Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Abstract / Thesis Statement
I kept on making excuses for not working on the paper... booey..
So here's how the statement goes:
"Millow is a technology integrated comfort object, that critiques and questions the products for substituting another human being, by projecting the mother's image on a pillow for adults who live far away from their hometown."
i know, it sound odd, but it's getting there.
So here's how the statement goes:
"Millow is a technology integrated comfort object, that critiques and questions the products for substituting another human being, by projecting the mother's image on a pillow for adults who live far away from their hometown."
i know, it sound odd, but it's getting there.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
timeline
Slide 1: Hello World
Slide 2: What is it – Thesis Statement
Slide 3: Itself – Demoing
Slide X: Cheech’s story
Slide 4: Turning adults into children
Slide X: comfort object x security blanket
Slide 5: similarities with the mother
Slide X: Substitution
Slide X: Design, a mommy circle and baby circle.
Slide 6: Technology: unexpected input to unexpected output
Slide X: Schematics (?)
Slide 7: The magic effect – oooo, maaagic
Slide X: Domains (leads into precedents)
Slide X: precedents: approach to how much technology can substitute
Slide 8: The history of the object: Timeline (methodology)
Slide 9: Emcy: What remained what omitted
Slide 10: Iteration 2 and 3
Slide 11: Moomi
Slide 12: approach to how much technology can substitute
& Sliding towards an approach rather than being a consumer product
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Texture Dilemma
Right now I'm in between two options:
One is to cover the thingy with a texture like this:
or just go solid blue: (which means that I have to find a matching color)
It all depends on how my stamping experience will go.
Oh the blanket has sort of changed into a pillow. Let's see. let's see. I'm very excited.
One is to cover the thingy with a texture like this:
or just go solid blue: (which means that I have to find a matching color)
It all depends on how my stamping experience will go.
Oh the blanket has sort of changed into a pillow. Let's see. let's see. I'm very excited.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Presentation Outline - still working on it
Slide 1: Hello World
Slide 2: What is it – Thesis Statement
Slide 3: Itself
Slide X: User Scenario
Slide X: Cheech’s story
Slide 4: Turning adults into children
Slide 5: Effects that are looked for : replacement of a mother
Slide 6: Technology: unexpected input to unexpected output
Slide 7: The magic effect.
Slide X: Domains (leads into precedents)
Slide X: precedents: approach to how much technology can substitute
Slide 8: The history of the object: Timeline (methodology)
Slide 9: Emcy: What remained what omitted
Slide 10: Iteration 2 and 3
Slide 11: Moomi
Slide 12: Depression: what am i?. approach to how much technology can substitute
Slide 13: Sliding towards an approach rather than being a consumer product
Slide 14: The midterm
Slide 15: Going back
Slide 16: Current version
Slide 2: What is it – Thesis Statement
Slide 3: Itself
Slide X: User Scenario
Slide X: Cheech’s story
Slide 4: Turning adults into children
Slide 5: Effects that are looked for : replacement of a mother
Slide 6: Technology: unexpected input to unexpected output
Slide 7: The magic effect.
Slide X: Domains (leads into precedents)
Slide X: precedents: approach to how much technology can substitute
Slide 8: The history of the object: Timeline (methodology)
Slide 9: Emcy: What remained what omitted
Slide 10: Iteration 2 and 3
Slide 11: Moomi
Slide 12: Depression: what am i?. approach to how much technology can substitute
Slide 13: Sliding towards an approach rather than being a consumer product
Slide 14: The midterm
Slide 15: Going back
Slide 16: Current version
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Updates
Wow, It's been a while.
Here are a few updates:
++The latest design changed into a simpler shape, yet it serves to the concepts a lot better.
++ about the ink and thread: I tried to sew up in longer threads as realized that it was losing heat along the way and wasn't creating the effect I was looking for.
Also the stitching doesn't have to be this tight, which means I will use less thread ( and therefore less power).
== Testing on a lot of fabric, different curing times and positioning of the thread and the ink, I have FINALLY come to a decision. The blanket will be a little quilted, it will carry some normal stitching, but when the input comes through the conductive thread will heat the fabric from underneath and the image will magically appear.
++ I have started building the final prototype: Here's the top part which contains the microphone.
!!++ I have showed the small little prototype to people who are not related with conductive thread and thermochromic inks. They loved the idea of magical apperance. But since that iteration wasn't in a blanket form but a patch of cloth, they couldn't experience the whole project.
Important Setbacks:
It's quite tricky with working such material because many times they decide not to work. Sometime when they sit without working a day, they go back to normal. I guess I have to clean my code for it, because it's such a mess.
The classic problem of power: The batteries are running out very easy. since I can only use 9V, they don't feel comfortable in a wearable or a blanket. Actually I haven't tried giving lower voltage.. Let's see. Worth giving a try.
The name is an issue that I have to solve.
Ahh.. I only wish the final presentation was postponed.. but of course it won't happen.. sigh..
Here are a few updates:
++The latest design changed into a simpler shape, yet it serves to the concepts a lot better.
++ about the ink and thread: I tried to sew up in longer threads as realized that it was losing heat along the way and wasn't creating the effect I was looking for.
Also the stitching doesn't have to be this tight, which means I will use less thread ( and therefore less power).
== Testing on a lot of fabric, different curing times and positioning of the thread and the ink, I have FINALLY come to a decision. The blanket will be a little quilted, it will carry some normal stitching, but when the input comes through the conductive thread will heat the fabric from underneath and the image will magically appear.
++ I have started building the final prototype: Here's the top part which contains the microphone.
