Bloom
Individual Research Project
Reflect the collective mood in a shared space; Developed 4 Iterations; From a software, to a desk gadget, to a lobby display;
Background:
Noticed Students in my department often face burnout and typically keep it to themselves.
Faculty Advisor: Andre van der Hoek (UCI)
3-D Modeling & Rendering
Wiring & Testing
Reflection
I tested it on 6 people and found that using a withering leaf as the output when users select feeling 'Down' might be perceived negatively. However, I want to give positive feedback as long as the user engages with the design, because my intention is to support them, and feeling down is okay.
Iteration 1
A new leaf sprouts out every 10s. Users press "Down" or "Good" buttons to indicate their mood.
Ideate:
Software Development:
I used HTML, CSS, and Javascript to write the program.
Iteration 2
Due to the limitations of 'Visualization,' I expanded my focus to encompass the entire range of human senses. My design evolved from software to a physical device.
Happy Button -> Mechanical flowers blossom
Sad Button-> Release scented mist
Ideate:
To make it less obvious for users to click the button, I used copper foil tape and a touch module, ensuring silent operation.
I also wrapped the copper foil in silicone to prevent accidental touches.
Input Design
Mechanism:
I placed the device on a table in a study room and conducted tests with eight people.
Testing:
The two buttons need to be differentiated.
There are too many wires; consider simplifying the input.
The inputs are not interesting enough to incentivize users to engage.
Reflection
Iteration 4
Appearance Re-design
In Iteration 2 and 3 , I focused on getting it to functionally work, although the appearance wasn't quite there yet.
In Iteration 4, I improved the appearance while maintaining the same mechanism as the previous iteration.
My next goal is to set it up in the lobby of our department building. Also, I want to make the way to use it more obvious. Sharing feelings shouldn't be hidden away. I want to encourage everyone to express themselves freely.
To encourage more interactive ways to take input. I designed 5 different approaches. I interviewed 2 professors and 7 students and asked them to vote for their favorite ways.
In my next iteration, I'm going to asking for a "high five" and "kick me" as new way to take input.
Iteration 3
I designed hand and foot-shaped buttons using silicone, asking users to give a high five or a kick as input. (In my initial prototype of iteration 3, I used 'perma foil' instead of making a silicone button)
Overview:
Input: Hand & Foot-shaped Silicone Buttons
Output: Mechanical Flowers + Mist Outlets
Reflection
Functionally Work. But not visually appealing;
