The process of learning the fundamentals of physical computing. This is an example of making something that does not feel particularly relevant to my practice to apply this knowledge to my idea. Using the Bela tutorials I have learnt to code visual objects such as LED, subsequently, I will adjust the circuit to become a sound output instead of a light output. I am exploring the relationship between physical movement (pushing button) and technological response (light from LED, or in future speakers), this interaction will become much more interesting to me with sound.

The flashing LED light is automated by a metronome object in pure date. Made using: Bela board, 2 wires, LED, 240 resistor and Pure Data (PD patch below).

LED light controlled by a button. Made using: Bela board, 4 wires, LED, button, 2 240 resistors, and Pure Data.

I have begun to incorporate movement and sound interactions in PureData and Bela board with a one-button drum machine but did not get any documentation of the physical circuit working. I used Pure Data abstractions to create a sub-patch, to start with the button would trigger ‘kick’ when down. I adjusted this to make the button play ‘kick’ when down and ‘snare’ when up (PD patch below).

Using a sub-patch meant I could use a Pure Data patch in multiple different projects easily and adjust the code when necessary. Sub-patches will be useful in upcoming projects, especially when experimenting with different physical ways to represent the sonic material I have made.