FEM-BEM Vibroacoustic Simulations of Motion Driven Cymbal-Drumstick Interactions

Abstract

The transient acoustic dynamics of a splash cymbal are investigated via the Finite Element Method-Boundary Element Method. Real three-dimensional motion data recorded from the interaction of drummer–drumstick–cymbal provide the initial and the loading conditions to the simulated interaction of the drumstick–cymbal Finite Element Models. Progressively intensified free strokes are used as loading conditions for both experiment and simulation. The velocity values of the moving drumstick in various drumming conditions are monitored, recorded, and analysed to provide input data into the time domain simulations. The synergy of motion capturing and numerical methods allows computing the sound generated by the combined interaction of the vibroacoustic behaviour of the cymbal with the motor-interaction of the performer. The proposed methodology promotes a novel perspective in musical instrument design, optimization, and manufacturing considering performance discrepancies intentionally introduced by performers.

Keywords

• cymbal
• drumstick
• vibroacoustics
• FEM-BEM modelling and simulation
• motion capture