Artisanal Circuit

The "Artisanal Circuit" is an electronic sculpture that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern digital techniques. It consists of freeform wiring, RGB LEDs, and a light sensor, creating an interactive artwork that reacts to ambient light. The piece demonstrates how contrasting concepts can coexist, merging artistic expression with functional electronics.

Steps

Difficulty
9
Tools
  • KiCad
  • Rhino
  • Illustrator
  • Arduino IDE
  • Mods
  • CNC Software
  • 3D Printer Software
  • Laser Cutter Software
  • Terminal/Command Line Tools
  • Multimeter
Materials
  • Wood: A3 3mm plywood sheet
  • Electronics: RGB LEDs, resistors, voltage regulator, USB mini, etc.
  • Others: Brass copper tubes, masking tape, blue fabric cable
Duration
4 h

Step 01.

Planning

This video showcases the entire process, from circuit prototyping and PCB design to sculpting and programming interactive features. Discover how contrasts like artisanal-digital and light-dark come together in this unique artwork!

Step 02.

Prototyping

Start with a simple prototype using a breadboard:

  • Use two RGB LEDs and connect each one with a corresponding resistor.

  • Test connections and practice soldering wires in the air, ensuring connections don’t touch.

  • Choose appropriate resistor values: typically, 220 ohms for green and blue, and 330 ohms for red.

Step 03.

PCB Design and Fabrication

Design the circuit board using KiCad:

  • Choose a microcontroller (SAMD11), a voltage regulator, and other necessary components (photoresistor, MOSFETs, etc.).

  • Create traces, outlines, and holes for the board, considering component placement.

  • Cut the PCB using a CNC machine. Use different end mills for traces (1/64) and outlines/holes (1/32).

  • Solder components onto the board and test connections with a multimeter.

Bill of Materials

2D and 3D design A3 3mm Plywood sheet: 3€ A3 3mm Plywood sheet: 20€ Electronics 26 RGB Leds: 25,56€ 52 220ohms resistors: 15,16€(0.30€ each) 26 220ohms resistors: 10,4€(0.40€ each) USB mini: 0.57€ Multilayer Ceramic Capacitor: 0.11€ ATSAMD10D13A-SSUT: 1.62€ 4 Resistors: 0.44€ 3 Mosfets: 0.57€ Screw Connector: 2.20€ Voltage Regulator: 0.79€ Screw Connector: 2.20€ Vertical Pin header: 0.82€ Others Blue cable fabric: 9.9€ 2A Single Pole Switch Mounted Transparent: 1.95€ Masking tape: 2€ 100 pieces Multi Hole Brass Copper Tubes(0.8mmX400mm):5,05€

Step 04.

Programming the Microcontroller

Program the microcontroller using Arduino:

  • Write code that reads the ambient light using a photoresistor.

  • Program the RGB LEDs to gradually fade on when light levels fall below a certain threshold, and change color with each cycle.

  • Test and debug the program to ensure proper LED behavior.

int led = 14;         // the PWM pin the LED is attached to
int brightness = 0;  // how bright the LED is
int fadeAmount = 5;  // how many points to fade the LED by

// the setup routine runs once when you press reset:
void setup() {
  // declare pin 9 to be an output:
  pinMode(led, OUTPUT);
  Serial.begin(9600)
}

// the loop routine runs over and over again forever:
void loop() {
  // set the brightness of pin 9:
  analogWrite(led, brightness);

  Serial.println(brightness)

  // change the brightness for next time through the loop:
  brightness = brightness + fadeAmount;

  // reverse the direction of the fading at the ends of the fade:
  if (brightness <= 0 || brightness >= 255) {
    fadeAmount = -fadeAmount;
  }
  // wait for 30 milliseconds to see the dimming effect
  delay(30);
}

Step 05.

Designing the Sculpture

Design the layout and shape of the sculpture using Rhino:

  • Plan the positions of the 26 LEDs and create a symmetrical pattern.

  • Design the wiring paths for ground, red, green, and blue connections.

  • Create a simplified oval layout for consistency and to manage complexity.

Step 06.

Creating a Wooden Guide

Prepare a wooden guide using laser cutting:

  • Export the design from Rhino to Illustrator, cleaning up the lines and organizing layers for LEDs, wires, and outlines.

  • Laser cut the guide from 4mm MDF wood.

  • Use color markers to label different sections for RGB connections.

Step 07.

Assembly

Assemble the sculpture using brass copper tubes:

  • Cut and bend the tubes, securing them to the MDF guide with masking tape.

  • Solder the ground wires first, followed by the RGB connections.

  • Add resistors to the connections and ensure that intersecting wires are properly insulated.

Step 08.

Final Programming

Finish programming the Arduino:

  • Refine the code for smoother fading effects and precise color transitions.

  • Implement serial communication for debugging and monitoring sensor values.

Step 09.

Building the Case

Create an acrylic case to encase the sculpture:

  • Design the case in Rhino and cut it with a laser cutter from 3mm acrylic.

  • Assemble the case using acrylic glue and 3D print corner pieces to house magnets for the lid.

  • Include holes for cables and wall mounting.