Ripple effect
-- Interactive Reflections on Influence and Connection
Perceptual Interaction Design｜Interactive Art Installation
Inspired by The Book of Songs — “When the river is clear, its ripples shine”, this work draws from the metaphor of water ripples, where even the slightest touch expands outward into the distance.
Ripple Effect explores the theme of influence and connection, examining how individual actions subtly interact with and shape their surrounding environment. By simulating the moment a droplet meets still water, the installation reflects how small gestures can generate far-reaching impact, inviting viewers to contemplate their own presence and responsibility in the world.
Team Project (3 Members) — Role: Team Leader Led the team by initiating the core concept, defining the project direction, conducting form design and technical experiments, and managing task allocation and progress across all stages.
Tools: Arduino
In the stillness of a lake, even the slightest tremor can stir ripples across the water—concentric waves that gradually extend, reaching far into the distance.
“The river runs clear, and its surface ripples.” — Book of Songs · Wei Wind · Replacing the Cypress
Even the smallest act can stir great waves.
The ripple effect is present in every aspect of life.
Centering on the theme of “Influence and Connection,” this work explores the dynamic interplay between individual actions and the surrounding environment.
By simulating the moment a droplet falls and ripples across the water’s surface, it conveys how even the tiniest gesture can generate profound and far-reaching impact within broader social and ecological systems—prompting viewers to reflect on their own actions and the unseen consequences they may set in motion.
01 INITIAL IDEATION
02 BASIC FORM GENERATION
The ripple level shape is divided and summarized
03 INTERACTION PRINCIPLES
04 PROGRAM TESTING
4.1 Multiple LDR-based control
4.2 Single LDR control
05 DEVICE FABRICATION PROCESS
Production process
06 FINAL EFFECT SHOWCASE
“TOUCH”
“Ripple Effect” employs photoresistors and flowing LED lighting effects to simulate the visual dynamics of water ripples. Groups of sensors are embedded within the interactive platform, each associated with a specific ripple element. When a viewer touches a ripple, the corresponding photoresistor detects a change in ambient light, triggering the linked LED lights to generate an expanding ripple effect, emulating the natural diffusion of water. Each ripple varies in shape and size, producing a unique pattern of light with every interaction. When multiple viewers engage simultaneously, the overlapping ripples intertwine, creating a more intricate and visually captivating display.
“Ripple Effect” employs photoresistors and flowing LED lighting effects to simulate the visual dynamics of water ripples. Groups of sensors are embedded within the interactive platform, each associated with a specific ripple element. When a viewer touches a ripple, the corresponding photoresistor detects a change in ambient light, triggering the linked LED lights to generate an expanding ripple effect, emulating the natural diffusion of water. Each ripple varies in shape and size, producing a unique pattern of light with every interaction. When multiple viewers engage simultaneously, the overlapping ripples intertwine, creating a more intricate and visually captivating display.