!!++ I have showed the small little prototype to people who are not related with conductive thread and thermochromic inks. They loved the idea of magical apperance. But since that iteration wasn't in a blanket form but a patch of cloth, they couldn't experience the whole project.
Important Setbacks:
It's quite tricky with working such material because many times they decide not to work. Sometime when they sit without working a day, they go back to normal. I guess I have to clean my code for it, because it's such a mess.
The classic problem of power: The batteries are running out very easy. since I can only use 9V, they don't feel comfortable in a wearable or a blanket. Actually I haven't tried giving lower voltage.. Let's see. Worth giving a try.
The name is an issue that I have to solve.
Ahh.. I only wish the final presentation was postponed.. but of course it won't happen.. sigh..
Monday, April 7, 2008
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
the sound circuit
So the microphone circuit is FINALLY working. I started sketching a few circuits before but never got this far in it.
Right now the circuit can take audio at a certain level and initiate a different circuit. So when someone cries into the circuit, a different circuit can start.
For the termochromic ink reaction, I'm still expecting the conductive thread, which is insisting on not being delivered. Till then I'll try to get something with wires and see how much power it needs to achieve a good color change.
If everything works out, I'll add the breathing as well.. but let's see..
Friday, March 28, 2008
Bringing it Together and Being Realistic
Things are getting tough and I have to put something out there. The problem is not creating something, it's the way to present it.
So from now on, I am building something, but my main focus is the presentation/the art of decribing a project.
Schedule:
March 29-30: Technology sketch, research
March 31: Finalizing sketching
April 1-3: Integrating technology
April 4: Rough-ish prototype for user testing
April 5-6: User testing / Feedback
April 7-10: Re-iterating
April 11-13: Final Usertesting and final "iteration"
April 14-18: Presentation
Thursday, March 27, 2008
why are you so great "Design and the Elastic Mind"?
I've been to see most of these works since the first time I've heard of them. The overall idea of Design Noir felt both appealing and repelling, but when contexted as art it became closer and closer to me. Taking an everyday/common norm/idea/activity/feeling and twisting/exaggerating it with simple technologies makes most people to realize how those norms/ideas/activities/feelings are important in an everyday context.
Here's something to get some people jealous: I was lucky enough to get into the openning of the exhibition. Dunne & Raby and Noam Toran were my primary goal. Noam Toran's Accessories for the Lonely Men work was the first art project that made me question my previous concept: Can we substitute a human or a feeling with technological design (if that's a word)?
He actually led me to not only doubt my previous concept, he also challenged me to be stronger in my words. Rather than looking for "temporary relief", now I'm "substituting" the feeling.
Another project that I was eager to see was Body Modification for Love Project. It sort of relates to the idea of having someone to record sound clips of the loved ones and listening to them later hugging the pillow, it's just greater and VERY tactile (which, everybody knows, I like).
"By embedding out emotional background into our own bodies, we could create "growing memories" to keep our recollections alive."
Elio Cacavale is an artist that I've never heard of before. I've came across with his works in a fast pace research but I really wasn't aware of who he was. His hypothetical works simply question the emerging technology and the ways these effect our lives. Also he is working on a "plush sci-fi" feeling, which is something that I'm very interested in.
My Bio is a very provoking project dealing with biotechnologies and hybrids of animals. Especially the My BioPig is something very interesting and an on-going discussion that has been going on about organ transplants from pigs to human. It sound quite disgusting as a technology, but wouldn't it cure a lot of people?
The thing about this project that I can't really get the feeling of whether Caccavale is agreeing with these or not? Maybe it's not about agreeing, but simply putting it out there.
What does the quality of plush adds to the project? A cozy accepting approach or a sarcastic idea?
The best part of this exhibition was that it challanged me to think about projects more open and design-wise. I've never though these simple ideas would stand out very effective. To see where I'm standing, I constantly question the similarities and differences of my concepts and the ones that are out there in the exhibition. Obviously, they are using technology and design in such a way that the project stands for itself: they are obviously questioning some concepts and they don't really need words. When words are added, it gains more and more meaning, even push the visitors to think more.
Ah, I love this exhibition.
Oh, beyond all the great things, I was "honored" to see one of my least favorite designers.. Maybe the only one..
Last, but not least, the geek graffiti instructor, Evan's project was in the opening and it had huge success..
Here's something to get some people jealous: I was lucky enough to get into the openning of the exhibition. Dunne & Raby and Noam Toran were my primary goal. Noam Toran's Accessories for the Lonely Men work was the first art project that made me question my previous concept: Can we substitute a human or a feeling with technological design (if that's a word)?
He actually led me to not only doubt my previous concept, he also challenged me to be stronger in my words. Rather than looking for "temporary relief", now I'm "substituting" the feeling.
Another project that I was eager to see was Body Modification for Love Project. It sort of relates to the idea of having someone to record sound clips of the loved ones and listening to them later hugging the pillow, it's just greater and VERY tactile (which, everybody knows, I like).
"By embedding out emotional background into our own bodies, we could create "growing memories" to keep our recollections alive."
Elio Cacavale is an artist that I've never heard of before. I've came across with his works in a fast pace research but I really wasn't aware of who he was. His hypothetical works simply question the emerging technology and the ways these effect our lives. Also he is working on a "plush sci-fi" feeling, which is something that I'm very interested in.
My Bio is a very provoking project dealing with biotechnologies and hybrids of animals. Especially the My BioPig is something very interesting and an on-going discussion that has been going on about organ transplants from pigs to human. It sound quite disgusting as a technology, but wouldn't it cure a lot of people?
The thing about this project that I can't really get the feeling of whether Caccavale is agreeing with these or not? Maybe it's not about agreeing, but simply putting it out there.
