Modular Physical Models in a Real-Time Interactive Application

Through recent advances in processing power, physical modelling using finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) methods has gained popularity. Many different musical instrument models based on these methods exist, and nearly all are based on the same underlying systems and interactions between them. This paper presents an application where individual resonator modules, such as strings, bars, membranes and plates, can be connected in a modular fashion and interacted with in real time. Various excitations, including the bow, hammer and pluck, are implemented as well, allowing for expressive control and a wide sonic palette. Existing and non-existing model configurations can easily be implemented, modified and experimented with, as well as the parameters describing them.