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Beacon
“Beacon” is a sculptural object designed to promote interaction between the piece and its viewers. The overall form is simple and unassuming, while the details in construction and materials draw the viewer into the piece. Once the viewer begins the engage with the piece, a capacitive touch sensor engages a motor, which creates a whirlwind of metallic confetti inside the main body of the piece. Additionally, a light turns on as the motor starts running which makes the metallic pieces sparkle and draws the focus directly the center of the object.
Once the interaction has occurred, the confetti, due to static electricity leaves a residue of its presence by sticking to the walls of the acrylic chamber. This not only makes for a custom experience each time it is explored, but signifies to other users that there is more to the object itself than what initially meets the eye. The same is true for the inclusion of the power cord, which helps to signify that this is not a static object.
The interaction of this piece was designed using arduino and a microcontroller. All of the components of the piece are seamlessly integrated into the body. The fan and the microcontroller are housed in the base, while the light is fed through one of the brass pillars to reach the top of the tube. It was important for the integrity of the piece that all of the electronics be concealed, so as not to give away the surprise of the interaction itself.
2013
Made of: molded plastic, Arduino, brass, acryclic, MDF, paint