I AM SENSOR is a DIY experimental audio ensemble constructed and performed by the MA/MSC Interactive Digital Media candidates of Ravensbourne, London.

The collective consists of life-size, wearable sensors.

Each band member built and programmed their “instrument” using Arduino microcontrollers to trigger unique audio when the sensor is activated by a prescribed body movement.

The BüTtons riff on one of the world’s most classic sensors: the Button. Under each foot the basic principles of a button sensor were utilised, using only wire, sponge, and cardboard, to allow the wearer’s gait to become the percussion. Can be performed upright while walking, or while seated similar to kick-drums.

The diagram denotes the simple circuit that is completed with each step.

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The Flexi((a is worn strapped to the bicep, elbow, and wrist, emitting audio when the wearer bends their arm.  The  diagram shows how the circuit is activated at the axis of the elbow, by allowing two conductive surfaces (copper tape) close enough to each other through a membrane of semi-conductive material. (paper covered in graphite.)

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The Twitch functions as a giant tilt sensor, and is triggered when the wearer leans their torso in one direction or the other.  Only through this action can the conductive ball reach either end, allowing the circuit to complete, as seen in the diagram.

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The AnemomeHelmet can be spun by hand or powered by nature.

Like the devices used to measure wind speed, a reed sensor is built into a propeller. One of the propeller blades houses a magnet, so with each rotation the circuit completes, informing the audio response.


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MY ROLE

I played several crucial parts in the I AM SENSOR ensemble. First, I built and programmed my own giant version of a flex sensor, which became Flexi((a. I borrowed the principles of a flex sensor’s functionality and magnified them into a wearable instrument.

I also created the infographics for each instrument, as seen throughout this page. These diagrams were not only part of the performance and discussion afterwards, but utlised in the Instructional “Zine”, printed and distributed to the audience. The Zine was also my design & construction, an task that included writing the majority of the copy used to explain how each sensor and circuit works, plus the processes used to build our giant, wearable DIY versions. Check it out!