Visitor Center Wave Tank
Created interactive exhibit to raise awareness on renewables and educate public on how variable wave conditions effect energy generation. UI built with JavaScript and TypeScript, firmware built with C/C++.
Role
Software Engineer
Duration
2 months, ongoing
Year
2025
The Challenge
The Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC) and PacWave sought to create an interactive wave tank exhibit demonstrating how ocean waves generate renewable energy. The exhibit needed to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds within a busy public environment while providing real-time data from PacWave's offshore SOFAR buoys. The project required both reliable hardware control firmware and an intuitive touchscreen interface that was visually appealing, accessible, and easy to operate.
The Solution
In collaboration with HMSC's Innovation Lab, firmware was developed to operate the wave tank hardware, alongside a touchscreen user interface integrated with a live data pipeline from PacWave’s buoys. The interface emphasizes accessibility and engagement, featuring high-contrast, color-sensitive, and highly touchable elements. Eye-catching ocean footage greets users on the home screen to attract attention, while the design ensures that individuals with diverse abilities can comfortably explore how wave energy is produced.