If you have a fair few hours spare this weekend, you might fancy building yourself a funky LavaAMP Equalizer. This innovative device uses a similar process to the retro lava lamp technology to create mesmerizing patterns in time with your music. Watch the video after the jump to learn more about the LavaAMP Equalizer project and see it in action.
Design and Creation
The LavaAMP Equalizer has been designed and created for entry into the UIST 2013 Student Innovation Contest. This contest has been established to showcase innovative new interactions on state-of-the-art hardware, where the hardware is supplied to the participants. This year, entrants were given 8 miniature water pumps and the prototype PumpSpark controller. The PumpSpark controller allows you to programmatically shoot streams of water up to 1 meter into the air, and the system supports Arduino IDE, making it highly versatile for various creative projects.
The LavaAMP Equalizer is a perfect example of how modern technology can be combined with artistic creativity to produce something truly unique. The device reacts to music processed in real-time, creating dynamic visual patterns that are both captivating and synchronized with the audio. This makes it not only a fun DIY project but also a potential centerpiece for parties, events, or even just a cool addition to your home decor.
Technical Details and Development
The LavaAMP in the video below reacts to the music processed in real-time and was developed using the Microsoft PumpSpark Kit and Pure Data. Pure Data is an open-source visual programming language that is ideal for creating interactive multimedia applications. By leveraging the capabilities of Pure Data, the developers were able to create a system that processes audio input and translates it into control signals for the water pumps.
The Microsoft PumpSpark Kit provided the necessary hardware to bring this project to life. The kit includes miniature water pumps that are capable of creating precise and controlled water streams. These streams are then illuminated and manipulated to form patterns that move in sync with the music. The combination of these technologies results in a visually stunning display that is both interactive and responsive.
For more information on the new UIST 2013 Student Innovation Contest, jump over to the official website for details.
Applications and Future Potential
The LavaAMP Equalizer is not just a one-off project; it has the potential to inspire a range of applications and future developments. For instance, similar technology could be used in public art installations, where interactive water displays could respond to environmental sounds or user inputs. Additionally, the principles behind the LavaAMP Equalizer could be adapted for use in educational settings, helping students learn about the intersection of art, technology, and engineering.
Moreover, the project highlights the growing trend of integrating physical computing with creative expression. As more tools and platforms become available, we can expect to see an increasing number of projects that blend these disciplines in innovative ways. The LavaAMP Equalizer serves as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity meets cutting-edge technology.
Source: Hack A Day
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