We as STEAM lesson kit designers have created a simple and easy means by which anyone can design one of our specialty instruments. This particular instrument, the AKS Xylophone 3.0, involves a minimal amount of steps for a device that can be used to teach extensive lessons about Simple Harmonics Motion. We hope you enjoy your educational-enriching xylophone!

Step 1: What You Need

To build this instrument, you will need (1) one piece of pine wood that is approximately 4 x 10 inches, (2) one 3-foot PVC pipe that is 0.8 inches in diameter, (3) a hot glue gun with at least 2 sticks of hot glue, and (4) access to a Rikon bandsaw.

Step 2: Cut the PVC Pipe

First, measure out 8 different sized pieces along the PVC pipe. Make the different sizes (1) 11.3 inches, (2) 9.3 inches, (3) 5.8 inches, (4) 5.2 inches, (5) 3.9 inches, (6) 2.6 inches, (7) 2.4 inches, and (8) 1.3 inches. Use a marker to denote the locations at which the PVC pipe will be cut. Then, using extreme caution, turn on the Rikon Bandsaw, and make very careful cuts along the marked lines. Once done, make sure to turn the machine off.

Step 3: Align the PVC Pipe Pieces

Place the 8 different pieces of the PVC pipe from the greatest height to the lowest height. Align these pieces along one of the longer edges of the piece of wood such that the ends of every piece are in line with one another. Additionally, make sure the different sized pieces are all touching one another. Refer to the picture above for an accurate representation of the PVC pipe alignment.

Step 4: Adhere the Pieces

Plug in the hot glue gun and let it heat up for a couple minutes. Once ready, adhere the PVC pipes to the piece of wood using the hot glue. As the adhesive cools, make sure the 8 pieces are in line with one another and touching side by side.