Frustrated with noisy neighbors, the author embarked on a quest to identify and mitigate the bothersome sounds. This involved experimenting with various soundproofing methods, including strategically placed acoustic panels, weather stripping, and mass-loaded vinyl. Through trial and error, and using tools like a decibel meter and spectrum analyzer, they pinpointed the noise sources as plumbing and HVAC systems within their building. Although not entirely successful in eliminating the noise, the author significantly reduced it and learned valuable lessons about sound transmission and mitigation techniques. They document their process, expenses, and results, offering a practical guide for others facing similar noise issues.
The author embarks upon a protracted and self-deprecatingly termed "stupid" odyssey into the realm of procedural noise generation. Initially captivated by the mesmerizing visuals produced by such algorithms, they set out to comprehend the underlying mathematical principles governing their creation. This journey commences with a rudimentary implementation of Perlin noise, a technique renowned for its ability to generate natural-looking textures and patterns. The author meticulously documents their progression, highlighting the incremental improvements and occasional setbacks encountered along the way.
Dissatisfied with merely replicating existing methodologies, the author endeavors to devise their own unique approach to noise generation. This ambition leads them down a path of experimentation, exploring various mathematical functions and transformations in search of novel aesthetic outcomes. They delve into the intricacies of domain warping, a technique that allows for the manipulation and distortion of noise patterns, thereby introducing a greater degree of artistic control. Through painstaking trial and error, the author refines their understanding of how different warping functions influence the final output, showcasing a diverse array of resulting textures.
Further pursuing their quest for originality, the author investigates the potential of higher-dimensional noise. This exploration involves extending the principles of two-dimensional noise generation into three-dimensional space, introducing an additional layer of complexity to the algorithms. The author grapples with the challenges of visualizing and manipulating these higher-dimensional noise fields, ultimately achieving success in generating intricate and visually compelling volumetric textures.
Throughout this extensive undertaking, the author maintains a spirit of open-mindedness and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. They acknowledge the inherent unpredictability of their experimental approach, relishing the serendipitous discoveries that emerge from their explorations. The author concludes their narrative by reflecting on the lessons learned and the profound satisfaction derived from the creative process itself, emphasizing the value of exploration and experimentation in the pursuit of artistic expression.
Summary of Comments ( 94 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43307751
Hacker News users generally praised the author's clear writing style and relatable experience with noise reduction. Several commenters shared similar struggles and offered additional tips, like using earplugs with varying noise reduction ratings for different situations, and exploring active noise cancellation headphones with specific features like transparency mode. Some highlighted the importance of addressing the underlying causes of noise sensitivity, while others discussed the psychological benefits of silence. A few pointed out potential downsides of noise cancellation, such as a feeling of isolation or difficulty perceiving crucial environmental sounds. The overall sentiment was positive, with many appreciating the author's vulnerability and practical advice.
The Hacker News post "My stupid noise journey" (https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43307751) sparked a discussion with several interesting comments related to the author's experience with noise functions and graphical outputs.
One commenter highlights the author's eventual realization that they were essentially recreating Perlin noise, pointing out that reinventing the wheel can be a valuable learning experience. They emphasize the importance of understanding the underlying principles rather than simply using a library, echoing the author's own sentiment. This commenter also suggests exploring Simplex noise as a potentially more performant alternative to Perlin noise.
Another commenter appreciates the author's candid narrative of their journey, finding it relatable and refreshing. They specifically commend the author's honesty about the struggles and the iterative process involved in understanding complex concepts.
A further comment delves into the technical aspects of noise generation, explaining the concept of "tiling" and how it contributes to the seamless patterns seen in noise functions. They elaborate on how different basis functions can affect the final output, contributing to the visual characteristics of the noise.
Several commenters discuss the educational value of the author's exploration, emphasizing that struggling through and eventually understanding a concept is a powerful way to learn. They commend the author for sharing their process, as it normalizes the struggles that many programmers face.
One commenter mentions the potential applications of noise in procedural generation, suggesting its use in creating realistic textures and terrain. They briefly touch on the broader field of procedural content generation and its increasing relevance in game development and other creative fields.
Finally, a commenter shares a link to a resource related to Value Noise, offering additional information for those interested in delving deeper into the topic. This provides an avenue for readers to expand their knowledge beyond the scope of the original article and the subsequent discussion.