Debate Process

This installation project was an opportunity to learn and build something with electronics. Each unit includes a 45W power supply, an Arduino micro-controller, a custom build circuit board which acts as an audio filter to detects a specific audio frequency, a microphone, speakers, a RGB-LED strip and some controls.

Each Arduino micro-controller is programmed with a set of rules to allow both to engage into a conversation, in a non deterministic way. It produces words in binary via light and a discontinuous audio tone. Between each sentence there is a short break. Within that short period of time, the other unit has a chance to intervene. If both accidentally start talking together, one stops. If one talks for way too long, the other starts talking as well and as no-one gives up, they talk on top of each other and turn red.

Mihalis Marinis designed and helped with the implementation of the custom board.

This installation was build for monomorphia solo art exhibition.

It all started from this gif

Mannequins and cardboard mockups

First test heads

Many attempts to find the right shape

Final choice

Design sheets – Design sheets

Head attatchement

First LED tests

First version of the board – First version of the board

Second version – Second version

Powering it the board

Adding the LEDs and arduino control

Three parts of the module – Three parts of the module

Both modules – Both modules

Module installed

Both units complete

debate process

The algorithm was prototyped in processing for easy debugging and visual feedback. Here is what it looks like when running.

See the final installation.