What does the quality of plush adds to the project? A cozy accepting approach or a sarcastic idea?
The best part of this exhibition was that it challanged me to think about projects more open and design-wise. I've never though these simple ideas would stand out very effective. To see where I'm standing, I constantly question the similarities and differences of my concepts and the ones that are out there in the exhibition. Obviously, they are using technology and design in such a way that the project stands for itself: they are obviously questioning some concepts and they don't really need words. When words are added, it gains more and more meaning, even push the visitors to think more.
Ah, I love this exhibition.
Oh, beyond all the great things, I was "honored" to see one of my least favorite designers.. Maybe the only one..
Last, but not least, the geek graffiti instructor, Evan's project was in the opening and it had huge success..
breathing v0.0000002
After the sketching I started working on the breathing effect. Last year I've made a small platypus, which breathed in a few times and sneezed. Albert the platypus was programmed in PIC and worked pretty well.
For the last few days I've been trying to translate the code into arduino and try to get a good breathing effect. For now, it looks like it's working OK, but the best testing will be after putting the padding.
From last years' experience, I'm aware that you don't need to have the motor to move that much.
Also it looks a little fast, gotta slow that down.
For the last few days I've been trying to translate the code into arduino and try to get a good breathing effect. For now, it looks like it's working OK, but the best testing will be after putting the padding.
From last years' experience, I'm aware that you don't need to have the motor to move that much.
Also it looks a little fast, gotta slow that down.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Sketching to fight Thesis Depression
Since tasting and smelling work together, why not integrate them in the same parts?
Looking at mom's image, after hugging the blanket
Crying out and hearing the favorite lullaby
The imitation of the breathing of a mother
Friday, March 14, 2008
two approaches
So what am I looking for? What is this project?
It's looking for a temporary relief / substitution for loneliness. So the core is about loneliness.
There are two approaches to the concept.
The Practical Way:
Here the thesis statement changes into: Moomy is a security blanket for children who are hospitalized or housebound with health condition and bring temporary comfort in difficult times.
The current prototype is providing comfort during taking the temperature of a child. Also the idea of comforting children in their painful moments is suggested.
What is tested when a child is admitted to the hospital? What are the procedure?
Peeing in a cup, taking temperature, heartrate,
The Crazy Artsy Way:
Moomy is a set of blankets that are aiming to substitute the feeling of loneliness with technological tools. It relates to the five senses because they are the tools of communication!
Hearing: A socket for ipod/cell phones // A pocket where the recorded sounds can be integrated // soothing music/lullaby
Smelling: Small pockets, when opened they spray a nice smell of strawberry, hamburger or a mother
Looking: Integrated screen that the user can plug in their tv's
Tasting: ugh..
Touching: A play with Thermochromic ink
Nope the five senses won't work.. What can substitute a human.. The ways of communication? A blanket that substitutes loneliness? What kind of technology do people use to substitute loneliness? When does it hit?
A presence of another:
- Feeling someone: Someone carresing the back, hitting beer bottles to cheer.
- Speaking to someone: Speaking to ones self, pretending to be answered. Imaginary Friends
- Sleeping with someone: Hug blanket, put leg over a pillow
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loneliness
Blanket
Children x Adults
hospital
what do we do when we're lonely? What do we miss tha most?
Adults/chldren who miss mommy.
I've been trying to set my keywords and choose between two paths.. so here's where I've set on... hopefully i won't change it anymore.
Being away from the loved one, may create some complications. Sometimes they take their clothing to have the smell near them, or carry a photo to remember the moments they had. Or set the ringtone as their voice. Certain foods , especially cookies, are constantly compared to the missed ones dishes.
Five senses:
Look: mommy's face x when hugged.
feel: mommy's chest (breating up and down) x when senses a head
smell: mommy deo x when squeeze
taste: mommy cookie x when bit on a certain part
hear: mommy voice x when cry into something
Here are a couple of points that I'm stuck at:
- The senses are triggered from different senses. Would that bring a conceptual dilemma? The taste is triggered by mouth, hearing is triggered by voice. Those have a connection between, but does it make sense when the "look" is triggered by touch? They should all have the same strategy. no?
-ugh.. I can't remember the second one.
It's looking for a temporary relief / substitution for loneliness. So the core is about loneliness.
There are two approaches to the concept.
The Practical Way:
Here the thesis statement changes into: Moomy is a security blanket for children who are hospitalized or housebound with health condition and bring temporary comfort in difficult times.
The current prototype is providing comfort during taking the temperature of a child. Also the idea of comforting children in their painful moments is suggested.
What is tested when a child is admitted to the hospital? What are the procedure?
Peeing in a cup, taking temperature, heartrate,
The Crazy Artsy Way:
Moomy is a set of blankets that are aiming to substitute the feeling of loneliness with technological tools. It relates to the five senses because they are the tools of communication!
Hearing: A socket for ipod/cell phones // A pocket where the recorded sounds can be integrated // soothing music/lullaby
Smelling: Small pockets, when opened they spray a nice smell of strawberry, hamburger or a mother
Looking: Integrated screen that the user can plug in their tv's
Tasting: ugh..
Touching: A play with Thermochromic ink
Nope the five senses won't work.. What can substitute a human.. The ways of communication? A blanket that substitutes loneliness? What kind of technology do people use to substitute loneliness? When does it hit?
A presence of another:
- Feeling someone: Someone carresing the back, hitting beer bottles to cheer.
- Speaking to someone: Speaking to ones self, pretending to be answered. Imaginary Friends
- Sleeping with someone: Hug blanket, put leg over a pillow
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loneliness
Blanket
Children x Adults
hospital
what do we do when we're lonely? What do we miss tha most?
