This section discusses the proof of concept of a Mini Piezoelectric Dance Floor, implemented by Suchir Kalra.
Background
Dance floors are spaces where repetitive tapping and movement take place for hours on hours and tend to be crowded. This makes them an apt space for the installation of piezoelectric elements due to the high cumulative pressure and frequency of tapping. This mechanical stress can be harnessed by piezoelectric sensors, which convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. The energy generated by the dancers' movements can be harvested and utilized for various purposes, such as powering lights, or generating music.
Moreover, installing piezoelectric sensors on dance floors can create interactive and engaging experiences for dancers and spectators alike. The energy generated by the dancers' movements can be used to trigger dynamic lighting effects, generate music or sound effects, or even trigger visual projections. This integration of technology and artistry enhances the overall ambiance and immersiveness of the dance floor environment, elevating the experience for everyone involved.
In this proof of concept, a simple notebook-sized piezoelectric dance floor has been implemented by connecting 4 piezoelectric sensors in parallel to three 12 V bright LED Lights. This has been a successful implementation.
Dance Floor Proof of Concept (Interior)
Side views of the Dance Floor Model
View from the top
Demonstration
Mini Piezoelectric Dance Floor Proof of Concept Video
Materials used
4 Piezoelectric Sensors/Transducers
5 Low Voltage Jumper Wires
3 12 V LED Lights
4 identical Bottle Caps
4 Glue Gun Finger caps (can be cut from the glue gun sticks)
Wooden Plank
PVC/Wooden Sheet (Should be same size as the Wooden Plank)
Soldering Iron Kit (with Soldering wire)
Glue Gun
Wire Stripper
Steps Involved
Cut the top layering from the Cap in order for there to be hole in the cap. This hole should be same size as the piezoelectric sensor.
Stick the piezoelectric sensor on each cap with a glue gun.
Stick the cap now to the wooden plank making sure each sensor is equidistant to each other.
Solder the Jumper wires on to the Piezoelectric sensors. One solder has to be on the positive terminal and the other on the negative terminal.
Stick the Finger caps onto the bottle caps.
Connect the sensors in parallel to each other.
Connect the sensors to the LED Lights
Use the PVC/Wooden Sheet as an upper layer to hit against the piezoelectric sensors.
