Now that the electronics are functional, they need a body. I focused Experiment 5.2 on 3D modeling and printing the physical interfaces that will house the Piezo sensors.
I designed two distinct aesthetic directions. One had sharp and geometric ridges while the other had soft and organic waves.
I wanted to test the haptic feedback. I wanted to know how the finger feels when dragging across these surfaces and how that texture translates into vibration data.
WEEK 13
3D Modeling
Designed distinct textures (geometric ridges vs. organic waves) to test how physical form influences the vibration data captured by the sensors.
Continuous Data
Dragging a finger across ridges created continuous vibration signals, allowing for sustained visual effects rather than just percussive bursts.
The results were fascinating. Dragging a finger across the 3D printed ridges created a continuous vibration signal. This effectively turned the Piezo into a texture sensor.
This allows for sustained visual effects like a continuous flow of particles rather than just percussive bursts. However, the physical integration proved difficult.
The sensor needs to be pressed tight against the 3D print to pick up the vibration. But if the tolerance is off by even a millimeter, the signal is lost.
I considered the idea of combining white plastic 3D printed objects with wooden drums that are centuries old. However, I did not proceed with this integration.
During the cohort briefing, seeing other projects made me question this visual language. How do I blend modern clean design with the organic nature of the traditional instrument?
The feedback from the elective class helped me refine the sensor housing, but the aesthetic tension remains. I am trying to mend modern characteristics into traditional instruments without making it look like a cyborg parasite. It is a delicate balance of form and function that I have not quite resolved yet.
