Improving sensors for acoustic instruments

September 23, 2024

Music has been shown to elevate mood, reduce anxiety, and improve memory. The work by Robert Nawrocki will improve the utilization of sound sensors in instruments, which will ultimately result in a better understanding of instrument characteristics and an improvement in the musical qualities of instruments.

Clayton Houck

Licensing Associate

summary

Manufacturers of guitars, violins, and other acoustic instruments embed sensors to detect acoustic vibrations; however, existing sensors are significantly limited in size and shape. Purdue researchers have developed sensors that can be fabricated into any 3D shape.

PROBLEM

Acoustic instrument manufacturers use sensors to detect vibrations that vary in size and sound frequency. Standard acoustic sensors, however, are significantly limited in size and shape, which limits their frequency ranges and sensitivity.

SOLUTION

Purdue researchers have used 3D printing to manufacture acoustic sensors that can be fabricated into any shape, which promotes different frequency ranges. These sensors can be embedded in nearly any position on an instrument, which further optimizes sensitivity.