[dovetail] developed the mechanism that enables operations such as hammer movement, rapid repetition and string damping when a piano key is pressed, using a 3D printer over several weeks. The design is based on “compliant mechanisms” that flex in a controlled manner and aims to imitate the feel of a real piano.
The modular structure allows the keys and the PCBs supporting them to be assembled. Thanks to infrared sensors, the device functions as a hybrid piano and MIDI keyboard that produces digital sound while retaining real mechanical action.
The prototype was tested by musicians at the Open Sauce event. [dovetail] wants to replace the sensors with Hall effect sensors, improve the mechanism and use different filament.
Why it matters
This approach offers a different design path for recreating the physical response of keys in devices that produce digital sound. Because the modular structure allows mechanical parts and electronic components to be developed together, the project is relevant not only to piano enthusiasts but also to those designing MIDI keyboards and hardware. The fact that musicians tested the prototype makes it possible to evaluate not only whether the mechanism works technically, but also the response it provides during use. The open question is how changing the sensors, improving the mechanism and using different filaments will affect the key response and the system’s performance.