# Title

Kora-Inspired 21-String Prototype Root Packet

Private v4.3 challenge run focused on string scaling, segmented resonator construction, bridge geometry, neck load path, ergonomics, and respectful provenance.

# Project Intent

Build a serious engineering packet for a kora-inspired hybrid prototype while preserving humility around cultural context. The packet is intended for private design review, shop planning, and validation before any public build-log release.

# File Map

README, design notes, structured CSVs, sourcing, cut list, validation, assembly manual, RFQ, drawing brief, visual BOM brief, Wolfram starter, risks, photo shotlist, print packet, static site draft, and drawing/CAD/CNC placeholders all live at repo root or first-level folders.

# Workbook Source

The parametric source is `kora-design-table.xlsx`. It provides bowl, neck, string, bridge, and segmented construction values. Some cell meanings are inferred from formulas because the workbook is compact and minimally labeled.

# Governing Physics

The string schedule uses Mersenne-Taylor formulas. Resonator and head behavior are treated as empirical because the segmented wood bowl and membrane/bridge loading cannot be predicted accurately from simple formulas alone.

# String Safety

The current workbook schedule produces high percent-break values in the treble and modeled wound-bass range. This is the largest immediate design risk and requires a low-tension mule schedule before full stringing.

# Resonator And Head

The bowl is modeled as a 20.3 in diameter, 9.8 in deep segmented wooden calabash substitute with 14 rings and 168 segments. It is not presented as a traditional material equivalent.

# Bridge Geometry

The bridge is a tall notched load-transfer part. Its foot, notch spacing, bank separation, and rocking resistance must be validated before tuning targets matter.

# Neck And Tail Load Path

The neck is interpreted from the workbook as 51.2 in long. The first build requires a continuous through-neck or internal spine and a load-rated tail anchor rather than relying on bowl wall strength.

# BOM And Sourcing

The BOM is spec-first. Live prices, stock, and lead times are not verified. Supplier RFQs ask for material traceability, string data, ethical head sourcing, and load-rated hardware.

# Assembly Workflow

Build sequence: workbook audit, segmented bowl, rim/head interface, neck and tail proof-load, bridge prototype, low-tension stringing, measurement, then optional pickup.

# Validation

Validation covers cultural wording, workbook traceability, string safety, miter accuracy, bowl integrity, neck/tail proof load, bridge pressure, tuning, resonator response, ergonomics, and visual placeholder labeling.

# Risks

Primary risks are cultural overclaiming, string breakage, bridge rocking, head tearing, neck/body joint failure, tail anchor cutting, humidity movement, and ergonomics.

# Public Release

This repo should remain private pending cultural review, safety validation, measured prototype data, and replacement of placeholder visuals with owned photos or clearly labeled schematics.

# Next Actions

Label workbook cells, revise the string schedule with real unit-weight data, build a low-tension bridge/head mule, proof-load the neck/tail system, and request cultural wording review.