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Project Planning

Blowing Lantern (Virtual Candle)

Cultural Inspiration
A modern reinterpretation of lighting a traditional lantern or candle. Users “ignite” the light by blowing on a sensor, combining ritualistic interaction with technology.

Blowing Lantern

Connect the microphone’s output pin to an analogue input on the Arduino. Wire the LED (and a current-limiting resistor) to a PWM pin.
Attach a buzzer to a digital pin.
Upload & Calibrate Code

Program the Arduino to read the mic input and detect a “blow” based on a threshold.
Toggle the LED on/off when blowing is detected.
Adjust the threshold by monitoring serial output and refining in code.
Assemble the Lantern

Place the mic near an opening so it can detect airflow.
Position the LED(s) inside the lantern for a soft glow.
Secure all components and manage wires neatly.
Test & Refine

Blow into the opening and confirm the LED lights up or turns off.
Tweak the threshold to avoid false triggers from ambient noise.
Add a flicker effect or a brief sound for a more realistic candle experience.

Prayer Wheel Switch

Secure the rotary encoder so the prayer wheel’s rotation turns its shaft.
Ensure smooth spinning without excessive friction.
Wire the Circuit

Program the Arduino using an encoder library or manual interrupt-based reading.
Map rotation counts to LED brightness.
Monitor serial output to confirm the encoder counts steps correctly.
Assemble & Decorate

Integrate the encoder in the prayer wheel base or shaft.
Place LEDs where they can shine upward or outward.
Add traditional designs or mantras for cultural authenticity.
Refine Interaction

Adjust code so each full rotation gradually increases brightness.
Set a target number of rotations (8) for maximum light or a special effect.
Add audio (chanting or bell sounds) when certain milestones are reached.

Reference