In this paper, the technical concept for sound masking technology is presented. This technology is proposed as a solution for maintaining confidential conversations at a pharmacy counter connected directly to an open waiting area. The masking system would preferably be located at the floor level near the pharmacy counters, owing to the acoustics and installation method. Further, the setting configuration offers advantages in terms of the ease of conversation at the counter and a high masking efficiency in the waiting area. The masking sound also has a minimal influence on a confidential conversation at the counter. The direction of the speaker's voice and that of the masking sound from a listener's position are identical. Moreover, the TMR (target/masker ratio) is homogeneous over an area of several meters from the speaker's position in the waiting area. Additionally, the masking sound, which contains speech-like unintelligible sound, other natural sounds, or musical sounds, are created in a bid to provide a comfortable acoustic environment for the pharmacists and patients in the waiting area.
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