Model-Based Analysis and Design Optimization of Music Instruments

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The long--term goal of this research program is to improve our scientific understanding of the aeroacoustic and mechanical properties of music instruments that can aid in their design, manufacture, pedagogy and sound synthesis. Musical instruments have been developed over centuries through empirical methods and have reached very high levels of refinement. That said, there remain various problems experienced by makers, manufacturers and players for which solutions can be found. Instrument designs often involve compromises. For example, a modification made to improve intonation may inadvertently produce a less consistent timbre. Computer modeling methods can be applied to find optimized or tailored solutions. Our focus is primarily on music instruments, though the research methods, results and skills acquired in conducting this research will be applicable in a wide range of technological, multimedia, and acoustical engineering fields. The first specific objective of this research proposal is to better understand the link between geometric, aeroacoustic and playing parameters of woodwind instrument mouthpieces using measurements and computer modeling. This component of the proposal is a continuation of a previous objective, building on previous achievements. We will make use of Finite Element (FE) and aeroacoustic modeling to characterize the tone quality (acoustic) and playability (fluid-structure-interaction) properties. This research will also involve measurements using a hot-wire anemometer and pressure probes with a mechanical woodwind player system to assess the fluid flow characteristics and inform the 3D aeroacoustic modeling. The second objective of the proposal is to develop computer modeling approaches for the design of marimba bars that can optimize for tuning, minimize undesirable cross-mode coupling, and support explorations with composite materials as a replacement for endangered rosewood. The approach will combine FE and optimization methods, with extensions to account for sound radiation, coupling with marimba resonator pipes, and auralization. We will collaborate with specialists in the design and fabrication of natural fiber composite materials to seek new materials that can replace rosewood while maintaining the same timbral quality as traditional marimbas. The third objective of the proposal will involve the design and development of algorithmic systems that can learn to imitate the musical expressivity of human musicians when performing with virtual physics-based synthesis models or with a mechanical player system. The approach will make use of methods from artificial intelligence and machine learning, as well as robotics and music pedagogy. Results of this research will improve current efforts in the design / analysis / evaluation of music instruments, inform teachers and students about proper or more efficient ways of playing their instruments, and also have application in commercial acoustical engineering contexts.