Creating a Huge Buzz with the Hive
The Hive is an array of interactive tangibles designed using biomimicry principles. It is comprised of plywood “clusters”, each of which is composed of three hexagons (13.0 cm x 14.8 cm x 13.3 cm) and houses the electronic components that regulate the interactive behaviour of the installation.
Each cluster contains sensors which react to other clusters, as well as a participant’s handling of a cluster. For example, rotating a cluster could cause an RGB LED mounted inside the device to cycle through a rainbow of colours. Magnets on the back of the clusters let participants position these on a metallic surface, essentially constructing honeycomb shapes of their choosing.
Technique used: Interactive Installation.
Overview
The Hive has two purposes: first, to find ways to use the characteristics of a honeybee and its honeycombs as an interactive medium and second, to provide participants with simple and easy-to-understand forms that, when arranged in a pattern, transform an indoor space into a metaphorical glimpse of the mosaic in which a honeybee views the world. Essentially, the Hive’s clusters acted like a paintbrush or pixels that participants could use to create shapes using a system based on organic traits.
The Hive also works well for interactive or architectural display purposes. For example, it could be used in a mall or restaurant, where patrons can interact with the clusters and have their pictures taken with it – it makes for a fun, unique background for pictures. It also works well as an educational piece, where bee-themed content can be paired with it.
The Go2 innovations lab is constantly working on immersive art installations that are unique, customizable and never been seen before.
