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What is it?

Lumofracto is a cluster formation of various 3-D polyhedral and pyramid paper shapes, with different textures and patterns added to the different faces. The structure mimics the complex crystalline structure of crystal cave formations. The formation gains life when light is shone through it by incandescent lights, from which a passerby can visually see the energy usage of Baker Hall, one of the main academic buildings on Carnegie Mellon University's campus. A high luminosity indicates sustainable energy usage while a low luminosity indicates wasteful energy usage. This structure was made to bring awareness of energy consumption in Baker Hall and allow for an aesthetic display of it.

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Worthwhile?

People are oblivious to how much energy they use a day, and even if they are not, they are unable to track all of their energy usage precisely. There is no easy way to explain it, or show it, unless it is done through complex API data or algorithms. We made it so complex API energy data could be easily interpreted based off of an aesthetic light installation. An ambient structure, which would be spanned from a ceiling or mounted on a wall, this model can thrive anywhere a person places it. By using different levels of light intensity, an interesting and provocative structure evolves, which indicates the API energy data usage, through high and low light intensity. Low light intensity shone through the structure indicates wasteful energy usage, while high light intensity reflects highly sustainable energy usage. Lumofracto is interesting and makes an effort to simplify the process of understanding how much energy is wasted or used, visually, while also creating an awareness through the viewing of the organic form.

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Insights:

By addressing the question of Integrated Energy Awareness, through the construction of Lumofracto, a lot of insights were gained. From a design perspective, the shape was constantly manipulated, while different types of material were used for experimentation, including, Yupo Paper, Printer Paper, and Dichroic film. Through various experimentation with diverse forms, it became easier, more obvious to understand what individuals would find appealing to look at, and what form would be the most doable. A complex, inorganic shape, is more likely to adapt to a space than a stiff set one, and will be more appealing to individuals walking by. Through the manipulation of light, form, code, and other mediums, we found a balance. Using a Raspberry Pi, proved to be less efficient than an Arduino Uno that connected directly to DMX lights. There is nothing more appealing than having smooth transitions, and a simple form that anyone can appreciate. Lumofracto, will definitely shine light into your life.

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