2D Compass

Harnessing the Earth's magnetic field

A compass is sensitive to the Earth's magnetic field, i.e. its response gives its orientation with respect to North.

The 3 way connectors on this sensor lets one plug it on an « analof to midi » Interface such as our « 8 analog inputs to Midi » interface.
Our sensor has is one connector per axis.

Positioning in space

The sensor returns electric variations depending on earth's magnetic field, and thus reacts to its positionning, orientation and movement. It is often used alongside other movement sensors to add data to a moving device or performer.

Data returned by the sensor in real time

2 adjustable axes

Like many of our movement sensors, this sensor has 2 data axes which can be correlated for more reliable detection. Both axes are adjustable.

Electronics

Our sensor is made-up of a sensitive component and an electronic card that can :
- amplify the sensor signal to make it full stroke
- make the sensor compatible with 5 V interfaces

Technical data

The sensor is equipped with a Reset button for each axis, allowing the sensor to be repositioned in relation to the local magnetic field. Whenever possible, it's best to do this at the start of each show, for each change of venue and in the event of electromagnetic variations.

The compass is also sensitive to the local magnetic field, so it can be disturbed by magnets or magnetic field generators. One should always check its behavior when changing places in an installation or if the show changes venue, and adapt/recalibrate the program with respect to the new data.

Application examples

These sensors are often used embedded on dansers or performers. They can also be attached to moving objects within an installation or set, in order to locate them in space.

Noé Michaud and Mathilde Soliméo, AWAKENING (2016) :
- Presentation of the artwork