Envelope Repeater

This patch creates a series of repeated envelopes using the function object. The number of repeats and their scaling in both x and y dimensions can be specified. This allows the patch to be used either as a sequencer or wavetable depending on the playback rate. Additionally, envelopes can be drawn directly into the larger function object to be used as control data.

Initially, the patch used the pattr objects to allow interpolation between presets stored for the function object. However, this became problematic when modulated at audio rate as the envelope has to be redrawn at high speed.

To solve this, a new patch was created in which the four envelopes are written into separate channels of a buffer. These channels are then read back using the wave~ object. The four envelope signals can also be mixed using the XY position of the nodes object. 

The playback position of the wave~ object is currently determined by a ramp signal produced by the phasor~ object. However, it could also be interesting to use non-linear signals to read the envelopes.

Additionally, separate wave~ objects for the playback of each envelope would allow them to have different durations. These durations could also be quantised relative to each other.

It would also be useful to find a way to copy and paste between the different envelopes to facilitate the creation of variations.

NIME Application



A paper and accompanying video were recently created for submission to the 2014 NIME conference. This provided a good opportunity to start practicing with the cello in its current state and analyse the recent modifications.