Friday, March 19, 2010

Inside the Exhibit Studio

To build some rapid momentum on developing the next exhibition I have been focusing my attention on a few simple prototypes for outdoor exhibits.  On the workbench today are some Ambient Sound Tubes.  These stainless steel tubes are cut in descending lengths (see photo below.)  The tubes take advantage of selective amplification-- which is to say that the different length pipes select specific ambient tones and amplify them. Visitors can experience the sound by placing their ear near the black ring shaped opening and listening, or taping on the opening with their hand to make the sound resonate.  Is this a new idea for an exhibit? No-- however there are some resourceful uses of everyday objects here that are worth a closer look. 

To make the stainless steel pipes you need not look any further than the bathroom fixture section of your local home improvement warehouse. Specifically these are stainless steel bathroom safety grab handles that have been cut to length with a hack saw.  A black plastic ring was fabricated to soften the edges of the mounting flange.  This is advisable since visitors will be placing their ears against the openings.

You can expect to see this prototype on exhibit within the next month here at Coyote Point Museum. I will post when it is installed so you can come give it a test spin!

Regards,

Eric
CPM's resident tinkerer

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