Ingravitas Project
Research
In the realm of speculative futuristic musical design, Ingravitas emerges as an innovative project proposing the creation of a drum or percussion set with levitating cymbals. This initiative is based on electromagnetic levitation technology, developed by numerous researchers throughout history.
Magnetic levitation is grounded in key scientific discoveries, starting with the Meissner effect, discovered in 1933 by Walter Meissner and Robert Ochsenfeld, which describes how a superconductor expels a magnetic field, allowing for the levitation of a magnet. The BCS theory, developed in 1957 by John Bardeen, Leon N. Cooper, and John Robert Schrieffer, delves into the mechanism of superconductivity through the formation of Cooper pairs, which is crucial for understanding the behavior of superconductors and the manifestation of the Meissner effect. In 1986, Johannes Bednorz and Alexander Müller expanded the field by discovering superconductivity in high-temperature ceramics, driving new applications of magnetic levitation. Recently, in 2024, researchers from the Quantum Machines Unit of the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST), led by Jason Twamley, have created a vacuum-floating platform using graphite and magnets, without the need for external energy sources. This is useful for developing ultrasensitive sensors for precise measurements and for achieving exact control over oscillating platforms.
Project
Ingravitas represents an exciting vision for the future of music, where technology and art merge to significantly enhance the usability and experience for musicians.
Dynamic Customization and Adjustment
Electromagnetic levitation technology allows for precise and real-time adjustments of the height, position, and angle of the cymbals. This magnetic control offers exact personalization according to the drummer's preferences, enabling quick reconfiguration of the set. Memory locks facilitate precise setups, ensuring the cymbals remain in the desired position at all times.
Just like a synchronized light and sound system, where DMX technology and control software enable dynamic adjustments according to the music, drummers can adapt the cymbals to different musical pieces without needing to stop for manual adjustments. This technology provides extremely wide configuration flexibility, improving fluidity and efficiency during performances.
Reduction of Unwanted Vibrations and Resonances
Levitating cymbals, by not being in direct contact with physical supports, would drastically reduce potential vibrations and unwanted resonances. This improved acoustic isolation would result in much cleaner and clearer sound. The elimination of these sound interferences would not only enhance studio recording quality but also live performances, providing a superior auditory experience for both the audience and musicians. Additionally, the sound precision achieved with this technology would enhance the overall musical experience.
Ease of Transport and Assembly
Musicians, technical staff, and setup crews often need to transport and assemble heavy and bulky equipment. A drum and/or percussion set with levitating cymbals would eliminate the need for traditional physical supports, making the equipment much more compact and lightweight. This would not only reduce the time and effort required for assembly and transport but also provide a significant advantage for musicians needing to adapt to small performance spaces or perform quick setups.
Futuristic Aesthetic
The absence of physical supports creates a sleek and modern appearance, providing a visual impact that enhances the functional advantages of this technological innovation. This not only improves the overall stage aesthetics but also aids musicians and technicians by providing a more organized and clear workspace, simplifying equipment access and handling.
In summary, electromagnetic levitation technology not only allows for exact customization according to the drummer’s preferences and reduces unwanted vibrations and resonances, but it also facilitates assembly and setup while offering a futuristic and sophisticated aesthetic. Altogether, Ingravitas presents itself as an innovative proposal that not only redefines the musical realm but anticipates a future where technology and art converge to create an unprecedented experience that elevates artistic and technical potential to an unparalleled level.
