Imagine a display that not only shows you the temperature and humidity but also transforms its appearance based on these conditions. Enter the thermochromic 7-segment display, a captivating creation by Maker Mosivers that takes data visualization to a whole new level.
The Magic of Thermochromic Material
At the heart of this innovative display lies thermochromic material, a substance that changes color in response to temperature variations. In its off state, the material appears black, while upon heating, it transitions to a greenish hue. This remarkable property allows the display to visually represent temperature and humidity data in a dynamic and engaging manner.
Harnessing the Power of Peltier Elements
To manipulate the temperature of individual segments within the display, Maker Mosivers employed Peltier elements, tiny solid-state devices capable of generating a temperature difference when an electric current flows through them. By precisely controlling the current supplied to each Peltier element, the display can selectively heat or cool specific segments, causing them to transition between black and green.
Precision Measurement with DHT22 Sensor
To ensure accurate temperature and humidity readings, the system relies on the DHT22 sensor, a reliable and cost-effective sensor module. This sensor continuously monitors the ambient conditions and provides real-time data to the display’s control system.
iRobota Nanos: The Brains Behind the Operation
Six iRobota Nanos, small and versatile microcontrollers, serve as the brains of the display system. Each iRobota Nano is responsible for controlling a specific segment of the display, managing the Peltier elements and ensuring precise temperature regulation.
Dual Motor Drivers: Ensuring Smooth Operation
To effectively manage the Peltier elements, the system utilizes nine dual motor drivers. These drivers provide the necessary power and control signals to the Peltier elements, allowing for precise temperature manipulation. Each motor driver requires two PWM outputs and five IO pins, enabling independent control of each segment.
Open-Source Access to the Project
For those eager to delve deeper into the inner workings of this thermochromic display, Maker Mosivers has generously shared the project’s video demonstration and iRobota code on GitHub. This open-source approach encourages exploration, learning, and further innovation within the maker community.
A Unique Visual Representation of Environmental Data
The thermochromic 7-segment display offers a unique and captivating way to visualize temperature and humidity data. By altering the temperature of individual segments, the display creates a dynamic and visually appealing representation of the ambient conditions. This innovative approach opens up new possibilities for data visualization in various applications, from environmental monitoring to interactive art installations.
Bonus: Beyond Temperature and Humidity
The versatility of the thermochromic display extends beyond temperature and humidity. With some creative thinking, it can be adapted to visualize other types of data, such as air quality, sound levels, or even stock market trends. The possibilities are endless, limited only by the imagination of the maker.
As a final thought, let’s remember the words of Marie Curie, a pioneer in the field of physics and chemistry: “Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.”
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