Samantha Moore

Interactive Insect Display

I am a huge fan of entomology displays, and wanted to create one that is interactive. When the copper tape on the surface of the frame is touched, the butterflies illuminate through a capacitive touch sensor. The blank white strip of paper to the side of each butterfly shows the name, scientific and common, for a bit of unexpected learning.

I created a box frame that is deep enough to house the paper butterflies along with the Arduino and breadboard. I would liked to have made a larger version with a ton of insects but three ended up being a challenge in itself.

Here is the display in action:

Interactive Entomology Display Inspiration

I want to build off of my past work of framed paper butterflies, but make an entire interactive insect display. This would include beetles, hoppers, (neither of which I have made before) butterflies, etc. that would be framed and meant for the wall of a museum or nature center. Around the frame will be copper tape that not only acts as a decorative element, but also a sensor for the individual insects and their name plates to light up with LEDs.

I am exploring different types of interactive, educational displays and want to make something that is appealing, informative and beautiful.

Plush Bacon and Frying Pan

I went with my original plan of creating a plush frying pan that would simulate bacon cooking. Who doesn’t enjoy the smell, taste and sound of crackling bacon? I used an Arduino to create the flickering effect and attached a button that when pressed, causes the bacon to light up.

I added a hole to the handle for easy hanging on a pot rack or wall and the bacon is lit by LED lights

Stoves are obviously dangerous for children, as is splattering oil, so I could see this toy being great for kids who want to help cook breakfast (or breakfast for dinner)! This could also be a good solution for those who do not have a stove in their tiny NY apartment and miss having bacon in their life. In addition, I could see this being THE go to gift for a lumberjack baby shower. If I took this idea further I would add a speaker that plays crackling sounds when the button is pressed and perhaps some sort of smoky bacon scent.

Plush Toys

Here is a sampling of our plush toys from class – skills!

Sizzling bacon

For my night light I plan on making a plush frying pan and two strips of bacon. When the bacon is placed on the frying pan, they will flicker with light to imitate sizzling. I am not quite sure how to do this yet but will explore solutions.

Alexander Wang Spring 2013

For the finale of Alexander Wang’s Spring 2013 show, all of the clothes hit the runway one last time. The lights dimmed and the model’s outfits lit up to add to the futuristic vibe.

Disco Chair

This chair by Kiki and Pom is made of electroluminescent wire that glows when turned on – FUN!

Fox Lamp

This is an example of a DIY plush night light in the form of a handsome fox. The tutorial can be seen here.

Mini Owl Treat Boxes

I thought this tutorial was appropriate for the season, and fit with mine since both require a downloaded template. I like that this tutorial includes a “quick tip” if you want to speed up the process. Some people are crunched for time and this tip could be most helpful!

Ephemera Collage Valentine

This tutorial appeals to me mostly because of the images. Every photo from beginning to end is beautifully shot and styled. Also, the author shows photos of the greeting card in a couple different contexts.