Utilizing my knowledge of 3D modeling, printing, and Arduino circuitry I created an interactive art installation for the ATLAS EXPO ‘25. Inspired by lotus flowers, guests would approach the flower’s proximity sensor causing the 3D modeled piston system to open the flower’s petals.

KAI LIEN Adamchak

kailien.adamchak@gmail.com

01 3D Modeling

02 Programming + Arduino

For this project I mainly used the platform OnShape, a web based solids modeler that allows for collaborative work. From start to finish the design for the project’s main mechanism went through many iterations some of which are pictured here. In the end the project allowed for me to practice iterative design, as well as the nuances and tolerances required to create a product that can move in multiple ways.

I also modeled more decorative elements such as the petals and vase that really brought the whole piece together. Each petal is also attached to the main mechanism using a ball and socket joint. This was my first time 3D printing a socket joint and I had to take into account the tolerance of PLA, the material I was using to print. At one point I tested a different version of the socket that was printed with TPU instead and did not find it to be as effective. Instead I stuck with PLA and modeled the socket to have slits on each side to allow for the plastic to bend enough to insert the “ball.”

Other than the main mechanism visible in the middle of the piece there is also a system inside the flower’s vase that converts the rotational motion from a servo to a piston motion that is used by the main mechanism.

The Arduino circuit used for this project consisted of an Arduino Uno, small bread board, ultrasonic sensor and servo motor output. The circuit and corresponding code were rather simple. All Arduinos are programmed in a C++ based library.

03 Final Product