Dynamic dual spectral response on different cations by regulating PET and LMCT process of a simple luminescent sensor

•An arylmaleimide derivative BOPM-AB with dimethylamino was easily synthesized.•BOPM-AB exhibits dual spectra response of absorption and emission on metal ions•Cu2+ or Fe3+ imposes a dynamic response of BOPM-AB with the interaction time.•Dynamic dual spectra response is closely related to two transfer process: PET and LMCT.•Sequential Half-adder and keypad lock can be constructed based on simple BOPM-AB.