KeySense
2019
Ólafur Arnalds, Benjamin Maus
An optical piano key sensing device senses key presses and velocities of
piano keys on any 88 key piano or keyboard instrument. It can be quickly installed without
any modifications to the piano by resting it on the left and right key blocks of the piano.
Working on the first prototypes used for the live tour
Specifications
Technology
- Reflective sensing with adaptive power for robust sensing of black and white keys
- Also works on inverted keyboards
- Sensing rate ≥ 1000 Hz for low latency
- Status LED for each key (dimmable)
- Note velocity output
- One button calibration
- Environment light rejection
- Unlimited polyphony
Mechanical
- Adaptable to octave spans between 160-170 mm
- Easy height adjustment with thumbscrews
- High quality cable to Controller
- Easy to disassemble (three pieces < 500 mm) and transport
- Black fibreglass housing, black anodised metal mounts
Controller
- Status display / LEDs
- Inputs for expression pedal and foot switch (6.5 mm jacks), creates MIDI CCs
- Additional MIDI input for merging with piano notes
- Three MIDI outputs (one USB) to avoid MIDI splitting
- USB MIDI (no driver required)
Mechanical Elements
Block for adjusting the height
Magnetic interconnect with spring-loaded contacts
Electronics
Sensor PCB for one octave and additional four notes
Inside the controller box
Module interconnect
Credits
Stage photographs by Maximilian Koenig
Here are some pictures of the production and development process.