| DESIGN NAME: Nirvana
 
 PRIMARY FUNCTION:
 Kinetic Sound Installation
 
 INSPIRATION:
 "Nirvana" is a word from the Buddhist concept of enlightenment and the role of rhythmic sound in spiritual practices. The Wooden Fish, traditionally used to maintain focus during meditation, symbolizes mindfulness and spiritual journey. This project demonstrates how technology can enhance and recontextualize spiritual practices. Merging Buddhist elements with contemporary art and technology invites viewers to contemplate their spiritual journey and the pursuit of inner peace.
 
 UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
 "Nirvana" is a kinetic sound installation merging Buddhist philosophy with technology, it reinterprets ancient spiritual practices, offering viewers a unique, technology-driven meditative experience that bridges the gap between traditional Buddhism and contemporary art. It features motorized Wooden Fish arranged in a matrix. These traditional instruments, crucial in East Asian Mahayana Buddhist rituals, are synchronized through physical computing.
 
 OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION:
 "Nirvana" is an autonomous installation that operates independently of audience presence. The Buddhist wooden fish instruments are continuously struck by motor-controlled mallets, generating an unceasing soundscape. This autonomous operation creates a powerful, immersive environment, drawing the audience into its rhythmic and spiritual essence.
 
 PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION:
 The project started in January 2024 in New York, finished in May 2024 in New York, and was exhibited in the ITP Spring Show in May 2024.
 
 
 | PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Realization Technology: Physical Computing
Materials: Solid Wood, Plywood, DC Motor, Sensor, Customized PCB Boards
 
 SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES:
 Each panel is 2' (W) by 8' (H).
 
 TAGS:
 Installation, Buddhism, Sound, Immersive, Physical Computing
 
 RESEARCH ABSTRACT:
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 CHALLENGE:
 The primary challenge was mastering physical computing to synchronize 96 motors for perfect operation. Another hurdle was developing a robust connection mechanism. This required multiple iterations of custom 3D-printed parts to securely grip the Wooden Fish and mallets. The design process involved several rounds of modifications before reaching the final version. Additionally, incorporating CNC technology to cut plywood presented its own set of challenges. These technical obstacles demanded innovative problem-solving, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern fabrication techniques to realize the ambitious vision of "Nirvana."
 
 ADDED DATE:
 2024-08-25 08:37:57
 
 TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
 
 
 IMAGE CREDITS:
 Video Credits: Qinghui Kong
 
 
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