Physical Interaction:
Input Data

Weekly Activity Template

Ankie Chen

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Project 1

Project 1 Module focuses on introducing physical computing and data sensing. Through weekly activities, I explored LED light connections using Arduino, tested digital prototype interactions with ProtoPie Connect and MakeyMakey, experimented with the basics of TouchDesigner and studied WGSN articles for trend research to develop a project concept and path.

Activity 1

Arduino and a single LED light.

Arduino connected to a breadboard with an LED light.

Arduino connected to a breadboard with an LED light and resistor.

Arduino connected to a breadboard with multiple LED lights and resistors.

Arduino connected to a breadboard with an LED light, resistor and a physical button.

Activity 2

Arduino connected to ProtoPie Connect to control a temperature prototype.

Inside ProtoPie Connect showing Arduino's temperature sensor in action.

ProtoPie Connect prototype of changing colour keys connected to MakeyMakey.

Activation of all colour keys through MakeyMakey.

GIF demonstrating interaction with the MakeyMakey and ProtoPie colour key prototype.

Activity 3

TouchDesigner template connected to Arduino.

Testing knob control with Arduino to manipulate the template.

GIF demonstrating expanding and shrinking of the circle using Arduino control.

Screen recording in TouchDesigner showing circle size manipulation.

TouchDesigner process near the end of class, attempting to replicate the original template.

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Research Activity

WGSN Consumer Trend Research

Information taken from:
Yong, L., & Aquino, C. (2024). Big Ideas 2027: Consumer Tech. WGSN.

With the rise of AI, humans will need to learn to coexist with it, using it ethically, wisely and knowing when to step away. <br><br>

Technology should support human connection, give users control, protect the environment and be adaptable to all cultures and communities.

This category is unique because it focuses on humans at its core rather than on technology itself, viewing AI and technology as tools that should enhance human connection and life, not replace them. <br><br>

<b>Example:</b> In Australia, Lifesize Plans provides architectural floor plans at a real-world scale through projection, allowing clients to walk through their designs before construction. <br><br>

This is a perfect example of using technology in a wise and ethical way that enhances human experience while allowing for control and adaptability.

<b>Statistic:</b> Percentage of global consumers who are wary about trusting AI systems - 61% <br><br>

I am more interested in this topic after learning this data. AI is growing rapidly, replacing jobs and many companies are starting to introduce AI features into their products. In the next few years, AI will be almost impossible to avoid and most people will have to use it in some form. This makes it even more important to remind people about human connection within technology and to learn when and how to use AI and technology in the best ways.

As more countries and cultures gain influence alongside dominant ones, it is important to embrace these changes and learn to cooperate. <br><br>

Businesses and designers can learn from this by creating products that prioritize inclusivity, empathy and empowerment for all.

This category is unique because it invites collaboration with underrepresented groups, empowering global communities and creating solutions that transform anger into positive change through both physical and digital technologies.<br><br>

<b>Example:</b> Tencent partnered with the China Braille Library to create Barrier-Free Theater, a free streaming service for visually impaired users that provides audio-described movies. <br><br>

This is a great example of how a major company like Tencent can collaborate with underrepresented groups to create inclusive solutions that benefit communities who are often overlooked in design.

<b>Statistic:</b> Percentage of people living in countries where freedom of expression is deemed to be in crisis -
53% <br><br>

Learning this data made me feel both concerned and extremely privileged. It is a topic I want to explore further because more than half of the world’s population cannot fully express themselves or share their ideas and beliefs due to restrictions from those in power. Underrepresented groups and communities deserve to have a voice and technology should be used as a tool to support and empower them when they cannot express it themselves.

WGSN Personas Research

Information taken from:
Yong, L. (2025). Personas 2027: Consumer Tech. WGSN.

This persona is concerned about their relationship with technology, seeking privacy and protection for their information due to uncertainty about how companies and governments are using it. They want trust and transparency before they are willing to use their products.

This persona greatly impacts older Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X and Boomers.

<b>Behaviours:</b>
Privacy Keepers are cautious and anxious when using technology.

<b>Buying:</b>
They are willing to engage with a product if it ensures privacy and allows them to control their information.

