Industrial engineer Javier Lander has taken a €5 lamp purchased from Ikea and transformed it into a voice-activated moving lamp, creating a real-life version of the Pixar Animation Studio logo lamp.
Lander has used a couple of servos positioned in the lamp’s base and one in the shade, sound and motion sensors, and a three-axis accelerometer to bring the lamp to life. These components work together to enable the lamp to respond to voice commands and move in a lifelike manner. Watch the video after the jump to see how the lamp has been created and how it moves.
Technical Details and Components
The servos in the lamp’s base and shade are crucial for its movement. Servos are a type of motor that can be precisely controlled, making them ideal for applications requiring intricate movements. By positioning these servos strategically, Lander has enabled the lamp to mimic the iconic movements of the Pixar lamp, such as nodding and tilting.
The sound and motion sensors allow the lamp to detect its environment and respond accordingly. For example, the sound sensor can pick up voice commands, prompting the lamp to move or change its position. The motion sensors help the lamp to detect any movement around it, adding an interactive element to its functionality.
The three-axis accelerometer is another critical component. This device measures the lamp’s orientation and movement in three-dimensional space, ensuring that its movements are smooth and accurate. The accelerometer helps the lamp to maintain balance and execute complex movements without tipping over.
Arduino Integration and Contest Participation
It might not have the fluidity of the Pixar animation, but for a real-life example of Arduino wizardry, it’s an excellent modification. Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and software. It’s widely used by hobbyists and professionals alike to create interactive projects. Lander has named his creation the “The Annoying IKEA Lamp” or SM-1, and it’s currently an ArduinoArts’ finalist entry for SeeedStudio’s Grove Toy Kit contest.
The Arduino platform allows for extensive customization and programming, enabling Lander to fine-tune the lamp’s movements and responses. By using Arduino, he has created a project that not only mimics the Pixar lamp but also showcases the potential of DIY electronics.
Applications and Future Improvements
While Lander’s creation is a fun and impressive project, it also has potential applications beyond just mimicking a movie character. Voice-activated and motion-responsive lamps could be used in smart homes to provide more intuitive lighting solutions. For example, a lamp that turns on when you enter a room or adjusts its brightness based on ambient light levels could enhance convenience and energy efficiency.
Future improvements to the design could include adding more advanced sensors and integrating the lamp with other smart home devices. For instance, connecting the lamp to a home automation system could allow it to work in tandem with other devices, such as adjusting its position based on the time of day or syncing with music for a dynamic lighting experience.
In conclusion, Javier Lander’s transformation of a simple Ikea lamp into a voice-activated, moving marvel is a testament to the power of creativity and technology. By leveraging Arduino and various sensors, he has brought a beloved animated character to life and opened the door to new possibilities in interactive lighting. Whether you’re a fan of Pixar or a DIY electronics enthusiast, this project is sure to inspire and amaze.
Source: Engadget
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