Rhythmic Skin
A wearable MIDI-enabled device loaded with haptic motors for musical performance or learning.
Rhythmic Skin aims to solve the issue of auditive overload and relieve pressure from the performer. This device sends haptic messages to the back of the musician, transmitting only key information about the computerized parts of a musical performance.
The Hardware
Driven by a Teensy and a set of small vibration motors with their driver components (which were later removed in a revised version), this wearable device sends messages directly to the user’s back. The haptic motors are mounted on small acrylic discs to provide a rigid backing so their vibrations are not absorbed by the fabrics.
Moreover, the rhythmic driver is a layer can be added-on any existing jacket, only by adding three velcro zones to the interior of the garment. This provides a portable device and ensures an adequate fit to any performer. Furthermore, it makes it so that the selected garment is not permanently bound to the electronics, it can still be cleaned or used without them as needed.
The Software
This device connects via MIDI USB directly to any music software -such as Ableton Live on the picture-, granting an easy way to program the haptic signals to send to the performer. From a metronome beat, to song or section changes or detailed layer information, it gives users a wide array of choices that feel natural and unobtrusive.
Reactions
This device was showcased at ITP’s Spring Show 2018 and at the World Makerfaire NYC 2018. The reactions and feedback for this project was outstanding. A device previously aimed to performers got it’s scope massively expanded. People who told me they had not rhythm, surprised themselved as they found they could follow the beat. As Rhythmic Skin let’s you -literally- feel the rhythm on your back, it becomes a fantastic tool for music students, enthusiasts and professionals alike.
