Embedded Systems, Operating Systems, Music Physics
Associated Staff
Assessor:
Joe Wolfe
Topic Details
Status:
Active
Type:
R & D
Programs:
CS
CE
SE
Group Suitable:
No
Industrial:
No
Pre-requisites:
Description:
Can a machine really play music?
In a previous project, we made a clarinet playing robot. It can play notes -- in fact it can play them quite quickly. But it doesn't make music: it is expressionless, cold -- it's robotic. Now comes the challenge.
The robot currently uses Python to process music files, Linux coordinating events from a Gumstix microprocessor with a robostix slave communicating with the purpose-built electronics. The 'fingers' are driven by springs and solenoids and the mouth uses servomotors for 'lips' and 'tongue' and a pump and pressure control. Currently, there is no feedback from the output sound.
The aim of this project is produce a device the makes music: to improve expression, control and tone. It should 'warm up' (i.e. calibrate itself) the way a real musician does for given performance conditions. It should control performance parameters to produce a musical interpretation.
The project will involve collaboration with a team. A scholarship is available for a suitable student.
