Water harp with optical sensing of the break of flowing water streams

A system for simulating operation of a stringed instrument using water and light, the system comprising:

• a nozzle configured for outputting a water stream, when supplied by a water source, that falls vertically downward from an upper end to a lower end;
• a light transmitter configured to inject light into the lower end of the water stream;
• a light receiver configured to receive, at the upper end of the water stream, the light injected into the water stream and, in response, to generate a signal;
• and
• a lens or lens system disposed between the nozzle and the light transmitter, the lens or lens system configured to receive output light from the light transmitter and convert the output light into collimated light that is directed upward toward the lower end of the water stream.

A system for simulating operation of a stringed instrument using water and light, the system comprising:

• a light transmitter assembly configured to inject collimated light into a lower end of a falling laminar water stream;
• a light receiver configured to receive the light injected into the water stream at or near an upper end of the water stream and, in response, to generate a signal;
• a controller configured to process the signal and, in response, selectively operate an audio system to play a musical note or audio file;
• and
• a sloped landing pad disposed between the light transmitter and the light receiver, the sloped landing pad being formed of substantially transparent material, wherein the lower end of the water stream contacts the sloped landing pad.