Team Name
SegFault
Timeline
Summer 2024 – Fall 2024
Students
- Thomas Pinkney – Computer Engineering
- Simon – Computer Engineering
- Alex Tran – Computer Engineering
- Matthew Moran – Software Engineering
Abstract
The Laser Harp project is an innovative blend of art, music, and technology, transforming the traditional concept of a harp into an interactive, laser-based instrument. Players can trigger audio files corresponding to specific notes by interrupting laser beams with hand movements, creating a captivating musical experience. This project demonstrates the creative potential of digital technology and serves as a dynamic educational tool, inspiring students to explore the intersections of STEM and the arts in an engaging and hands-on way.
Background
In the current educational landscape, there is a growing need to inspire and engage students in STEM fields. Despite various initiatives, many students, particularly at the middle and high school levels, remain unaware of the practical and exciting applications of STEM education combined with artistic creativity. This lack of engagement often results in a diminished interest in pursuing innovative, interdisciplinary career paths that blend technology and creative expression.
The laser harp serves as a powerful demonstration of how STEM principles can be applied to create something both technologically sophisticated and artistically compelling. By showcasing a musical instrument created entirely through engineering
and programming, we aim to inspire students to see the potential of combining technical skills with creative vision.
The laser harp is more than just a musical instrument; it is an educational tool designed to challenge students’ perceptions of what is possible when technology meets creativity. The purpose is to show students that they can create their own version of this innovative instrument, breaking down the perceived barriers between technical skills and artistic expression. By providing a tangible example of how STEM principles can be used to create something beautiful and interactive, we hope to spark curiosity and excitement among young learners.
Currently, STEM education in many schools relies heavily on traditional teaching methods, which may not effectively capture the interest of all students. Standardized curricula often lack the hands-on, real-world applications that can make STEM subjects exciting and relevant. The laser harp project directly addresses this limitation by presenting a concrete example of how technical skills can be used to create something extraordinary and engaging.
The disinterest in STEM and the arts extends far beyond the classroom, reflecting a broader societal challenge that undermines innovation and creativity. Many students view technical fields as dry or disconnected from artistic expression, failing to recognize the inherent creativity required in scientific and engineering disciplines. Our project aims to challenge this misconception by demonstrating how technology can be a powerful medium for artistic creation.
The laser harp embodies the intersection of multiple disciplines: it requires an understanding of optical principles, programming, electrical engineering, and musical theory. By creating an instrument that students can potentially replicate or modify, we provide a tangible pathway for hands-on learning that goes beyond traditional classroom instruction. The project showcases how technical skills can be used to create something both functional and beautiful, encouraging students to think creatively about their own potential.
In summary, this project addresses a significant need within the educational system by developing an innovative solution that demonstrates the power of interdisciplinary learning. By creating a laser harp and providing insights into its design and construction, we hope to inspire students to see beyond the traditional boundaries of STEM education. Our goal is to show that with creativity, technical skills, and passion, students can transform complex scientific principles into something extraordinary – a musical instrument that challenges expectations and opens up new possibilities for learning and innovation.
Project Requirements
Portability: The laser harp must be compact and lightweight, designed to be easily transported and set up in various educational settings.
Interactive Functionality: The instrument must generate musical tones when laser beams are interrupted by hand movements, with a minimum of 8 distinct playable “strings” that can produce clear, distinguishable musical notes across at least one octave.
Safety Considerations: All laser components must comply with FDA safety regulations for Class 1 or Class 2 laser devices, ensuring safe operation for educational demonstrations and student interactions.
Power Efficiency: The laser harp must be battery-powered with a minimum operational time of 2 hours on a single charge, using rechargeable batteries and including a clear battery life indicator.
Programmability: The device should include an open-source programming interface that allows students to modify the code, change sound outputs, or add additional functionality, supporting educational exploration and customization.
Durability: The instrument must be constructed with robust materials capable of withstanding multiple handlings and transportation, with components that can endure at least 500 interaction cycles without significant performance degradation.
