Opto-Interrupter
Unlike previous versions, Anthesizer IV does not utilize piezo microphones as sensors. Instead, it uses opto-interrupters. An opto-interrupter works by detecting interruptions in a light beam between an emitter and a detector, which occurs when an ant passes through and blocks the light.
Four Nests, One Outworld
Photography by Abraham
There are four nests positioned around a central outworld, interconnected with clear tubing. The clear tubing allows both audience observation and opto-interrupter detection of ant movements. Each nest is assigned its own distinct sound algorithm, combining noise wavetable synthesis and tropical additive synthesis.
To mix the sound between the four nests, I used vector synthesis technique. When a nest is triggered, it dynamically adjusts the mixer towards the corresponding nest, altering the soundscape based on the detected movements.
Eight Opto-interrupters,
Eight LEDs
I used a Daisy Seed and the Arduino IDE to interface with the opto-interrupters, LEDs, and to transmit signals to MaxMSP via serial communication using DaisyDuino. Given the limited number of analog inputs on the Daisy Seed, I employed a 74HC4051 multiplexer to connect multiple opto-interrupters.
