PhotoPot: A Tangible Learning Experience for Photosynthesis

What is PhotoPot?

PhotoPot is an tangible interactive learning tool that simulates key stages of photosynthesis—water absorption, light absorption, and carbon dioxide uptake—through physical interactions. Housed in a transparent acrylic pot, it integrates sensors, LEDs, and interactive elements that respond to a child’s actions, such as:

• Pouring water into the pot triggers a blue LED, simulating water uptake by roots.

• Shining light on the leaves activates an LDR sensor, illuminating the leaf in yellow to indicate light absorption.

• Blowing on a pinwheel triggers an IR sensor, lighting up a leaf in purple to represent carbon dioxide absorption.

• A green LED progression symbolizes glucose distribution, while a humidifier releases mist, representing oxygen release.

  
  

  
  

  

Design and Development of PhotoPot

The PhotoPot model is carefully crafted to replicate the biological process of photosynthesis using interactive elements. The device consists of three main sections, each playing a crucial role in the experience.

1. The Container

• The base is a transparent acrylic pot, sealed to be leak-proof.

• Water can be poured into this pot, triggering a soil moisture sensor to initiate the interactive sequence.

• Inside, the plant model includes layers of gravel, sand, and soil, illustrating the root structure.

2. The Interactive Elements

• Water Absorption: When water is poured in, blue LED lights illuminate from the roots to the leaves, simulating the transport of water.

• Light Absorption: A Light-Dependent Resistor (LDR) sensor on the leaves detects light (e.g., from a smartphone flashlight), triggering a yellow LED glow representing sunlight absorption.

• Carbon Dioxide Uptake: A pinwheel mechanism encourages users to blow air, activating an Infrared (IR) sensor, which triggers a purple LED light to signify CO₂ absorption.

3. The Feedback Mechanism

• Glucose Production: A green LED strip lights up, moving through the plant to represent energy distribution.

• Oxygen Release: A humidifier generates mist, symbolizing the release of oxygen (O₂) back into the environment.

Through these tactile and visual cues, children can actively engage with photosynthesis rather than passively memorizing it.

Functionality Testing

Challenges in Development

Creating the PhotoPot device came with several challenges:

1. Sensor Integration – Placing and calibrating delicate sensors within the plant model without affecting usability was a significant challenge.

2. Waterproofing – Ensuring a leak-proof design while maintaining an aesthetic look required precision in materials and assembly.

3. Depicting Gas Exchange – Finding a clear visual representation of carbon dioxide absorption and oxygen release was tricky. Earlier ideas included using an alcohol sensor with body spray, but the humidifier proved to be a better solution.

4. Curriculum Integration – Aligning the PhotoPot model with existing science curricula and ensuring educators could effectively use it in classrooms posed a scalability challenge.

Prototype Demonstration

Impact and Future Scope

PhotoPot represents a step forward in interactive science education, offering children a deeper appreciation for ecological concepts while fostering environmental stewardship. By making abstract processes tangible, it helps instill curiosity and scientific thinking from an early age.

With further refinements and educational collaborations, PhotoPot has the potential to revolutionize STEM learning, making complex biological processes more accessible, engaging, and enjoyable for young minds.

Authors: Namit Tirkey, Pawan Kumar

Institution: IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay

Mentors: Prof. Jayesh Pillai, Prof. Sudhir Bhatia, Prof. Venkatesh Rajamanickam.

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