CYMATIC
 
With Recent advances in computational power, physical modelling has become increasingly viable for real time musical synthesis.  Cymatic is a new computer based musical instrument, which utilises the mass-interaction scheme of physical modelling to synthesise modular musical instruments in real time. 

Real time control of Cymatic is provided via haptic interfaces, which allow the user to experience the ‘physicality’ of the instrument with the sense of touch. Physical contours and time varying forces on the instrument can be ‘felt’ by the user and vibrotactile sensations simulate the vibrations of the resonating instrument. 

Interacting with physical models via haptic interfaces offers a new articulation between reality and ‘virtuality,’ providing an immersive experience akin to interacting with true acoustic musical instruments. 
 Introducing Cymatic

Cymatic is both a physical modelling sound synthesis environment and a musical instrument in its own right.

Cymatic utilises the mass interaction paradigm of physical modelling to allow users to construct virtual musical instruments of any shape, size or dimensionality. The virtual instrument can then be played with the aid of haptic controllers. The haptic controllers  allow the user to ‘feel’ the virtual instrument and its vibrations, giving the impression of playing a true physical acoustic instrument.
 
   Main Features of Cymatic
  • A 3D user interface for the construction of virtual instruments.
  • Multiple Excitation Methods
    • Plucking
    • Striking
    • Live Audio Input
    • Oscillators
    • Random Forces
    • Bowing
  • User Defined Control Mappings
  • Real-time or 'Off-Line' performance capability. 
Cymatic's main graphical user interface
 
Cymatic allows users to exploit the advantages of computer technology while retaining the intimate contact and fine control that characterise acoustic instruments.  Instrument characteristics can be modelled which would not be practical or even possible in the real world, for example Cymatic instruments of more than three dimensions can be created.

Fixed real world parameters can be changed in real time e.g the mass, size or damping characteristics of a string.
Cymatic instruments can be cut apart or deformed in real-time (not a recommended practice in the real world!).

To find out more about Cymatic, please click on the following links.
Home
  The Software
 Physical Modelling
 Control Interface
 Audio/Video
 Papers
 University of York
 Contact
  
This page last updated on October 31st 2003.