Harmonograph
Definition
A harmonograph is a mechanical apparatus that uses swinging pendulums to guide a pen across a surface, plotting complex geometric curves that physically visualize mathematical harmonic ratios and acoustic intervals.
Key Characteristics
- Superposition of multiple oscillatory frequencies
- Exponential friction damping reducing amplitude over time
- Phase shifts generating 2D and 3D spatial Lissajous patterns
Applications
- Parametric mathematical drawing in p5.js (sin, cos equations)
- Physical computing drawing bots and CNC pen plotters
- Audio-reactive visualizers mapping sound frequencies to pendulum parameters
Related Concepts
Related Entities
Mentions in Source
- “A harmonograph translates the mathematical ratios of musical chords into visual spatial trajectories.” — harmonograph-simulation-and-mathematical-drawing