Hanna Bremerich, Fiene Freist: Difference between revisions

During our project, we used Visual Studio Code and Arduino to program and control motors based on sensor data. Our first challenge was to determine how the motor should move. We aimed to ensure that the motors moved only once per activation, producing a single tone. To achieve this, we created an initial test code to establish how to instruct the motor to move right when it was on the left and vice versa.

Next, we needed to develop a pattern to simulate incoming sensor data. The second test code introduced random numbers to help us determine a trigger value for the motors. This was combined with our previous motor movement code to create a preliminary response system.

We then worked on enabling two motors to move independently. To accomplish this, we implemented two different random numbers so that each motor would move at different trigger values. Adjustments were made to delay times to introduce a more natural, randomized effect.

To acquire real sensor data, we opted for an MQ-2 gas sensor, which detects combustible gases. We initially attempted to retrieve analog output values from one sensor. Since the raw sensor data wasn’t as representative as we needed, we decided to convert the readings into ppm (parts per million) for more meaningful analysis.

The next step was to replace our previously used random numbers with actual gas concentration values measured by the sensor. We then expanded the system to incorporate six sensors and six motors, which required multiple iterations to perfect. A major challenge was implementing all sensor values, motors, and their corresponding variables into a function that allowed each sensor-motor pair to operate independently. We replaced the general delay time in the loop with millis() to enhance performance and flexibility.

After measuring the gas concentrations produced by plants over time, we made several adjustments to optimize the installation. Each motor was assigned an individual trigger value based on the gas readings from its respective sensor. Since sensor readings were taken at short intervals and did not fluctuate significantly, motors would have been triggered too frequently, leading to excessive noise. To mitigate this, we introduced individual delay times for each motor before they could be triggered again. To create a more natural and less predictable sound pattern, we introduced a "random factor." This factor was recalculated with each sensor reading and multiplied by the motor’s delay time, ensuring a more varied and pleasant auditory experience.

Debugging print commands were added to the code to help monitor sensor functionality when connected to a computer. These were primarily for troubleshooting and not necessary for the final public installation. Although the code could have been optimized for brevity, we chose to keep it more detailed to maintain a clear overview of all sensors, motors, and timing adjustments. In the end, our system successfully produced tones in a random frequency, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

* mq-2 sensor for combustible gas