The ensō is a Zen Buddhist symbol, typically drawn in one fluid motion, that denotes enlightenment, elegance, and continuity. Our ME218a project, named after this symbol, aimed to allow a user to create a unique pattern in one fluid, continuous motion. Unlike zen calligraphy, however, the pattern created is an ephemeral one; after completion, the pattern is displayed only briefly before it is cleared away.
The art consists of a black case, containing a rotating disk. In this disk, there is a thin layer of black sand.The art piece begins in a welcome phase. During this phase, red, green, and blue LEDs underneath the black sand cycle through a spectrum of colors, to both demonstrate the device’s capabilities, as well as welcome the user to begin an interaction. When the start button is pressed, the sixteen LEDs surrounding the outside of the disk turn on. These turn off in series over the course of 45 seconds, indicating the time passing in the drawing phase. During this phase, the user may use the stylus to draw a pattern in the rotating sand. This stylus is controlled with a slider potentiometer to the right of the wheel. The user may also change the color of the LEDs beneath the sand to change the mood of their pattern, or stop using the rotation of the wheel to either examine the pattern or create a more intricate pattern. The control of the LEDs is done through three rotational potentiometers to the left of the wheel. To stop the wheel, the user holds their hand over a proximity sensor.
When the drawing time expires, the rotation of the wheel stops and the user may view their pattern. They may continue to change the LED color. When the brief viewing phase ends, the rake is lowered by the servo, and resets the sand. The device then returns to the welcome mode for the next user.
Performance Video
Smart Product Demo: Ensō from John Whitworth on Vimeo.
Beautiful Patterns You Can Make