Using pure data for real-time granular synthesis control through leap motion

Abstract

This paper documents the development of a granular synthesis instrument programmed on PD (Pure Data, Miller Puckette et al. (http://www.puredata.info) for being controlled by Leap Motion (https://www.leapmotion.com/), a computer hardware sensor that converts hands and fingers motion into simple data, ready for end-user software inputs. The instrument named mGIL (my_Grainer’s Instrument for Leap) uses the my_grainer (Developed by Pablo Di Liscia, available at: puredata.info/Members/pdiliscia/grainer.) PD’s external object as its GS (granular synthesis) engine and leapmotion (leapmotion external developed by Chikashi Miyama. Linux version available at: http://musa.poperbu.net/index.php/tecnologia-seccions-30/-puredata-seccions-45/129-installing-leapmotion-puredata-external-on-linux. Windows version at: http://jakubvaltar.blogspot.com.ar/2013/10/leap-motion-pure-data-external-for.html) external object as its local interface. This connection between software and hardware intends to reach expressive computer music sounds, with the performer’s body imprints. The present status of that interplay (software + hardware) is a work-in-progress advance of the author doctoral thesis.