Group: Thi Quynh Ha Nguyen, Albert Foun, Amy Orozco
MU 2801 Final Project: 2021 A-Term
Description
The initial goal for this project is to create a Kalimba with 8 keys and use 8 actuators to pluck each key. They will be powered by servos. This would include making the kalimba itself. We will use wood to create the soundbox and buy 8 keys. If we are unable we will buy a premade Kalimba. If time allows it we will also create an external keyboard with 8 keys. Touch sensors will be used to represent each key and the input will be used to move the actuators on the Kalimba.
Motivation
We hope through completing our project we enforce skills learned throughout the class. We also want to create a final product that will successfully play the Kalimba, although with only 8 keys, and produce a good sound.
Design
The initial design involved an 8-keys kalimba as the main body of the project. However, after the initial test with a servo, the kalimba didn’t produce loud enough sounds and the space between keys didn’t give the servo space to hit the notes. We changed to a 17 key kalimba so that the keys had enough space between and the servos can actually hit the notes.
Actuations
To excite the tines, we will need multiple servos attached to the kalimba. To fit all the pieces around the kalimba in an organized and efficient manner, we will need a structure that can hold all of the servos without interfering with the sound of the kalimba.
Visuals
Like stated above the servos will be on top of the kalimba. The wiring should be organized and not interfere with the movement of the servos. All the wires should be secured so they don’t come out when the machine is playing or during transport. Ideally we will create an attachment that houses the Arduino and the breadboard.
BOM
- 17 key kalimba
- 8 micro servos
- 3d printed horns of various lengths for the servos
| Cost of Components | ||
| Item: | QTy: | Cost: |
| 3d printed horns | 8 | $8 |
| Micro servos | 8 | $11 |
| Arduino Nano | 1 | $4 |
| Power Supply | 1 | $15 |
| 16 Channel 12-Bit PWM Servo Motor Driver | 1 | $9 |
| Total Cost: | $47 |
Final Product
Future Developments
- Improve range of velocities using more powerful solenoids.
- Improve structure: enable viewing of solenoids striking the drum pads for visual entertainment aspect.
- Implement polyrhythms using binary encoding for individual solenoid actuation.