Noise is one of the most common stresses of modern life. While hearing damage caused by loud noises is well researched and often avoidable through protective measures, the influence of quiet but persistent noise – so-called extra-aural noise – is often underestimated. This form of “stress noise” has been proven to have a negative impact on quality of life by triggering stress reactions in the body without directly damaging the hearing.

The KEPRAS project (“Contactless Evaluation of Physiological Reactions to Acoustic Stimuli”) is investigating how the body reacts to this noise exposure. Using camera-based technologies, vital parameters such as heart rate and breathing patterns are recorded non-invasively to determine the stress level. These methods make it possible to make dynamic and precise assessments of the physiological effects of extra-aural noise.

The KEPRAS research results offer a wide range of potential applications – from stress detection in road traffic to people who cannot verbally express their stress reactions, such as newborns or people with disabilities.

The four-year project started on 01.10.2024 and is funded by the HEAD Genuit Foundation.