In this project, we explore the ongoing development of a project that began last semester, focusing on the creation of a musical instrument using microcontrollers and actuators. This semester, I have continued my research by building a prototype that demonstrates the basic functions to be implemented in the final product. Let’s take a journey through the design and realization phases, uncovering the steps that led me to choose the right materials and programming strategy for this project. Starting off, I conducted thorough research into musical instruments, their construction, and the mechanics behind their sound. With this insight, I moved into the design phase, blending creativity with practicality. I carefully considered the materials that would enhance the instrument’s expressiveness and capture its unique character. Through sketches and inspiration, I crafted a blueprint that aimed to create a captivating musical experience. However, design alone couldn’t bring the instrument to life; it required the combination of artistic and engineering skills. This led me to microcontrollers and actuators, which play a vital role in animating the instrument. The construction of the prototype marked a significant milestone. I brought my creative vision into tangible form. The prototype showcased the instrument’s essential features, demonstrating innovation and musical features. As the semester comes to an end, I am inspired by the melodies produced by the prototype, motivating me to refine every detail for the final product.
Below, the steps I had planned at the end of the first semester:
- Implement PlatformIO[1] to connect the Arduino´s codes together and have a better and more fluent programming environment;
- create a GUI that communicates with the instrument via Wi-Fi. Through OSC messages, I will map the following parameters:
- the time interval between the beats of the solenoid;
- velocity;
- the degrees of rotation of the lever to vary the pitch;
- the degrees of rotation of the tuning screws;
- build two wooden sticks to support two hammers for each string.
- change the tuning system of the “Hackbrett”, similar to a guitar´s one, to decrease the required torsion force for the DC motor to rotate them;
- create different supports that fits the servos in order to change the tuning of the strings;
- regarding the performative aspect of this instrument, I will implement one IR sensor to control the lever. I will map the movement of the hand to the steps of the motor to change the pitch through movement.
- implement a small DC motor to control a sort of mute rail of the piano, damping the strings.
[1] PlatformIO Platformio is a professional collaborative platform for embedded development, PlatformIO. Available at: https://platformio.org/ (Accessed: January 26, 2023).
