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CDM45 - Compact Dream Machine
 

Idea - Inspired by Brian Gysin and Ian Sommerville’s DreamMachine (1961) we created a light show/sculpture that can be used by anyone without any programming or electronics knowledge. The device runs on three 9V batteries.

Concept - The original DreamMachine used a record player and a lamp to create a hypnagogic effect to be viewed with eyes closed. Our project, on the other hand, is much more interactive. It is based on the interface with the user, and his or her contribution, and therefore needed to be particularly user-friendly.

Usability - The device's portability, its 4 switch interface, as well as its potentiometer make it user-friendly. The users simply need to modify a CD, by either drawing on it, scratching it, placing tape over it or by any other means imaginable, and then “play” the CD by placing it in the front of the CDM45. They can then manipulate the speed of the spin, and choose which LEDs/colors they wish to turn on behind the CD. The light passes through the CD, creating an original lighting effect that can be viewed in a dark room, thus creating the desired ambiance.

By: Jason Roussel & Drausio R. Haddad
1. Prototype and Material
An initial paper-based prototype was used to verify the dimensions and feasibility of the project.

2 Red Led (2.5V each)
2 Green Led (2.0V each)
2 Blue Led 94.0V each)
4 Toggle Switches (3 small for the LED circuitsm and one larger for the main Power)
1 Potentiometer (to modulate the speed of the CD rotation)
1 Dc Motor 3V (to make the CD rotate)
3 Batteries (9.0V each, to power the device)
 


2. Woodwork & Switches




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3. Designing the circuit and code

Arduino Code to control the potentiometer

int bright = 5;
 int ledpin = 3;
 int val = 0;

void setup(){
 pinMode(ledpin, OUTPUT);
 Serial.begin(9600);
}

void loop() {
 val = analogRead(bright);
 Serial.println(val);
 val = val/4;
 analogWrite(ledpin, val);
}
 
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4. Final and making it work