The Challenge: High-Stakes Visual Immersion
For a high-profile permanent installation at Sentosa, Singapore, the client required a kinetic system that could achieve perfect synchronization across multiple moving parts.
The primary hurdles were:
- Latency: Wireless solutions were too interference-prone for a public space.
- Precision: Standard motors lacked the feedback needed for smooth, repeatable "visual immersion."
- Scalability: The system required multiple controllers to work in perfect unison over a dedicated local network.
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Our Engineering Approach
We moved beyond standard "maker" solutions to provide an industrial-grade electronics architecture:
Real-Time Reliability (RTOS & ESP32-S3)
We utilized FreeRTOS on the ESP32-S3 to handle multi-tasking. This ensured that motor control pulses remained jitter-free while the controller simultaneously handled background API calls and LED animations.
Hardwired Stability (Ethernet & Static Networking)
To guarantee the lowest possible latency, we bypassed Wi-Fi in favor of Ethernet connectivity. Each controller was configured with a custom static IP, gateway, and subnet, allowing the units to communicate with a central server via API calls with sub-millisecond response times.
Precision Motion (Closed-Loop Steppers)
We implemented closed-loop stepper motors, controlling RPM, speed, and direction with high granularity. Unlike standard steppers, the closed-loop system ensures no steps are lost, maintaining the installation's physical alignment even after thousands of cycles.
Custom PCB & Enclosure Design
The entire system was housed on a custom-designed PCB tailored for the ESP32-S3 ecosystem. We handled the electrical engineering from schematic to fabrication, ensuring the final units were fitted into robust, site-ready enclosures for the Sentosa environment.
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The Tech Stack (Shop the Components)
Interested in building a similar system? We use the same high-quality components we sell in our retail store:
- Microcontroller: ESP32-S3 Development Board – The heart of our RTOS implementation.
- Connectivity: Ethernet Module Mini W5500 – For stable, hardwired API communication.
- Motion Control: Closed-Loop Stepper Drivers – For precision RPM and direction control.
- Lighting: Addressable LEDs WS2815 – Integrated for immersive visual feedback.
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Full-Cycle Service: Ideation to Handover
Kuriosity didn't just provide the parts; we provided the solution. Our team was involved in:
- Ideation & Feasibility: Mapping out the networking and power requirements.
- Prototyping: Testing API latency and motor torque profiles.
- Final Build: Assembly of custom PCBs and enclosures.
- On-Site Handover: Final calibration and network configuration at Sentosa.
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Work With Us on Your Next Event Activation
Need a technical partner for a digital-to-physical interface? From custom PCB design to complex network programming, we turn creative visions into reliable hardware.