PROPOSAL

 

Dustin Blackwell & Jan-Lynden B. Milan

 

Our finished product is going to look at the science behind guitar chords and the difference in the sound waves they create. We will display these differences through the aid of a guitar tuner to show the difference in chords and the pitch they hold and an EQ display to visually show the actual levels of the sound waves. The entire guitar will be housed in a wooden box with a plexiglass cover. Through the plexiglass there will be small handles for someone to ‘play’ the guitar and move the chords.

 

The physics concepts we will be presenting are sound waves and how sound works. Using the EQ display, to show the different wavelengths and amplitudes of sound waves created from the guitar. And how they relate to the different notes and chords played by the user.

 

We will be looking into sine curves and discussing their basic anatomy. In addition to this we will be discussing how sound waves are formed and how the pitch alters the form of the wave. We will accomplish this by building an interactive exhibit where children will be able to ‘play’ different guitar chords and listen to how different they sound and what note they’re actually playing. This will be taught through the visualizations shown in the ‘EQ Display’ (oscilloscope?) and Guitar Tuner. The children will be able to tell what sound waves they’re seeing on the oscilloscope/EQ Display by looking at the guitar tuner and seeing the display of what note theyre playing. They will understand this by reading the concepts written and beautifully painted on or around the guitar and the case.

 

Present – Sept 15th

Work on project proposal

Turn in before Sept 15th

Sept 16th – Oct 2nd

      Study physics and math behind project

      Work on initial drawings and plans

      (Based on if kit arrives start constructing guitar)

Oct 3rd – Oct 23rd

            Finish construction of guitar

            Finalize drawings and plans for final approval

            Finish original proof model by Oct 16th

            Begin work on Promo Poster

Oct 24th - Nov 3rd

            Continue working on promo poster and finish by Nov 3rd

            Adjust scope if needed

            Begin Work ASAP on final project

Nov 4th – Dec 1st

Weeks 1-2; will be spent constructing the housing, mounting all the parts, and getting final product completely prepared.

 

Week 3-4; will be spend making necessary adjustments to timelines and notebooks and will serve as a ‘cushion period’ in case any ridiculous calamity causes us to make more adjustments to our exhibit

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Parts list

 

  1. Guitar  kit               –                Cost Covered
  2. Eq Display              -                 ?
  3. Tuner                      -                 Free
  4. Plexiglass
  5.  2x4’s
  6. Screws
  7. plywood
  8. 3 short guitar cables -                aprox. $15
  9. Speaker                                     Cost Covered
  10. Generic Drawer Knobs  
  11. Spring
  12. Rubber Pads
  13. L.E.D.’s