Moon, Barry

Abstract:

We present a software application for the visualization and sonification of stock market data. For the sonification we took advantage of the four strengths listed by Hermann and Ritter (2004):

“…specific properties of sound perception as compared to visual perception make auditory data displays highly suited to offer an additional route to meaning in data that is both synergistic and complementary to visualization. Particular strengths in this regard are: 1) the capability of our auditory system to process several streams of information in parallel; 2) to offer a high temporal resolution; 3) its high sensitivity for structured motion, in particular, rhythm; and 4) its ability to function well even in noisy contexts.”

In addition, a HRTF (Head-Related Transfer Function) was applied to have sounds appear in 3D space for listening over headphones, allowing “off-screen” data to be localized.

Real-time stock data was accessed from www.batstrading.com and parsed in Processing. Visualization of this data was performed in Processing, and sonified in Max/MSP using the hrtfmove opcode from Csound. OSC was used to send data between Processing and Max/MSP.

In our system the user can rotate the viewport to access a visualization of each of the five data streams. Sonification provides information about each share: the amount of activity (volume) in trading is represented by the amount of rhythmic activity and price changes by upward or downward sequences in pitch.

Details can be seen at:

http://www.barrymoon.com/2010/04/13/hearing-the-unseen/

We ultimately want to create a game called “Our Tax Dollars at Work”.

Thomas Hermann, and Helge Ritter “Sound and Meaning in Auditory Data Display” Proceedings of the IEEE, 92:4, (2004): 730. Print.

Bio:

Barry is a composer, sound and video artist, and performer. His work includes compositions and improvisations for performance with computer, sound/video installations and fixed media. Barry has taught at Brown University, Bath Spa University in the UK, and is currently Assistant Professor at Arizona State University.

Brenda Moon has a background in science and information technology. She is a PhD candidate at Centre for the Public Awareness of Science at The Australian National University. Her research areas of interest are data visualization, new media, science communication and social media.