How much power does artificial intelligence actually require? In the special exhibition 'A Kind of Art: Artificial Intelligence Meets (Weser) Renaissance' at the Weser Renaissance Museum in Brake Castle, visitors can literally explore this question. Cycling4AI demonstrates that AI requires energy, and shows just how much. This demonstrator clearly shows the power behind AI and enables visitors to generate it themselves. It was developed by Pranish K C, a student assistant in Prof. Dr. Jürgen Jasperneite's Computer Networks research group.
Generate energy, experience AI
When you pedal, you not only get your legs moving, but also the computing power: the system connects a Concept2 BikeErg via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to a mini PC, which visualises the energy generated in real time. Performance data such as wattage, cadence, time, distance and energy are displayed on a dashboard.
With each revolution, more energy is collected, gradually unlocking various AI functions. These range from simple search queries to text generation using a language model. This enables users to experience first-hand just how energy-intensive modern AI systems are, and to appreciate the computing power behind artificial intelligence.
Awareness of the sustainability of technologies
‘Artificial intelligence is not magic – it needs energy. And here, visitors can generate it themselves,’ explains Pranish K C.
The demonstrator shows in a playful yet impressive way how heavily modern AI systems depend on computing power and encourages reflection on energy efficiency and sustainable technologies. In keeping with the spirit of ‘green AI,’ Cycling4AI demonstrates that technological innovation and resource awareness can go hand in hand.
Special exhibition until mid-December
With the special exhibition ‘A KInd of Art’, the Weser Renaissance Museum at Brake Castle builds a bridge between the past and the future. It can be seen at Schloss Brake in Lemgo until 1 February 2026. Visitors can discover various facets and applications of artificial intelligence there.
Further information is available at:https://museum-schloss-brake.de/portfolio_page/akindofart/