Physiological Metronome

Project Overview

The purpose of this design project is to develop a metronome device which will maintain a constant, adjustable tempo for the practicing musician. A key feature that the client requires is that the device’s tempo-maintaining mechanism be inaudible. Such a feature allows the musician to practice and improve musical performance using a more intuitive approach—one that does not distract the musician while playing music (i.e. audible ticks, as used in conventional metronomes). The most natural option, which we are pursuing, is to create a tactile metronome transducer that attaches to some anatomical region of the body while maintaining functionality and user comfort.

Team Picture

Design Team: Cole Drifka, Jeff Theisen, Adam Pala, and Ben Fleming

Images

The finalized prototype. The ear attachment is attached to a metronome circuit which is inside the case. The tick-mark scale allows the user to change the tempo by adjusting a potentiometer.

The adjustable ear attachment holds a miniature solenoid capable of delivering a concise, tactile tempo behind the ear of the musician.

Files

Product Design Specifications (October 8, 2009)
Mid-Semester Presentation (October 15, 2009)
Mid-Semester Report (October 21, 2009)
Final Poster Presentation (December 6, 2009)
Final Report (December 9, 2009)

Contact Information

Team Members

Adam Pala - Team Leader
Benjamin Fleming - Communicator
Jeffrey Theisen - BSAC
Cole Drifka - BWIG

Advisor and Client

Prof. Paul Thompson - Advisor
Dr. Bill Fahl - Client