A team at a university turned discarded vape cartridges into a simple electronic instrument. They salvaged a small battery, the mouthpiece and a pressure sensor and used these parts to make a crude ocarina-like synth.
The instrument makes a high, squeaky sound when the player inhales and presses buttons on the cartridge. The device works by detecting air pressure from sucking, not by blowing like many wind instruments.
The team documented their process and released open-source instructions so hobbyists and DIY makers can try safe reuse and keep parts from going to landfills.
Difficult words
- discard — to throw away something no longer neededdiscarded
- salvage — to save useful parts from waste or damagesalvaged
- sensor — small device that measures pressure or signals
- synth — electronic instrument that makes musical sounds
- inhale — to breathe air in through the mouth or noseinhales
- landfill — place where trash is buried or storedlandfills
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you try to make an instrument from old parts? Why or why not?
- Do you think reusing parts helps reduce waste? Why?
- Would you like to play a small electronic instrument like this? Why or why not?
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