Vibrating pixel mirror

This object translates vibration into visual output through a grid of mirrored disks. It is configured similarly to an LED display but instead of LEDs turning off and on, the mirrors can be activated to distort the reflected image. This final prototype, reflects a great deal of experimentation with material and construction. There is further potential for expanding the concept to a larger scale. A larger grid of these “pixels” would allow for more complex animations and could also incorporate sound and movement-reactive features for a more immersive and engaging experience.

The pixels are made up of a mirrored acrylic mounted to a piece of thin steel wire which is attached to a mini vibe motor at the other end. The transitions between these parts are facilitated by additional pieces of laser cut acrylic.

These parts are mounted to a piece of 1/4″ rubber adhered to the back of the panel. The wires are inserted through holes pierced in the rubber which holds them firmly while not dampening the vibration.

The vibe motors are routed to the Arduino Uno through two 75HC595 Shift registers. The wiring diagram for this along with some basic sample code can be found here: http://www.arduino.cc/en/Tutorial/ShiftOut

And heres the instructables page: http://www.instructables.com/id/Vibrating-Pixels-Mechanical-Mirror/