Living Architecture Fall 2008 Columbia

this is our first attempt at prototyping a modular unit to occupy our various locations/scenarios. the standalone unit allows the flexinol lens cover to obscure and reveal a camera based on the given sound input threshold, while the led reacts with pulse width modulation to the same sound source. the opacity of the mylar describes a location for possible video playback from other module sources, giving the unit the ability to record and capture video/sound, as well as project video/sound from other units. the low tech flexinol lens cover is revealed in a way that makes the act of recording explicit, while the variations in led intensity begin to reinforce the understanding of sound as input.  the systems within the unit are contained yet don't attempt to become hidden surveillance. we're more interested in the possibility for a feedback loop with hopes that the input and playback might begin to play an interactive role with the behavior of the people passing by. 

in this video, the flexinol's reaction to sound are only slight. this was mostly due to the acrylic melting upon contact with the heated wire. (by the way, that song is silent kid - pavement)