What This Is
Wooden Hang asks a focused question: can wood support handpan-like note placement without pretending it behaves like hammered steel? The packet answers by starting small, measuring everything, and giving the concept permission to become its own family if the data points away from a steel analogy.
The primary prototype path is a replaceable top-plate hybrid over a resonant bowl. That path keeps the circular playing geometry while making note-zone changes cheaper and clearer than a full carved shell on day one.
The Design
The governing model is intentionally first-order: local note fields are treated like plates or tongue-like hybrids, and the bowl plus gu acts like a cavity resonance system. The formulas are useful as trend tools, but all note dimensions remain assumptions or derived estimates until measured prototypes exist.
Prototype Ladder
Coupon matrix for species, thickness, slotting, and finish damping.
Single-field cavity rig with a removable top.
Three-note sector to test cross-talk and real hand spacing.
Five-note subset, then full 9-note concept only if the measurements earn it.
The Numbers
| Parameter | Value | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Outer diameter | 18.0 in | design target |
| Overall height | 4.75 in | design target |
| Top thickness | 0.200-0.320 in | experiment range |
| Bowl depth | 2.25-2.75 in | derived estimate |
| Gu diameter | 2.75-3.50 in | experiment range |
| Target layout | G minor, 9-note concept | assumption |
Tuning & Validation
Every prototype records target vs measured pitch, cents error, decay time, cross-talk, body resonance, and moisture content. The recommended first physical prototype is a three-note sector because it is the smallest build that can honestly expose note interaction.