A custom-designed electric ukulele based on the video game Transistor. The final version, due to be completed in Summer 2021, will be made primarily of acrylic and laser-cut spruce.
Initially designed in 2016, the ukulele was adapted from a weapon used in the video game Transistor produced by Supergiant Games. Originally intended to be produced via CNC machine and use EL panels to provide a subtle glow, the design was updated in early 2021.
The 2016 version of the ukulele was designed with support from Joel Jacques. 3D files were made for every component including the body, neck, fretboard, bridge, and other unique components using Solidworks.
Initial designs of the ukulele were sketched by hand, with necessary dimensions identified to ensure the Soprano ukulele would sound as expected.
After multiple passes on a consumer-grade CNC, it was determined the machine we were using was too inaccurate for the process we had designed. In 2020, I would return to the design to make improvements.
The ukulele was redesigned from top to bottom. The inlay lighting system was converted to a set of LED strands directed with a microcontroller; the light pattern can switch when it hears a certain note, or when the user tilts the ukulele upwards. Diffused acrylic will add a soft glow to the lights, and the pickup was upgraded to a Fishman Infinity. Stock parts for the neck, bridge, and fretboard will add simplicity to the build. The layers will be constructed by laser cutter and “sandwiched” together with woodglue prior to final assembly.
Due to COVID-19, finding a laser cutter who is open for small-run manufacture is difficult; I hope to finalize construction by the summer of 2021.