homes, sound zones offer opportunities for personalization, influencing social interactions and listening habits. In hospitals, they may alleviate environmental challenges, providing a pathway to better patient care and staff wellbeing. Ultimately, the findings of this dissertation provide a framework for the practical implementation of sound zones, contributing to healthier, more comfortable acoustic environments in diverse settings.

All interested parties are welcome. After the defense the department will be hosting a small reception in cluster 5.