Quantitative prediction of sound environment is very useful for architectural/environmental designing and planning. In order to establish assessment methods on room acoustics, noise propagation, acoustic material performance etc., this section performs numerical and experimental studies through a couple of processes such as theoretical modeling, numerical technique development, computer simulation and model testing.

Techniques on architectural acoustics, electrical acoustics, signal processing etc. are to be efficiently applied to physical control of sound environment, not only by developing individual techniques and materials, but also by establishing integrated design schemes. This section develops active/passive control techniques, optimal design systems, high-performance materials and measurement techniques.

To keep comfortable sound environment, another approach from the human side is indispensable considering auditory recognition processes, meaning and information of sounds. This section examines the relationship between physical properties of sound environment and psychological/physiological responses of human beings through auditory experiments, and also clarifies the actual state of sound environment by on-site surveys.

In general, living environments are to be considered from multiple aspects with such physical elements as sound, light, heat, air etc., from human aspects such as personal/collective responses, behaviors and communication, and also concerning social norms/morals and cultural contexts. This section deals with integrated problems in living environments and lifestyles, regarding comfortability, health, public spirit and barrier-free space.