Epicenter

Exhibit Experiential and Audio Design

for Oregon Museum of Science and Industry

The Epicenter is an earthquake simulator that teaches as it shakes. Visitors can select one of three historic earthquakes, which determines the narration as well as the program of sound effects, lights flickering, and pneumatic triggering the lurches the entire platform back and forth.

My major role was that of designing the audio system, and composing earthquakes...or at least the creative interpretation of them. Epicenter required several low frequency transducers to really simulate the rumbling of the earth. Ableton and other sound design tools were used to create low frequency patterns with complex phase relationships and emphasis on hitting the resonant frequencies of the chamber within the exhibit for maximum bass. I also contributed to the buildout of the LEDs, a huge undertaking with the the full panels, trim lighting, and control surface. All of the wires, of course, had to be routed to avoid torsion and shearing from omnidirectional jolts.