The Firefly Wind Light System revolves around a proprietary switch for sensing the wind. Picture an electrified wind chime; as the wind blows the metal chime into contact with the metal gong, it closes a circuit. Firefly's LED/switch pairs do the same thing, except on a much smaller scale. When the wind blows on their pendulum switch, they light up.
Conceptually, this project developed out of an idea to create a modular system that does not rely on a central decision making hub, such as a computer. Instead, its design takes in data through its many nodes, allowing for extremely accurate and responsive output based on their immediate environments.
Originally developed as a Master's Thesis at NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program, Firefly installations have been commissioned for several large-publc art installation around the United States. The initial piece is currently on display at the New York Hall of Science (pictured below).




The above image was part of a proposal to utilize Firefly modules to create a solar-powered, wind-sensitive skin for the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit. Coupling the Bridge’s beautiful engineering with a stunning, large scale wind installation would make it one of the most striking pieces of public art and architecture in the world.
Patent Pending