Adults/chldren who miss mommy.
I've been trying to set my keywords and choose between two paths.. so here's where I've set on... hopefully i won't change it anymore.
Being away from the loved one, may create some complications. Sometimes they take their clothing to have the smell near them, or carry a photo to remember the moments they had. Or set the ringtone as their voice. Certain foods , especially cookies, are constantly compared to the missed ones dishes.
Five senses:
Look: mommy's face x when hugged.
feel: mommy's chest (breating up and down) x when senses a head
smell: mommy deo x when squeeze
taste: mommy cookie x when bit on a certain part
hear: mommy voice x when cry into something
Here are a couple of points that I'm stuck at:
- The senses are triggered from different senses. Would that bring a conceptual dilemma? The taste is triggered by mouth, hearing is triggered by voice. Those have a connection between, but does it make sense when the "look" is triggered by touch? They should all have the same strategy. no?
-ugh.. I can't remember the second one.
Post-presentation depression
Since I couldn't rehearse my presentation well enough, there was a lot of ambiguities flying around. Here's the feedback I've got:
-The project is for a noble cause.
-Meaningful, and important
-Frame your investigation
-The Target Audience is non-verbal and physically challanged
-You're apologizing for what's missing/apologelistic presentation
-Establish why this project is important
-Temperature.. is it as important as pain?
-more background, research and medical information
-Not doing well by changing what you had in the first semester
-Closeness of a patient. What do kids associate with? Smell? Mother's Smell?Embrace?
-Don't go crazy with the functions
-radiowaves is an absolute no no for projects that work with children because it effects their brain.
-Is this an art piece like dunne and raby is looking into design noir? or is it a practical object that you are willing to use in the medical field?
-disconnected presentation
-build your case
Long story short, I couldn't present my project and I'm angry! ARGH!
-The project is for a noble cause.
-Meaningful, and important
-Frame your investigation
-The Target Audience is non-verbal and physically challanged
-You're apologizing for what's missing/apologelistic presentation
-Establish why this project is important
-Temperature.. is it as important as pain?
-more background, research and medical information
-Not doing well by changing what you had in the first semester
-Closeness of a patient. What do kids associate with? Smell? Mother's Smell?Embrace?
-Don't go crazy with the functions
-radiowaves is an absolute no no for projects that work with children because it effects their brain.
-Is this an art piece like dunne and raby is looking into design noir? or is it a practical object that you are willing to use in the medical field?
-disconnected presentation
-build your case
Long story short, I couldn't present my project and I'm angry! ARGH!
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Sometimes things just work out
So after getting depressed for not being able to demonstrate the inks, luckily my presentation was postponed to Friday - hooorrraaayyy!!!
Still, there's a lot to do and so little time..
Still, there's a lot to do and so little time..
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Yay! (?)
So here's some nice news:
Finally I'm getting my hand on the the ink. Matsui is sending me some samples, which are probably ridiculously small. It will be shipped either today or tomorrow and will be here in 3 days. Here's the issue: It seems like I won't have any fabric changing color. Instead just to show the before and after would be enough for the midterm?.. hmm..
Another point, none of the doctors got back to me. It's either because my proposal wasn't that strong enough (which seems to be very possible) or they weren't interested at all. Joel Murphy suggested that doctors wouldn't have time for something like that, but instead he suggested me to contact the parents! Seems like a good idea.
Now I'm looking for foundations and blogs that are about a certain disease.
I hope I can get my hands on user testing soon!
Finally I'm getting my hand on the the ink. Matsui is sending me some samples, which are probably ridiculously small. It will be shipped either today or tomorrow and will be here in 3 days. Here's the issue: It seems like I won't have any fabric changing color. Instead just to show the before and after would be enough for the midterm?.. hmm..
Another point, none of the doctors got back to me. It's either because my proposal wasn't that strong enough (which seems to be very possible) or they weren't interested at all. Joel Murphy suggested that doctors wouldn't have time for something like that, but instead he suggested me to contact the parents! Seems like a good idea.
Now I'm looking for foundations and blogs that are about a certain disease.
I hope I can get my hands on user testing soon!
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Questioning the concept... again
Hi I'm Cicek and I'm a quitter.
It seems like whenever the concept is questioned I step away from the project. This is not only related to thesis, but every other thing I do...
but guess what, this time it'll be different.
The question was : "What is the relationship between the blanket and the patient? Is it person to person or person to machine?"
in a way: "How does it heal the child?"
The question derived after the idea of having a story on the blanket..
So now I'm focusing on ways to express the concept (which seems to be my biggest challange/problem) and maybe work on some design issues.
I know the concept is good, but I can't put it in words.
It's time to stand in front of the mirror and talk to myself like a crazy person
It seems like whenever the concept is questioned I step away from the project. This is not only related to thesis, but every other thing I do...
but guess what, this time it'll be different.
The question was : "What is the relationship between the blanket and the patient? Is it person to person or person to machine?"
in a way: "How does it heal the child?"
The question derived after the idea of having a story on the blanket..
So now I'm focusing on ways to express the concept (which seems to be my biggest challange/problem) and maybe work on some design issues.
I know the concept is good, but I can't put it in words.
It's time to stand in front of the mirror and talk to myself like a crazy person
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Heavy work load
I try to start from somewhere but seem to hit more challanges everyday and I'm getting pretty worried.
Problem 1: Umm... I don't know how to do screenprinting..
