This writeup is a work in progress. I will be updating it with more details in the coming months.
Overview
The Interactive LED Matrix is a modular, expandable display system that responds to user interaction through infrared sensing. Each panel contains an array of RGB LEDs and IR sensors, allowing the display to detect hand gestures and proximity to create reactive visual effects.
The system is designed to be tiled — multiple panels can be connected together to create larger interactive displays of any size.
The display feels natural and elegant to use, with a fluidity and interactivity that feels human like. There is also a web interface that can be used to control the display from a mobile phone when a WiFi extension is attached to the display.
Hardware Design
Each panel consists of:
- RGB LED Array: Addressable WS2812B LEDs
- IR Sensors: Infrared proximity sensors for detecting hand position
- Microcontroller: Processes sensor data and drives LED animations
- Interconnects: Allows panels to communicate and synchronize
The modular design means adding more panels is as simple as connecting them together — the system automatically detects the configuration.
IR Sensing
The infrared sensing system enables:
- Proximity Detection: Detect how close a hand is to the surface
- Position Tracking: Track hand movement across the display
- Multi-Touch: Multiple interaction points simultaneously
Features
- Expandable: Tile multiple panels for larger displays
- Reactive Animations: Visual effects respond to interaction
- Customizable: Program your own animations and interactions
- Low Latency: Real-time response to user input
- Standalone Operation: No computer required after programming