YEAR
2024
TYPE
Exhibition Design
COOPERATION
Art University Linz
(Industrial Design)
JKU Linz
(Institute of Polymer Production)
TEAM LEADERS
Martin Reiter
Florian Nimmervoll
Mario Zeppetzauer
TEAM
Michael Lackner
Verena Langthaler
Sebastian Lämmermann
Theresa Rubenzucker
Liam Wohlwend
Neural Neighborhood
This interactive installation blends art and science using life-sized silicone brains based on R&D models for brain surgery training. Small interactions create a profound, dynamic beauty and mirror our interconnected world.
Inspired by Conway's Game of Life, transparent 3D-printed brains create intricate patterns. Each individual cell glows in a vibrant hue and gets influenced by its neighbors. Simplicity generates complexity.
#interaction #exhibition #technology
Video: IPPE JKU
Neural Neighborhood was showcased at the Ars Electronica Festival 2024 at the MedCampus.
Photo : Martin Reiter
SCIENTIFIC CONTEXT
Neurosurgeons need to understand the brains complexity and its billions of interacting neurons. To avoid unintended consequences, life-saving operations must be practiced on realistic models.
In the MEDUSA project, researchers and industry partners in Upper Austria are developing a surgical simulator that combines 3D-printed models with virtual reality, enhancing safety in neurosurgery.
Design & Construction of the Installation
Photos : IPPE JKU
The installation presents an arrangement of 3D-printed small transparent brains, each interconnected with its immediate neighbors.
Each brain is equipped with RGB LEDs, allowing them to be individually illuminated in vibrant colors.
Interaction & Patterns
Game of Life
The cellular automaton was invented by Cambridge mathematician John Conway in 1970. His game consists of a grid of cells which, based on a few mathematical rules, can live, die or multiply.
Depending on the initial conditions, the cells form various patterns throughout the course of the game.
LONELINESS
Each cell with one or no neighbors dies.
BIRTH
Each empty cell with exactly three neighbors becomes populated.
STASIS
Each cell with two or three neighbors lifes on to the next generation.
OVERCROWDING
Each cell with four or more neighbors dies.
Photo : Martin Reiter
TEAM:
Martin Reiter | Project Leader | Johannes Kepler University | Institute of Polymer Production (IPPE)
Florian Nimmervoll | Project Leader | University of Art & Design | ID
Mario Zeppetzauer | Project Leader | University of Art & Design | Industrial Design (ID)
Michael Lackner | Researcher | Johannes Kepler University | Institute of Polymer Production (IPPE)
Sebastian Lämmermann | Researcher | Johannes Kepler University | Institute of Polymer Production (IPPE)
Theresa Rubenzucker | Student Assistent | Johannes Kepler University | Institute of Polymer Production (IPPE)
Verena Langthaler | Student | University of Art & Design | ID
Liam Wohlwend | Student | University of Art & Design | ID
Exhibited at ARS ELECTRONICA FESTIVAL 2024