GerganaT_ILLUMvibr_PrDesVER02

Illuminating Vibrations
Outline
We had to design and construct a musical
instrument to be presented in science
festivals during The Year of Light 2015*. The
instrument should use lasers and should
promote the relationship between Art and
Science. The product might be used for
school presentations to encourage the study
of Science, Technology, Engineering, the
Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) through
demonstration of light based technologies.
*On 20 December 2013, The United Nations
(UN) General Assembly 68th Session
proclaimed 2015 as the International Year of
Light and Light-based Technologies (IYL 2015)
Approach
We were divided in teams and given different
research areas. We had a week to visit relevant
sites, talk to appropriate people, investigate
complex technological concepts. Then we
produced a presentation in order to share all
we found with the other groups and in return
use what they researched.
We had half a day to process the information,
then had to produce 20 concepts per group.
Evaluate them, choose 3 - develop them
further. Chose one - develop, build, develop.
Stakeholders, user experience, safety and
manufacturing processes were taken into
account at every stage.
Research groups
Music Technology
Group 5
Project Launch
Group 1
International Year of
Light
Interactive exhibit for
science museum
Portable kit for
schools/science
festivals
RESEARCH
BANK
What’s been done
Group 6
Group 2
Laser Harp Technology
Performing music
STEM/STEAM
Group 3
Safety & ILDA
Design Process Journal
Gergana Tatarova
Illuminating Vibrations
Group 2 PDE3
My teammates and I researched
different laser harps - framed,
unframed, full-colour; different
strengths laser beams used,
diffraction of beam methods. Midi
controllers, software functions.
Science festivals exhibit safety
requirements, target audience,
portability and power supplies
options.
We talked to Dr Fells, Glasgow Uni
professor, having music and light
related side projects.
The investigation process gave
us a good start into the project
and deepened our interest and
understanding.
Group 4
Each team presentation was very informative and at the same time made attractive to the audience. I learnt a lot of useful and relevant to the project information.
Now it was time to channel it so that we can make best use of it.
PDE3 Group2
Gergana Tatarova