Solution: Well, learn how to! I started messing around with my extra tshirts and paint them. Also Becky is giving me a hand and sneaking me in to her class. *yay*
It feels quite addictive, I'm scared I won't have any solid color tshirt anymore.
Problem2: Where is the ink man? How can I get my hands on it?
Solution: Why not order? The thermochromic inks can be ordered from Japan and takes a nice one month to come here. This is quite a disaster, I will be asking around to find some samples so I can show the effect in the midterm
Problem 3: You absolutely forgot the pattern!
Solution: um.. yeah I did. So I will find some patterns and designs to print on the blanket. The pattern I'm thinking is bubbles and happy happy shapes. Another one is to have a illustration of a story, like Robin Hood or Alice in Wonderland.
Julia Schwadron
Jimmy Lee
Not only problems, I have some thoughs as well.
Thought 1:Since I have a system working with vibrating motors, maybe I should integrate them in a blanket and see how that works out.
Though 2: I have a simple audio as well. Maybe put that out as a sample too?
ugh.. dizzy.. a lot of work..
Problem 1: Umm... I don't know how to do screenprinting..
Solution: Well, learn how to! I started messing around with my extra tshirts and paint them. Also Becky is giving me a hand and sneaking me in to her class. *yay*
It feels quite addictive, I'm scared I won't have any solid color tshirt anymore.
Problem2: Where is the ink man? How can I get my hands on it?
Solution: Why not order? The thermochromic inks can be ordered from Japan and takes a nice one month to come here. This is quite a disaster, I will be asking around to find some samples so I can show the effect in the midterm
Problem 3: You absolutely forgot the pattern!
Solution: um.. yeah I did. So I will find some patterns and designs to print on the blanket. The pattern I'm thinking is bubbles and happy happy shapes. Another one is to have a illustration of a story, like Robin Hood or Alice in Wonderland.
Julia Schwadron
Jimmy Lee
Not only problems, I have some thoughs as well.
Thought 1:Since I have a system working with vibrating motors, maybe I should integrate them in a blanket and see how that works out.
Though 2: I have a simple audio as well. Maybe put that out as a sample too?
ugh.. dizzy.. a lot of work..
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Domains and Precedents
Domains:
- Psychology (Loneliness, Child Patients)
- Communication (Child Patients)
- Product Design (Toy Design, Textile Design)
- Physical Computing (Wearable Technology)
Precedents:
-Andy the Robot, The Robotics & Multibody Research Group (Brussels University)
The Robotics & Multibody Research Group (Brussels University)is working on Anty, an intelligent soft robot that will entertain long-term hospitalized children. When developed the robot will walk, talk and show feelings. According to the creators, Anty will be able to develop different personalities, so kids won't get bored with him. It's nice to see what other creators are doing and how they are approaching to the same problem.
- My Beating Heart, Yury Gitman
A nicely textured pillow with vibrating motors in it, which when hugged, gives a sensation of hugging another person. The idea is strong and the design of it is actually very simple. (which is one of the base principles of my way of thinking/doing). Till the time I've held one I never thought it would be this comforting! The idea of using simple techniques like vibrating motors have a great strength and I would like to carry this idea to my project
- HugShirt, CuteCircuit
The Hug Shirt is a wearable Bluetooth accessory for your mobile phone. The Hug Shirt allows to exchange the physical sensation of being hugged over distance through telecommunication networks. When the user sends a text message to the shirt, the user who is wearing it can feel a hug with the motors sewed inside of it.
- Zaky, M. Terese Verklan - University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
These two hands are created to give support to the baby when their parents are away. The soft tactile feedback is something that I'm primarily interested in this aspect. Even though it is a good way of thinking, the hands are too literal and seem to be a little repelling.
- Tamagochi
A sensational toy that is programmed to be a small pet that has to be fed, slept and taken its' potty taken care of. Both the Psychology and The Product Design cross their roads here. It can be used as a companion for loneliness because it's possible to play games with it. Also it has a simple task to do: hold the keys together (a keychain). The way the toy communicates it's messages is through sound and images, which is not a style that I'm not really interested in.
- Quiet House, Orhan Pamuk
This Turkish author has inspired me a lot in the ways he builds characters and daily events around them. Also the characters are very lonely in work, love and life. The style of writing is very interesting as well: even though the narration is going on, sometimes the writing switches to the first person. The way the characters handle (or can't handle) loneliness falls in to the Psychology Domain.
-Orisinal
Orisinal is a website with different and simple games. For example the player is squirrel trying to collect as much nuts as it can. The design is very cute, and the rules and the characters are very original and simple. Besides all of the simplicity, the color palette is something that I'm very interested in this project: It's bright enough to get the player's attention but still subtle enough to not to tire the eyes.
- MusiCure Pillow,
The MusiCure pillow, a pillow with built in speakers that plays soothing instrumental music and nature sounds, is now being used experimentally with soldiers in the Danish military. The pillow is being used to help soldiers relax and get needed sleep.
-Needies, Amos Bloomberg, Daniel Perlin, Brett Schultz – ITP/NYU
Needies are three friends who need attention from their users. They have their own characters of showing their "neediness". At some point Moomi tried to serve to this aim but yet it seemed like adult companionship is not as sensitive and important than a child support.
- Superpatata, Hector Serrano
Superpatata is a stress-reliever bed warmer pillow. When squeezed (the input is thought to be stress), Superpatata starts lighting. It can also be used a s bed warmer. The idea behind the design seems to be adjustable for many uses, which is something I'm very interested in.
- Think Geek Toys, www.thinkgeek.com
This website is based on toys that are not only created by their crew but also by their customers! They are geek, yet cute and most importantly they are very simple as well.
