Malachite is a light installation created for OFF: Roots United 8 Years event, that took place in St. Petersburg on September 23 2017. It was a part of stage and located behind the DJ booth.

Project was inspired by “russian mosaic” masterpieces, that can be found in pre-revolutionary aristocratic interiors in St. Petersburg. A number of stonemasons of that period used carefully selected thin slices of malachite to cover inner walls and interior details with massive continuous black-green patterns. Combination of green laser light and artificial haze produces similar effect.

We developed a lightweight module-based system, that consists of 33 triangle aluminium frames with green laser mounted inside each segment. Modules were assembled in a 2-dimensional diamond-shape structure (5x5 meters) that was mounted on the ceiling. Generative laser animation was synchronised with dj-sets in real-time. Decorative constructions of the dance-hall were made by our sketches.

Created kit of triangle modules allows to create wide variety of flat and volumetric structures, providing flexibility at the shape-creation process and easy setup at the venue.

Technical Implementation: Laser Arrays and Generative Haze

The project reveals the hidden layers of a sophisticated sensing-to-visual interaction system:

• Identification & Control Layer: The Arduino Mega 2560 acts as the high-resolution central controller, interpreting generative animation data and dispatching precise commands to each laser module.
• Conversion Layer: The system uses the Arduino's high-speed digital pins to generate PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) signals, enabling precise control over the laser intensity and timing for mission-critical visual patterns.
• Visual Interface Layer: The grid of 33 Triangle Modules provides the high-definition visual output, forming the data dashboard for the installation's status.
• Processing Logic: The Arduino code follows a "temporal-patterns" strategy: it runs generative algorithms and maps the resulting data to laser states, creating a safe and rhythmic visual mosaic synchronized with music.
• Communication & Calibration: Telemetry data is sent via the Serial Monitor during the initial system calibration and setup to coordinate status and ensure synchronization.

Hardware-Creative Infrastructure

• Arduino Mega 2560: The "brain" of the project, managing the multi-channel laser control and coordinating with peripheral systems like the haze machine.
• Green Laser Modules: Provide the clear and reliable light source for each point in the visual pattern.
• FET / Relay Shield: Provides the high-capacity, reliable physical interface needed to switch the power for each laser module safely.
• Aluminum Frames: Essential for providing a clear, lightweight, and energy-efficient structural support for the modular setup.
• Artificial Haze Machine: Provides a clear and professional medium to make the laser beams visible in air, essential for the "light emission" effect.
• Micro-USB Cable: Used to program the Arduino and serves as the primary interface for the system controller.

System Automation and Interaction

The generative laser control process is designed for efficiency:

1. Initialize Workspace: Assemble the laser modules within their aluminum frames at the venue and connect them to the designated Arduino output pins.
2. Setup Output Sync: In the Arduino sketch, initialize all laser control pins using pinMode() and define the core generative animation algorithms within the setup() function.
3. Main Control Loop: The system constantly runs high-performance periodic loops in the loop() function, updating each laser's status in real-time based on the active generative pattern.
4. Visual and Data Feedback: Monitor the serial output for rhythmic status signals and telemetry, which pulse in sync with the animation and room location settings.

Future Expansion

• OLED Identity Dashboard: Add a small OLED display to the master control module to show the "Active Pattern" name or system status like "Battery (%)".
• Multi-sensor Audio Sync: Integrate a sound sensor to enable higher-precision, audio-reactive logic, allowing the lasers to respond directly to music dynamics.
• Cloud Interface & Logging: Implement a web dashboard accessible via smartphone over WiFi/BT to remotely monitor, control, and log the installation's operational history.
• Advanced Pattern Customization: Incorporate machine learning algorithms to allow the visual patterns and triggers to adapt automatically based on environmental factors or user interaction.

[!IMPORTANT] The Green Laser Modules require an accurate FET switching circuit for safe control. Always ensure you have appropriate Laser Safety Glasses and carefully manage the Haze Density in the environment to avoid potential eye damage!

Malachite Laser Installation is a perfect project for any enthusiast looking to create a more interactive and engaging large-scale visual tool!