Recorder Problem Solving

During the tests run in the previous lab, it was found that the quality of sound was poor, screechy like child learning the recorder and not an instrument fit for a symphony. The first proposed solution was changing the air pressure released from air compressor, however after this failed to solve the problem, we moved on to investigating the seal of the solenoids over the holes of the recorder. This led us to use foam earplugs instead of the original rubber stoppers to ensure a better seal over the holes.

Week 9

Weekly Objective - This week is the dress rehearsal and final symphony performance. The construction and algorithm are complete so now the only thing left to do is test and ensure that the recorder works cohesively with the MIDI and the other instruments.  

Design Lab

In lab today our instrument was checked by our advisors to ensure that it was fit to be a part of the final performance. Emily and our advisors made sure that our instrument was compatible with the master code and Kevin fixed some minor problems with the air supply system that were causing some squeaking.  Jessica began working on the outline for the final presentation and Allie updated the blog with all the progress we’ve made in the past week.

Arduino Programming

Last week every group was given code to use that will allow the main computer to communicate with each instrument. We worked closely with our lab instructor and TAs to cater this code to the recorder and the way it uniquely functions. Essentially the the code works is that the main computer sends a midi note and note duration to an instrument. For each midi note, a combination of the recorders solenoids will turn on or off for a duration. When that duration is over the pneumatic solenoid will turn off and no sound in the recorder will play because there will be no air supply.

Frame Construction

Today Kevin, Jessica and Allie Spent the afternoon and evening completing the frame construction. First, two semicircular divets were sanded into the wood in order to lower the recorder to the same level as the solenoids on the sheet metal. This allows for the solenoids to reach the recorder holes. The recorder was then secured to the frame using bent hose clamps. Finally, the solenoid, relay board and arduino then attached to the sheet metal using steel epoxy. Tomorrow the wires will all be reconnected and soldered. The final prototype will then be ready for final program testing and troubleshooting before Wednesday. 

Week 8

Weekly Objective - This week we are finishing the construction and soldering of the final product. By Wednesday's design lab we will have our deliverable for fine tuning and a final audition. The robot's mechanical function and program must work by the end of lab in order to participate in the robot symphony next Friday.

Arduino Programming

We have just been notified by our advisors that each instrument in the symphony will not be controlled by its own program, as we had previously been led to believe, but that they will all be controlled by a single midi program running on a single computer. The main program will ensure all instruments keep tempo and play the correct notes at the correct time. However, this means that all the code and calculations previously done will not be used in the final performance. Instead we will need to edit the code written by our advisors to fit our instrument. Because the code was written for a xylophone type instrument, the code will have to be changed significantly to accommodate the recorder, as the example code was for a xylophone. 

                                                                             Frame Construction

Today at Drexel's machine shop and the innovation studio the legs, structure, and shelving were constructed as shown in the picture to the left. Tomorrow in Design Lab we will deconstruct our previous prototype in favor of mounting it all on the new frame. While this means that we cannot play notes for this weeks lab, it also gives time for Emily to reprogram the arduino. Hopefully everything will be assembled and we will have a final product next week for the in class rehearsal at the ExCITe center. 

Gathering Materials

Today Allie and Kevin went to Home Depot for frame supplies. We purchased screws, washers, square dowels, JB Weld, more hose clamps and perforated angle iron, all of which will be used to construct the frame support in the next few days. 

Week 7

Weekly Objective - This week we plan to dismantle the foam-board prototype and attach the recorder and electrical components to the newly-built frame. We also plan on changing the programming to reflect the changes our advisors recently made to insure smoother collaboration with other instruments.

Frame Design

After in-class testing, we discovered that the solenoids generate a bit of heat after a couple minutes of constant usage. We completely redesigned the frame for easier construction and planned the new shelves for the solenoids to be made of sheet metal, which will serve as a sort of heat sink and distribute the heat generated by the solenoids over a larger surface area.

Week 6

Weekly Objective - This week we were assigned our part for the first movement of the symphony piece that we will be playing. We will begin to work on the programming for these notes and fine tune the wire connections in the circuit (so they don't have to be held together by hand).

Week 6

Weekly Objective - This week we were assigned our part for the first movement of the symphony piece that we will be playing. Finishing the frame, programming the correct notes/note duration, and fine tuning different circuitry elements is the primary goal for this week. As the final performance is in less than 3 weeks, we hope for the project to come together by the end of next week so that we have a whole week (Week 9) to tweak and perfect the instrument.