- Web Articles:
-Video Games for Healing
-Child Hospitalization may heal body but hurt mind
- Psychology (Loneliness, Child Patients)
- Communication (Child Patients)
- Product Design (Toy Design, Textile Design)
- Physical Computing (Wearable Technology)
Precedents:
-Andy the Robot, The Robotics & Multibody Research Group (Brussels University)
The Robotics & Multibody Research Group (Brussels University)is working on Anty, an intelligent soft robot that will entertain long-term hospitalized children. When developed the robot will walk, talk and show feelings. According to the creators, Anty will be able to develop different personalities, so kids won't get bored with him. It's nice to see what other creators are doing and how they are approaching to the same problem.- My Beating Heart, Yury Gitman
A nicely textured pillow with vibrating motors in it, which when hugged, gives a sensation of hugging another person. The idea is strong and the design of it is actually very simple. (which is one of the base principles of my way of thinking/doing). Till the time I've held one I never thought it would be this comforting! The idea of using simple techniques like vibrating motors have a great strength and I would like to carry this idea to my project- HugShirt, CuteCircuit
The Hug Shirt is a wearable Bluetooth accessory for your mobile phone. The Hug Shirt allows to exchange the physical sensation of being hugged over distance through telecommunication networks. When the user sends a text message to the shirt, the user who is wearing it can feel a hug with the motors sewed inside of it.
- Zaky, M. Terese Verklan - University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
These two hands are created to give support to the baby when their parents are away. The soft tactile feedback is something that I'm primarily interested in this aspect. Even though it is a good way of thinking, the hands are too literal and seem to be a little repelling.- Tamagochi
A sensational toy that is programmed to be a small pet that has to be fed, slept and taken its' potty taken care of. Both the Psychology and The Product Design cross their roads here. It can be used as a companion for loneliness because it's possible to play games with it. Also it has a simple task to do: hold the keys together (a keychain). The way the toy communicates it's messages is through sound and images, which is not a style that I'm not really interested in.- Quiet House, Orhan Pamuk
This Turkish author has inspired me a lot in the ways he builds characters and daily events around them. Also the characters are very lonely in work, love and life. The style of writing is very interesting as well: even though the narration is going on, sometimes the writing switches to the first person. The way the characters handle (or can't handle) loneliness falls in to the Psychology Domain.-Orisinal
Orisinal is a website with different and simple games. For example the player is squirrel trying to collect as much nuts as it can. The design is very cute, and the rules and the characters are very original and simple. Besides all of the simplicity, the color palette is something that I'm very interested in this project: It's bright enough to get the player's attention but still subtle enough to not to tire the eyes.
- MusiCure Pillow,
The MusiCure pillow, a pillow with built in speakers that plays soothing instrumental music and nature sounds, is now being used experimentally with soldiers in the Danish military. The pillow is being used to help soldiers relax and get needed sleep.
-Needies, Amos Bloomberg, Daniel Perlin, Brett Schultz – ITP/NYU
Needies are three friends who need attention from their users. They have their own characters of showing their "neediness". At some point Moomi tried to serve to this aim but yet it seemed like adult companionship is not as sensitive and important than a child support.
- Superpatata, Hector Serrano
Superpatata is a stress-reliever bed warmer pillow. When squeezed (the input is thought to be stress), Superpatata starts lighting. It can also be used a s bed warmer. The idea behind the design seems to be adjustable for many uses, which is something I'm very interested in.- Think Geek Toys, www.thinkgeek.com
This website is based on toys that are not only created by their crew but also by their customers! They are geek, yet cute and most importantly they are very simple as well.- Web Articles:
-Video Games for Healing
-Child Hospitalization may heal body but hurt mind
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Peer Evaluations
After a long week, I ended up presenting the one before the last person on Friday. To be honest I wasn't really expecting any feedback.
Like always, I was wrong! Everybody commented and suggesting interesting points:
My fear of thermochromic inks was broken by the help offered. I will get my hands dirty on the technique by thursday. If I get the inks by this weekend I'd like to paint all of my tshirts. *Thanks Becky and Mike*
Also Eric suggested some interesting point of views to start the interaction of the electronics - for now I'm keeping them for myself!
Also it is time to get my hands dirty on the design of the characters on the blanket. get that pencil and start drawing girl!
Like always, I was wrong! Everybody commented and suggesting interesting points:
My fear of thermochromic inks was broken by the help offered. I will get my hands dirty on the technique by thursday. If I get the inks by this weekend I'd like to paint all of my tshirts. *Thanks Becky and Mike*
Also Eric suggested some interesting point of views to start the interaction of the electronics - for now I'm keeping them for myself!
Also it is time to get my hands dirty on the design of the characters on the blanket. get that pencil and start drawing girl!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Parts of the project
For a while I've been looking in some different ways to approach to my blanket. the washability and the hygene is my important subjects: for that one of my main design concepts is coming in: modularity. The battery or different characteristics of the blanket can be separated easily from the blanket.
First of all I'm looking for ways to integrate what I have into a blanket.
Right now I have a module that can record and playback one sound clip. I sew it in a pouch with snaps on it. Since the blanket has snaps on it as well, it's quite attachable.
With this I realized that using a fleece blanket is not going to work in embedding electronics, so I will build up a comforter-like blanket for this.
Another idea for embedding is , to have two layers of fleece and saw them with patterns so what they will be hidden between two layers and won't disturb the user.
Technologies that will be integrated:
1.) Audio: the old project. To listen to the messages of the loved ones. - This is almost done.
