Lotus - An Arduino Project (Physical Computing)

Masters of Interaction and Experience Design, University of Limerick

Arduino C++ Interaction design prototype neopixel ring physical computing interactive installation interactive

Figure 1: Lotus Project Installation at University of Limerick.

This project is a simple demonstration of how different animations of colorful light projections could be a reflective tool for displaying human emotions. A very critical tool for interior designing, lighting is known to expand space and dissolve boundaries. One can even use lighting to produce theatrical effects and scenes.

Using Arduino, a mockup of a lighting device was created for showcasing different moods implemented on it. The idea that primarily drove this project was the Apple Mac book’s “breathing light” functionality. Although debatable whether the entire 2D valence-arousal model of emotion proposed by Russel can be simulated through animations, a simple and soothing pulsating light did put certain ideas in perspective.

There is still plenty of room for thought behind exploring other moods and that was where the focus of this project has been. This also implies that the existing harmony between lights and colors has a lot of room for exploration besides the ordinary user experience avenues like ambiance, screen interaction, education etcetera.

Figure 2: A working prototype that shows how a Grove-LCD RGB Backlight, Potentiometer, Pushbutton, Touch sensor,
Photodiode, Neopixel Ring WS2812, 10k Ohm Resistor are connected using an Arduino UNO.

Technical Components Used for Project Work

Hardware Used: Arduino Uno, Grove-LCD RGB Backlight, Potentiometer, Pushbutton, Touch sensor,
Photodiode, Neopixel Ring WS2812, 10k Ohm Resistor

Software/Libraries Used: Arduino IDE 2.0.0, Grove LCD library, Adafruit Neopixel library

Figure 3: A schematic circuit diagram that shows how different components are connected using an Arduino UNO.

Art and Craft

The base of the lampshade was made up of a shoebox coated with tissues and then painted black. The lampshade was inspired by the shape of the Lotus, which is essentially the name given to the lamp. This was made using origami with parchment paper. The ends of the lampshade were sewed together with jute thread and decorated with a few rhinestones. The shoe box was then curated to fix 4 controls, an LCD, and the lampshade on the top surface.