“The Rubber Lung” - An Original Instrument Design
Faculty Mentor
Ben Luca Robertson
Presentation Type
Poster
Start Date
4-14-2026 11:30 AM
End Date
4-14-2026 1:30 PM
Location
PUB NCR
Primary Discipline of Presentation
Music
Abstract
This project presents an experimental sensor-based instrument designed to produce unconventional sound textures for horror media. The device uses a flex sensor on a balloon that is then connected to an Arduino, which responds to bending and movement, sending data to a Max/MSP patch where the input controls sound processing such as filters and frequency. The physical motion of bending the sensor on the balloon mimics the expansion and contraction of lungs, creating a breathing like interaction between performer and instrument. This design allows subtle gestures to alter the sound in real time. By using a bodily, breathing motion into sound, the instrument aims to create an unique and unpredictable presence suited for horror film, scores, games, and immersive sound design.
Recommended Citation
Gonzalez, San, "“The Rubber Lung” - An Original Instrument Design" (2026). 2026 Symposium. 41.
https://dc.ewu.edu/srcw_2026/ps_2026/p2_2026/41
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
“The Rubber Lung” - An Original Instrument Design
PUB NCR
This project presents an experimental sensor-based instrument designed to produce unconventional sound textures for horror media. The device uses a flex sensor on a balloon that is then connected to an Arduino, which responds to bending and movement, sending data to a Max/MSP patch where the input controls sound processing such as filters and frequency. The physical motion of bending the sensor on the balloon mimics the expansion and contraction of lungs, creating a breathing like interaction between performer and instrument. This design allows subtle gestures to alter the sound in real time. By using a bodily, breathing motion into sound, the instrument aims to create an unique and unpredictable presence suited for horror film, scores, games, and immersive sound design.
