Vibrations of a harp soundbox: Experiment and finite-element analysis

A medium-sized lever harp of proven design has been built. At each stage of construction, the components have been subjected to experimental modal analysis, using an impact hammer and small accelerometer, and also Chladni patterns. The results have been compared to a corresponding sequence of finite-element calculations. The aim is to build a picture of how the various ingredients—soundboard, veneer, ribs, soundbox, access holes, string tension, etc.—interact with each other to produce an acceptable instrument. Ultimately one would like to create a set of desiderata for the design and manufacture of harp components in a similar manner to that already achieved for, say, the violin.