Responsibilities

Combining 50 LED RGB lights, 10 vibration motors, and an LCD, Vibrato is a small installation just large enough for two hands placed on a pedestal. A 12mm vibration motor dedicated to each fingertip allows for finite articulation of melodic and rhythmic themes via taps, clicks, and rumbles. Individually addressable LED lights surround each finger and shine in time with instrumentation while an LCD panel centered in the display showcases synchronized lyrics. All together the immersive experience is attention-grabbing yet grounding as it translates an artist's intentions as one of the most elaborate speakers yet to be created. The entire performance can also be choreographed and reproduced live, as all of the signals to control each component are streamed from Logic through MIDI serial commands. Vibrato was entirely handcrafted and designed from home during the Covid-19 pandemic and is an ever-evolving work in progress.

Documentation of this work is available in multiple places including:

  • Google Document outlining technical planning and execution of circuitry and hardware pieces available here
  • Instagram Reels documenting the creative process can be found here
  • I was also invited to present this work during a lecture for USC's Viterbi School of Engineering Undergraduate EE250 class

    • Outcome & Skills Learned

    This project was massive re-evaluation of my abilities in not only electronics but in the general sense of end to end software and hardware development within a confined space and time limit. This first version was entirely sawed, drilled, and soldered in my small bedroom during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic.

    I believe the hard skills I've learned are best left to the Google doc above, but I believe the mental endeavors involved in completing this work had even more personal value. After finishing the first iteration of this project I realized that the biggest obstacles to completing an abstract prototype of a software and hardware product were the perception of my own limitations.

    Quick Details

    Vibrato explores the multidimensional nature of sound and music as a multi-sensory experience. By incorporating haptics and light displays with audio, this installation creates a personal and immersive sound experience for an audience of one. Inspired by the Covid-19 pandemic, Vibrato was created with the intention of investigating the significance of touch and personal connection within daily life. In a physically confined world supersaturated with digital interaction, true intimacy seems absent. It is easy to blame new technologies and point to social media, video conferencing, and streamed entertainment as walls preventing human closeness. Vibrato is a testament to the power of human connection and its ability to transcend any boundaries set by the false notions that technology creates emotionally restrictive barriers. The project specifically focuses on creating an accessible experience, allowing anyone to enjoy the multifaceted aspects of music through touch, sound, and visuals.

    • Role: Design, Electrical, Software, Hardware
    • Hardware: Hand Crafted
    • Languages: C++
    • Platforms: Logic Pro X, Arduino, MIDI Serial Control
    • Time Frame: 6 months

    Preview of lights before diffuser install.

    An inside view.

    Closeup of electronics.