Statistics

Audio frequency

Programming language

Bridge (graph theory)

Engineering

Set (abstract data type)

Physics

Finite element method

Structural engineering

Mathematics

Acoustics

Computer science

Sound pressure

Parametric statistics

Internal medicine

Violin

Medicine

Mechanical engineering

The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America

Because violins are traditionally hand-crafted using wood, each one is unique. This makes the design of repeatable experiments studying some aspects of its dynamic behavior unfeasible. To tackle this problem, an adjustable finite element (FE) model of a violin soundbox using the geometry and behavior of the "Titian" Stradivari was developed in this paper. The model is parametric, so its design and material properties can be varied for before/after comparisons in both the frequency and time domains. Systematic simulations revealed that f-holes set lower in the top, as seen in some Stradivari violins (e.g., Hellier, Cremonese), raise the frequency of the Hill (a feature in the bridge mobility); conversely, the higher set f-holes seen in some Guarneri violins (e.g., Principe Doria) reduces such frequency. This agrees with the widespread belief that the high-frequency response of Stradivari violins is stronger than Guarneri violins. Changes in the response of the system were quantified once each part of the design was added, calling attention to the influence of the blocks on the behavior of signature modes, especially in the frequency and shape of B1+. A text file of the FE model is available in supplemental materials; it runs in ANSYS (free version), for which guides are included.

Exploring design variations of the Titian Stradivari violin using a finite element model