Objects & interaction Physical prototypes

KNOBS

Three coloured rotary controllers beside a laptop and an exposed electronic assembly. — 01The controller family, alongside the code and internal mechanism.Photograph

Three objects. Three ways to shape music.

KNOBS is a family of three rotary MIDI controllers. Turning each object sends control messages to music software. Their different shapes give rhythm, melody and the overall composition a distinct physical control.

Setting: ENSCI – Les Ateliers
Workshop: Objets de révolution
Date: June 2024

Giving each control a character

The three forms are called chapeau, pion and bonbon. They are assigned to the composition, rhythm and melody respectively. Each controller can be reprogrammed through USB-C, allowing its musical role to change.

A broad blue controller connected by cable, with code printed behind it. — 02The broad controller places the turning gesture across the palm and fingers.Photograph

Connecting form and code

The project develops both the objects and their electronic assemblies. A rotary mechanism sits inside each form, supported by a base that holds the circuit boards and wiring. The assembly drawing and open prototype make that relationship visible.

Exploded drawing separating the controller shell, rotary mechanism, circuit boards and base. — 03An exploded drawing shows how the outer form fits around the mechanism.Assembly drawing

A rotary shaft, circuit board and wiring mounted inside a pale circular base. — 04The physical prototype brings the rotary input, electronics and support together.Photograph

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