2.) Thermochromic Ink: This tool has a very magical effect on children (even grown ups). So I would like to use this for two reasons:
a.) A feedback for hugging the shirt: Since the blanket changes color with heat it will give a nice feedback for choke or hugging the shirt.
b.) Temperature update: To keep an eye on the temperature of the child.
3.) A hoodie: Using the blanket is a hoodie is pretty common so in this sense I'm looking into:
a.) Have a small patch of thermochromic ink on the corner of the blanket so maybe when it's worn as a hoodie, it will get the overall temperature of the child.. maybe
b.) Vibrating motors: If some vibrating motors along the back of the blanket, it will give a sense of patting/hugging/carressing.
++ The main thing I would like to investigate a way of comfort during injections or IVs.
Soon I will be meeting some psychiatrics to get better feedback on the project.
First of all I'm looking for ways to integrate what I have into a blanket.
Right now I have a module that can record and playback one sound clip. I sew it in a pouch with snaps on it. Since the blanket has snaps on it as well, it's quite attachable.
With this I realized that using a fleece blanket is not going to work in embedding electronics, so I will build up a comforter-like blanket for this.
Another idea for embedding is , to have two layers of fleece and saw them with patterns so what they will be hidden between two layers and won't disturb the user.
Technologies that will be integrated:
1.) Audio: the old project. To listen to the messages of the loved ones. - This is almost done.
2.) Thermochromic Ink: This tool has a very magical effect on children (even grown ups). So I would like to use this for two reasons:
a.) A feedback for hugging the shirt: Since the blanket changes color with heat it will give a nice feedback for choke or hugging the shirt.
b.) Temperature update: To keep an eye on the temperature of the child.
3.) A hoodie: Using the blanket is a hoodie is pretty common so in this sense I'm looking into:
a.) Have a small patch of thermochromic ink on the corner of the blanket so maybe when it's worn as a hoodie, it will get the overall temperature of the child.. maybe
b.) Vibrating motors: If some vibrating motors along the back of the blanket, it will give a sense of patting/hugging/carressing.
++ The main thing I would like to investigate a way of comfort during injections or IVs.
Soon I will be meeting some psychiatrics to get better feedback on the project.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Target Audience
Even though I was happy with working with my target audience, but after situating the project in different scenarios, I’ve realized that it wasn’t the best choice. As the project changed, the target audience changed as well.
The project is a security blanket for kids who are hospitalized to undergo tough surgeries.
With the research I've made online and some readings about transitional objects (teddy bears or security blankets) by David Winnicott, my target audience is shaping in a certain age range.
The security blanket is used intensely by 2 or 3 year olds and by the age of 5 the connection with the blanket is slowing down. At the beginning I though this might be an obstacle for me. Now that I'm focusing in a special situation, I guess it won't be that tough. Since the situation they are in is very sensitive, I might pull the target audience I a little up, to ages of 5-8. Soon I will speak to a few doctors concentrating in this area.
Project Linus
This project is focusing in giving out blankets for small children who are scared of medical examinations. When I read about a small boy snuggling to a blanket when a blood sample was taken, I felt my eyes filling up. This topic I've chosen is such a delicate and sensitive topic, everybody feels like adding to it.
I'm hoping to contact this project and seek some experience.
http://www.chomp.org/pulse/2003/winter03/linus.aspx
I'm hoping to contact this project and seek some experience.
http://www.chomp.org/pulse/2003/winter03/linus.aspx
Sunday, February 17, 2008
components
I am absolutely digging the idea of creating a security blanket. Since my target audience is usually in hospitals, I'm focusing on ideas that can help everybody to make the experience easier.
-Changing the color of the blanket is one of my focuses. It can be fun and also it might help the staff and family to monitor the temperature of the child. In this sense, I'm looking into thermochromic ink. But before all that, I want to know if it's ok to use it in a sterile environment.
http://www.geminnov.fr/
http://www.thermochromicinks.com
http://www.solaractiveintl.com/index.htm
http://www.siltechlimited.com/
http://www.pburch.net/dyeing.shtml
-Make syringes easier. This is an area that I'm not sure how to solve. Some children have to be on IVs, which is another hard experience. How can I integrate the IV needle into a blanket?
-The audio component: I already have a system of recording and playing back and it can be integrated into a blanket. At the moment I'm thinking about building a small audial system that might trigger the nurse staff when the child need help. Simply it is the same system with the nurse button by the bed.
-Smell: Jon pointed out a great aspect that I'm really excited about: the smell of the blanket. When it gets washed, the user it not happy with the outcome of it. What if there's a certain smell that never leaves the blanket?
-Washability: serious topic..
-Playable: Of course the material is very important for the child to feel all comfy and cozy. Besides it should carry some fun aspects to it. What if it's worn as a hoodie? What if the user squeezes the blanket that it gives a vibrating tactile feedback? What if it turns into a tent where you can play games inside? What if it has a teddy bear intergrated inside of it?
Friday, February 15, 2008
awwww
Doing research for my current topic is great! A lot of cute toys and blankets! This is a security blanket with a teddybear in the middle. Looks a little creepy cuz of the bear being cut off from the neck down... still cute!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Methodology Outline
Know your concept
Sketching for design and material
Build up the technology
- Construct Thesis Statement
- List the buzz words
- Present the timeline of the idea
- the concept
- the iterations
- the technology
- the design
- Research for hospitals
- Visit hospitals
- Speak to staff & doctors
- hospital rules for toys
- technology restrictions
- hygene restrictions
- sound restrictions
- common problems
- obvious suggestions
- Research the current situation in the area
- toys
- books
- gadgets
- games
- Research for common diseases
- Research the effects on children
Sketching for design and material
Build up the technology
- Look for projects that are already done in the field
- Interview the creators
- Interview the Users
- Research available technology
- Integrating technology with design
Thesis Statement
Since the project has changed a little, it seems like this is my almost final thesis statement:
Moomi is a tool of happiness, security and support fir children admitted to the hospital to undergo dangerous surgeries.
