Interactive Diorama
Chenghong Tang
Advisor: Theo Ellin Ballew
My project aims to create interactive dioramas by incorporating sensors and technology to enhance user engagement through immersive experiences.
Abstract
The project is designed as an interactive diorama game that functions similarly to a board game. Players engage with the game by following audio instructions and visual cues to navigate and complete each level sequentially. This leveled structure ensures that players must clear one area before progressing to the next. The game concludes after players successfully complete the final level, providing a structured and immersive gameplay experience.
Technical Details
This is a diorama game that uses magnet reed switches, photoresistors, and button/sliders for object interaction. These components will be separated and assigned to different Arduino nano33 devices based on the game areas. The Arduino devices will then send signals to a Unity server to trigger projection mapping from Madmapper. Since I am already using Unity, I may as well use it to play audio based on the player's decision. The current play-through of the game will be stored and tracked on the Unity server.
Research/Context
Whenever I am given the opportunity to be creative, I am consistently drawn to crafting miniatures. Their scale, whether diminutive or expansive, showcases the creator's prowess in animating a 'small world.' My fascination not only involves observing these intricate models but also interacting with them physically. This admiration sparked the concept for my final PCOM course project: an interactive miniature featuring three dynamic locations. Building on this foundational work, my current ambition is to scale this idea up substantially. I aim to evolve beyond mere mechanical interactions and LED displays; my vision is to weave storytelling, projection mapping, and Arduino-driven sensors into a narrative that mimics the immersive experience of a game or an escape-room-style board game.
To enhance the interactivity of my dioramas, I frequently explore YouTube and Arduino forums for innovative sensor applications. Additionally, I utilize visual guides from YouTube to master the art of crafting realistic miniatures, ensuring that each element not only represents, but actively contributes to the narrative journey.