Chaotic Systems as 3D Height Maps for Sound Synthesis

Abstract

This paper introduces a method for generating dynamic audiovisual landscapes by applying a series of discrete-time chaotic systems to wave terrain synthesis (WTS). Chaotic oscillators are known for their sensitive dependence on initial conditions and their tendency to produce complex behaviors—often at the risk of overloading audio engines. This research proposes using these chaotic systems for terrain generation by plotting them as 3D height maps, avoiding the typical pitfalls of instability rather than direct sound production which is commonly the focus of music and chaos related research. This approach also preserves the timbral richness of chaotic behavior while offering improved harmonic synthesis when periodic waveforms are used to read from the terrain. Beyond sound synthesis for electronic music, chaotic height maps offer opportunities for visual representation, making the system both an auditory and visual instrument. This paper positions chaotic wave terrain synthesis within the broader context of interdisciplinary audiovisual research areas, such as sound design and data visualization, and is part of an ongoing project (IRESAP) concerned with strategies incorporating current music information retrieval techniques and audiovisual artistic practices.