Sustainability Consideration: Design the laser harp with repairs and maintenance in mind
Design Constraints
Accessibility: The design must ensure that the laser harp can be used by individuals with varying physical abilities, including:
- Adjustable height and interaction zones
- Customizable interaction sensitivity
- Color-blind friendly visual indicators
Cost/Economic: Maintain a strict economic framework that balances innovation with affordability:
- Total component cost must not exceed $800
- Use of readily available, cost-effective components
- Design for easy repair and component replacement
Safety & Welfare: Implement comprehensive safety measures to protect users and comply with educational safety standards:
- Strict adherence to FDA laser safety classifications (Class 1 or Class 2)
- Automatic beam shutoff mechanisms
- Thermal management to prevent overheating
- Robust electrical safety features
- Child-safe design with no exposed sharp edges or pinch points
Sustainability: Develop an environmentally conscious design with long-term ecological considerations:
- Use of recyclable and low-impact materials
- Energy-efficient electronic components
- Modular design allowing component replacement
- Minimal use of rare or environmentally harmful materials
Interoperability: Ensure the laser harp can integrate seamlessly with various technological ecosystems:
- Cross-platform software compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Multiple connectivity options (USB, Bluetooth, wireless)
- Open-source programming interfaces
- Support for multiple audio output formats
- Ability to interface with educational and musical software platforms
Engineering Standards
IEEE Standard 1588-2019 (IEEE Standard for a Precision Clock Synchronization Protocol for Networked Measurement and Control Systems):
- Ensures precise timing synchronization for audio generation
- Critical for maintaining accurate musical note generation
- Supports consistent performance across different computing environments
- Helps manage potential latency issues in digital sound production
ISO 13849-1:2015 (Safety of Machinery – Safety-related parts of control systems):
- Provides guidelines for the safety design of electronic control systems
- Ensures reliable and predictable safety mechanisms for the laser harp
- Defines performance levels and safety integrity for electronic components
- Critical for managing laser and electrical safety in an educational device
NEMA 250 (Enclosures for Electrical Equipment):
- Establishes standards for electrical enclosure design
- Ensures protection against environmental factors (dust, water, impact)
- Defines ingress protection (IP) ratings for device durability
- Provides guidelines for mechanical protection of electronic components
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Accessibility Guidelines:
- Ensures the design is accessible to individuals with different physical abilities
- Requires consideration of interaction zones and control mechanisms
- Mandates adaptability for users with varying motor skills
- Supports inclusive design principles for educational technologies
NIST SP 800-53 (Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations):
- Provides framework for securing electronic devices with network capabilities
- Establishes guidelines for data logging and user privacy
- Ensures secure software and firmware design
- Supports safe implementation of connectivity features (USB, Bluetooth)
System Overview
The harp is set up in three layers the input, control, and output layers. The Input Layer captures various forms of user interactions and environmental data, including laser interruptions, dials, and buttons for triggering specific actions, and touch screen inputs for more complex settings adjustments. These inputs are collected and transmitted to the Control Unit Layer for processing.
The Control Unit Layer is the core of the system, responsible for managing the logic that governs how inputs are translated into outputs. It houses the Sound Settings, UserSettings, and Sound Multiplexer subsystems. The Sound Settings determine how input adjustments modify sound properties such as pitch and volume. The UserSettings subsystem manages user preferences and configurations, ensuring a personalized experience. The Sound Multiplexer combines the processed inputs to generate the appropriate sound output.
Finally, the Output Layer takes the processed signals from the Control Unit Layer and converts them into audible sound through the Speaker subsystem, as well as visual feedback via the Touchscreen. This layered approach ensures a clear, structured flow of data, from user input to system response, facilitating a seamless interaction between the user and the digital laser harp.
Results
Despite the challenges faced during the Laser Harp project, significant milestones were achieved, including a fully functional software system and a working prototype. These accomplishments demonstrate the potential of the concept and its feasibility as an interactive musical instrument. However, due to unforeseen conflicts within the team, the final framed implementation could not be completed within the project timeline. While this outcome is not ideal, the progress made highlights the project’s promise and leaves room for future iterations to fully realize its potential.
Future Work
The Laser Harp project could focus on the final framed implementation way earlier in the design process, ensuring a polished and user-friendly design. Enhancements could include refining the software for greater responsiveness, incorporating customizable sound libraries, and integrating features like MIDI compatibility for broader musical applications. Additionally, exploring portable power solutions and robust frame construction would improve the instrument’s usability in various environments. Expanding the project’s educational potential by developing lesson plans or workshops could further engage students in STEM and music, showcasing the versatility of this innovative instrument. With these improvements, the Laser Harp could evolve into a compelling tool for both artistic expression and interactive learning.
Project Files
Project Charter
System Requirements Specification
Architectural Design Specification
Detailed Design Specification
Poster
Electrical Schematic
References
Mountain Glen Harps. (n.d.). Laser Harps . https://mountainglenharps.com/laser-harps/
Make: Magazine. (n.d.-a). Build a Two-Octave Laser Harp . https://makezine.com/projects/build-two-octave-laser-harp/
Make: Magazine. (n.d.-b). Laser Harp . https://makezine.com/projects/laser-harp/
Instructables. (n.d.). Upright Laser Harp . https://www.instructables.com/Upright-Laser-Harp/
