mechanical synthesizer

thingiverse

This 19th-century gadget employs a unique method involving teeth on gears corresponding to frequencies of notes. A video showcases its functionality (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ranjit/5472598312/). The gear set, designed from 1/8" wood or acrylic, creates a just intonation diatonic scale, with the numbers of teeth on gears being 24, 27, 30, 32, 36, 40, 45, and 48. Optical sensors like photo interrupters or magnetic pickups similar to Telharmonium's (http://www.synthmuseum.com/magazine/0102jw.html) can be used for pitch detection. Two documents, Gears and Frame, are provided with specifications for assembling the instrument using a 1/4" steel rod, a DC motor, and customization based on individual axles and motors. The assembly process involves stacking gears with spacers and gluing them in place while avoiding glue on the axle. Motor support brackets are glued freehand for adjustments. Experiment with different speeds and scrapers to create unique sounds.