Dynamic Cell Matrix for Step Sequencer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional step sequencers for virtual musical instruments often produce rhythmic sequences that sound robotic and are musically and structurally limited due to their matrix-based interface, lacking flexibility and authenticity.
Innovation Solution
A method for operating a virtual instrument that involves a cell matrix where each cell is assigned audio sample data, allowing for dynamic input controls such as touch inputs to adjust playback start points, cell selection, and audio characteristics like velocity and probability, enabling more nuanced and flexible rhythmic patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional matrix-based interface is used for step sequencer control, then the device is easy to operate and intuitive, but the rhythmic sequences sound robotic and are musically limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic cell selection and variable array lengths, allowing users to selectively activate cells and adjust the number of cells in each array independently. This dynamic control enables flexible rhythmic patterns and human-like performance variations while maintaining the intuitive matrix interface, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and musical versatility
2Ease of operation
If all cells in the cell matrix are played simultaneously in each step, then the operation is simple, but the rhythmic patterns are structurally limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cell matrix into multiple independent arrays, where each array can have a different number of active cells. This segmentation allows different rhythmic patterns to be created by varying the cell count in each array independently, enabling diverse rhythmic structures while keeping the interface simple and the playback control straightforward
Data Source
AI summary
A method of operating a UI for controlling a virtual musical instrument can include receiving a first input corresponding to a selection of an array of cells within a cell matrix, each array of the cell matrix assigned to audio sample data stored in a computer-readable medium that, when triggered, causes the audio sample data to output corresponding audio, and each cell within its particular array of the cell matrix, in response to being selected for playback and upon being triggered to begin playback, causes the audio sample data corresponding to the cell's particular array to be played. The method can further include receiving a second input corresponding to a changing of a number of cells within the particular selected array; and changing the number of cells within the selected array based on the second input and maintaining a number of cells in other arrays within the cell matrix.