1. Bottlenose Dolphin Acoustics, Isolation,
Extraction and Representation
by
Patrick Cross (0614718)
Music Media and Performance Technology
Supervisor – Kerry Hagan

2. Abstract
This document describes an attempt to design and build a semi-automated
software system that isolates and extracts cetacean vocalisations from field
recordings. Two alternative approaches are implemented, the first employing a
generic musical GUI environment (Ircams Audiosculpt), the second a custom built
stand alone PC software application named ‘Deilf’. The central premise of the second
build phase is a simplification of the entire whistle extraction procedure. This is
achieved through contextual inquiry of end user work practices, work-flow analysis of
present extraction systems, the implementation of an evolutionary software
development model, cooperative evaluation techniques and validation sessions with
expert and novice users and the application of User Centred Design principles
throughout all phases of the design process. Another quantitative extraction system
(Beluga), is investigated and contrasted. The results of evaluation and validation
sessions are included and considered. Alternative approaches are offered and
suggestions for future work described.