ZoeLume

Zoelume Strobe Controller

Zoelume is a specialised utility that transforms your device into a stroboscopic light controller, designed to view record-deck zoetropes (phonotropes) with the naked eye. The app utilises your phone’s built-in LED torch to create a synchronised flashing light that instantly freezes motion and reveals clear, stable animation from your spinning zoetrope.

IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING: Zoelume uses an active stroboscopic light effect (flashing LED). Do NOT utilise this app if you, or anyone viewing your zoetrope, has a history of photosensitive epilepsy, light sensitivity, or suffers from seizure-related disorders.

Synchronised Pulse Settings

The app allows you to match the strobe frequency precisely to your zoetrope's specifications. As you adjust your configuration, the interface provides a real-time readout of the calculated strobe frequency in Hertz (Hz). Simply select the settings that match your setup:

Turntable Speed Support: Select between standard 33, 45, and 78 RPM settings.

Animation Poses (Positions): Choose from 10, 18, or 24 pose intervals to align with your zoetrope's structure.

Adjustable Pulse Duration

Fine-tune the sharpness and overall brightness of your animation. A shorter pulse duration creates a sharper image, while a longer pulse increases overall perceived brightness. Select from three predefined pulse options:

Pulse Timing: Choose a strobe duration of 1 millisecond (sharpest), 1.5 milliseconds, or 2 milliseconds (brightest).

How to Use

1. Setup: Place your zoetrope on the turntable and begin spinning at your selected RPM. Position your phone securely, ensuring the LED torch is aimed directly at the animation.

2. Configuration: On the Zoelume interface, select the correct RPM and the Pose count that matches your physical zoetrope. Choose your desired Pulse Duration. The active frequency (Hz) will be displayed.

3. Activation: Use the main activation button to begin the stroboscopic sequence.

Features

Pose Synchronisation: Dedicated support for 10, 18, and 24-pose zoetrope designs.

Multi-Speed Support: Calibrated strobe timing for 33, 45, and 78 RPM record player speeds.

Real-Time Frequency Display: Instant readout of the calculated strobe frequency (Hz) for your current settings.

Adjustable Sharpness: Three selectable strobe pulse durations (1ms, 1.5ms, and 2ms).

Physical Viewing: Optimised specifically for direct, eyes-on viewing (not through a camera feed).

Note: This is a hardware utility. You require a physical rotating animation (like a 3D-printed zoetrope) and a record player to utilise it. This app controls the LED torch hardware only.