Siemens to Utilize Digital Twin Technology for the First Time to Simulate Acoustics at the Großes Festspielhaus

PRESS RELEASE – Siemens has developed a groundbreaking technology that is set to revolutionize the world of event spaces. The company has created a digital twin that can accurately replicate and simulate the acoustics and structure of large venues. This cutting-edge technology, known as Sound of Science, will be unveiled for the first time at the prestigious Großes Festspielhaus – the Large Festival Hall – during the Salzburg Festival.

With the introduction of Sound of Science, event organizers will have the ability to virtually explore and experiment with different spatial configurations to optimize acoustics. For example, they can assess how the addition of acoustic panels will impact the overall sound quality. Furthermore, orchestral formations on the stage can be tested and arranged in advance, leading to significant cost and time savings.

Siemens’ digital twin technology allows for the precise simulation of echos and reverberations in a 3D model, enabling a detailed analysis of how sound waves travel through a room. This level of simulation and accuracy opens up a world of possibilities for the cultural and creative industries.

Prof. Dr. Stephan Frucht, Artistic Director of the Siemens Arts Program, commented on the groundbreaking technology, stating, “Digital twins are not just changing the way companies operate on a daily basis, but they are also unlocking new opportunities for the arts and creative sectors. With Sound of Science, we are not only planning future stage productions more efficiently, but we can also simulate them acoustically in advance. We are thrilled to have the Salzburg Festival as a longstanding partner in this innovative journey.”

The Sound of Science application will be made available to selected partners in the cultural sector free of charge as a demonstration. While there are currently no plans to commercialize the application, Siemens will offer its simulation solutions for purchase. The Großes Festspielhaus at the Salzburg Festival will be the inaugural large event space to feature the Sound of Science technology, with plans to extend the digital simulation to concert halls in Germany and England.

Attendees of the Salzburg Festival will have a unique opportunity to experience the application firsthand by using VR glasses at the festival’s opening on July 20. This immersive experience promises to provide a glimpse into the future of event planning and acoustics.

Dr. Kristina Hammer, President of the Salzburg Festival, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Siemens and the potential advancements in technology. “Siemens and the Salzburg Festival share a commitment to excellence and innovation. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this technological development and look forward to the endless possibilities that Sound of Science will bring to the future of event planning.”

The simulation solutions used are part of Siemens Simcenter, a technology that has been a cornerstone of the company’s operations for over 15 years. Originally developed for industrial applications such as optimizing vehicle interiors and reducing noise pollution, Simcenter now offers a sophisticated tool for acoustical modeling in event spaces. By combining impulse response measurements and ray tracing, Simcenter can accurately model and analyze the unique acoustic properties of each venue.

Siemens’ partnership with the Salzburg Festival spans three decades, with the company serving as the festival’s main sponsor since 1999. The Siemens Festival Nights on Kapitelplatz square have become a staple of the festival, providing over a million visitors with the opportunity to experience past and current productions on a large LED screen. Additionally, Siemens technology is integrated into several of the festival’s venues for building automation, security, and acoustics.

Conclusion:

The introduction of Siemens’ Sound of Science technology marks a significant milestone in the world of event planning and acoustics. By merging cutting-edge simulation solutions with innovative digital twin technology, Siemens is paving the way for a new era of immersive and efficient event experiences. The collaboration with the Salzburg Festival underscores the potential for technology to enhance creativity and innovation in the arts. As the digital twin continues to evolve and expand to new venues, the possibilities for creating unforgettable events are endless. With Sound of Science, the future of acoustics has never sounded so promising.