<br><b>Priorities:</b>
They prioritize individuality, safety and protection, with trust being a major factor in choosing brands.

<br><b>Actions:</b>
Products should be transparent, give users control over their interactions and provide a safe environment.

This persona is looking for ways to reduce stress, improve wellbeing and foster social connection in an increasingly fragmented world through play and positive emotions. They value creativity, community and empowerment.

This persona largely impacts Alphas, Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X and Boomers.

<b>Behaviours:</b>
Energisers are seeking small moments of joy and peace.

<br><b>Buying:</b>
They want products that are fun, engaging and bring out the child in them.

<br><b>Priorities:</b>
They prioritize social connection, positive emotions, creativity and openness in their lives.

<br><b>Actions:</b>
Products and experiences should be designed for all ages and support individuals in living happy, healthy lives. For example, social robots can promote wellbeing and reduce loneliness.

HMI Research

1. The lack of transparency from companies and governments about how personal data is collected, stored and used.
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2. The potential misuse of AI and the fear that it may replace human connection.

1. How might I help users build trust and maintain a positive relationship with
technology?
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2. How might I use AI to encourage human connection in an ethical way?

Yes. The HMI statements are based on real problems with mistrust and a lack of transparency around AI and technology. They track the desired outcome of building trust and creating ethical, human-centered technology. The statements are written positively and are broad enough to encourage solutions around transparency, user control and human connection.

1. A lack of fun, engaging and healthy community spaces for all ages.
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2. Underrepresented and minority communities lacking platforms and support that allow them to share their voices and be included.

1. How might I create inclusive environments for everyone, in both physical and digital spaces?
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2. How might I use technology to support underrepresented communities and make sure they feel seen and included?

Yes. The HMI statements address the existing issues of underrepresented communities lacking platforms and inclusive spaces. They track the desired outcome of creating inclusive and engaging environments. The statements are written positively and are broad enough to allow for multiple creative solutions across all types of design.

Project Path

The art path feels intimidating to me because it seems very broad and open-ended, which makes it hard for me to know where to start.
<br><br>
This could be a good opportunity to learn new software and concepts, like projection mapping through TouchDesigner, and create something unique to showcase in a portfolio.

The design path aligns more closely with what we do in our program, so I feel more confident that I already have some of the skills needed to complete a design-based project and create solutions for people. <br><br>
I have enjoyed creating physical prototypes with a functional purpose, so I think a design path would be more enjoyable for me, both in generating ideas and executing them.

If working individually, I know my own work habits the best and can work on my own schedule.
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It would be easier to pivot or develop new ideas without having to consult with my groupmates.
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I can choose to create a simpler, less complex project.

If working collaboratively, it is a good learning experience for future jobs where teamwork is required.
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If I am less skilled or knowledgeable in a certain area, my groupmate can take the lead and I can learn from them.
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This would be a chance to challenge myself and work on a more complex project.

<b>Design Path:</b> Designing with humans as the main focus, creating something that encourages a positive, healthy relationship with both technology and other people.

<b>Design Path:</b> Designing for underrepresented groups, such as people with disabilities, by creating something that makes everyday life easier.

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Project 1 Concept

For my Project 1 concept, I want to explore creating a portable, all-in-one alerting tool, such as a clip-on, waist belt, watch or remote, that enhances everyday life for the deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) community. This device could connect to Protopie, allowing users to control and customize features, such as adjusting colours for colourblind users or changing brightness levels to reduce eyestrain.

Possible LED flashing alarms could be triggered by sound at a certain decibel (fire alarm), controlled from a device (alarm clock) and adjusted with a knob control (general flashlight).

I would like the device to be both wearable and portable but also able to stand independently on a surface, such as a nightstand for alarm clock usage.

Top Photo from:
Olight. (n.d.). Olight Oclip Pro Clip on Flashlight with Floodlight Spotlight and Red Light. Olight. https://ca.olight.com/store/oclip-pro-clip-on-flashlight-floodlight-spotlight-red-light

Bottom Photo from:
Stannano. (2021). Led Wave! Project Hub. https://projecthub.arduino.cc/stannano/led-wave-27b109

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