Project 1 Concept

“Visual Instrument”
After looking at the photocell / bottle lamp example I found on instructables for inspiration, I have decided to design and build a sort of “Visual Instrument” much like a flute or something similar, but instead of producing sound, It will produce relaxing lighting effects.

This will be done by using a series of 5-6 photocells, each connected to its own different coloured LED. Akin to the holes on a flute, when a particular photocell is covered by the user’s finger, the LED will illuminate, and when several photocells are covered, a combination of LEDs will illuminate.

All of the LEDs will be positioned together, at the end of the instrument, behind a large piece of shaped frosted plastic. So that when illuminated, especially when in combination, nice effects will be created, instead of a simple LED light.I feel that I can add extra complexity to this idea using 555 ICs and various combinations of capacitors and resistors to create blinking and fading in and out effects, which will add to the aesthetic appeal.

As for materiality and size, the instrument will be around the same size as a modern instrument such as the flute I previously mentioned. The shape will be very fluid in form and be made of glossy opaque plastic to give it a stylish modern look, will a frosted plastic end to create to lighting effect.