With this statement, I have new buzz words:
Kids, hospital, sickness, misery to happiness, lonely to supported.
Moomi is a tool of happiness, security and support fir children admitted to the hospital to undergo dangerous surgeries.
With this statement, I have new buzz words:
Kids, hospital, sickness, misery to happiness, lonely to supported.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Progress Report
So here's what happened:
Wednesday: Stephanie asked me to situate the project in a social content and also build a relationship between the keychain and the pillow.
Thursday: I went absolutely bipolar and starting changing my thesis into antithesis.
Friday: I got a nice kick in the head by my advisor and he commanded me to get the recorder all done by tuesday.
Weekend: Situating the project:
1.) A friend for users who are far away from home
2.) A Networking tool for kids./ A journal
3.) A supportive character for kids who are admitted to the hospital (listen to other kids' journal)/ staying with their babysitter for the first time/have divorced parents.
Tuesday: Yeah... The recorder is ready for some user testing. So today I will be working on the pillow and ways to get them to connect to each other. So that on Friday I will have some user feedback.
Wednesday: Stephanie asked me to situate the project in a social content and also build a relationship between the keychain and the pillow.
Thursday: I went absolutely bipolar and starting changing my thesis into antithesis.
Friday: I got a nice kick in the head by my advisor and he commanded me to get the recorder all done by tuesday.
Weekend: Situating the project:
1.) A friend for users who are far away from home
2.) A Networking tool for kids./ A journal
3.) A supportive character for kids who are admitted to the hospital (listen to other kids' journal)/ staying with their babysitter for the first time/have divorced parents.
Tuesday: Yeah... The recorder is ready for some user testing. So today I will be working on the pillow and ways to get them to connect to each other. So that on Friday I will have some user feedback.
Bipolar Cheecheee focusing on her work
After going back and forth on my statement, by the help of my thesis advisor I started focusing on my work back again... but I have to admit, it's so cold I can hardly think!
brrr!!
The first prototype is inspired by a character I've made. The idea is the same: there is a big one and a smaller one. This is the small keychain recorder that records sounds and so on.
The minute I got this done I understood what Stephanie meant by asking "What is the relationship between these two?". Ok, the mommy and the baby relationship is ok but it is lacking something that I couldn't put my finger on. But later, I came up with a newer version: a heart.
The scenario of this object is more solid because it is easier to understand the relationship between the keychain and speaker. The heart is the recorder and without the heart my dear plushie Moomi doesn't do anything but sob for the heart. (LED's dimming in and out) Sketches are coming up soon.
brrr!!
The first prototype is inspired by a character I've made. The idea is the same: there is a big one and a smaller one. This is the small keychain recorder that records sounds and so on.
The minute I got this done I understood what Stephanie meant by asking "What is the relationship between these two?". Ok, the mommy and the baby relationship is ok but it is lacking something that I couldn't put my finger on. But later, I came up with a newer version: a heart.
The scenario of this object is more solid because it is easier to understand the relationship between the keychain and speaker. The heart is the recorder and without the heart my dear plushie Moomi doesn't do anything but sob for the heart. (LED's dimming in and out) Sketches are coming up soon.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Working more on the kids side.
If I happen to work on a smaller audience, the situations are a lot more that i imagined. (I'm getting better impressions on children's audience than an older audience)
A couple in their 50s (dont even ask how we ended up talking about moomi) suggested to widen up the possibilities of the usage. Apparently both of their kids had problems with their first month with the babysitter and received calls every 5 minutes, so they've wished they knew me 30 years ago and be my target audience. :) Cute!
A couple in their 50s (dont even ask how we ended up talking about moomi) suggested to widen up the possibilities of the usage. Apparently both of their kids had problems with their first month with the babysitter and received calls every 5 minutes, so they've wished they knew me 30 years ago and be my target audience. :) Cute!
Planning the week
Since I've been struggling in focusing on my project, I'm planning things out now.
I will have the keychain recorder prototype done by tuesday. On Tuesday I will be working on my pillow and by the end of the week I will have some user feedback with grown ups.
I'm planning to speak to a couple of child psychiatrists to see if this might be a good way to get sick kids to feel better.
I will have the keychain recorder prototype done by tuesday. On Tuesday I will be working on my pillow and by the end of the week I will have some user feedback with grown ups. I'm planning to speak to a couple of child psychiatrists to see if this might be a good way to get sick kids to feel better.
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Scenarios
I've been thinking about some scenarios for Moomi and the users.
1.) Moomi is a social networking tool for kids in the age range of 5-12. When Moomi glows it means a friend is around. It sends recorded messages when the friend of the user.
(Here Moomi turned into a one piece toy. Rather than being a relief of loneliness it turned into a tool of communication.)
2.) When the idea of having the kids as a target audience married the idea about giving temporary relief to loneliness, this idea came out. What if Moomi is a companion specially designed for children admitted to the hospital with a tough disease (such as cancer). They are lonely and they do feel a need of support, even if their parents are there for them all the time.
Here another idea popped into my mind. What if Moomi had a story of a kid previously dealt with a similar disease and became a healthy child? So the sick kid would get support from a person who actually been through from the same suffering.
-I'm working on the tech spec map of this. It sounds like a good deal.
3.) The third option is to keep things the way they are, and relate the whole project with the age range I had before, 17-30. It feel random to have this age range.
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