Module 1 Activity Research

Weekly Activity Template

Ada Walia

Project 1

Module 1

Before starting Project 1, my knowledge of TouchDesigner and microcontrollers was extremely limited. I was intimidated and excited by both concepts, but by doing the activities I was able to build a basic understanding of Arduino and TouchDesigner. The research phase helped me conceptualize an idea for the rest of the semester, and I found it very helpful to explore WGSN. I was especially interested in the “Rise of Gamified UX” because the concept of making life more enjoyable and fun is something very meaningful to me. This was reinforced by learning about the Energisers persona, which showcases a group of people looking for their tech to be rewarding and playful. This research helped shape my final concept in the Design path. It is rooted in helping people create and keep morning and night routines. My concept is a gamified physical alarm clock. Lastly, I was very happy to have the chance to present to peers. It allowed me to see what others were creating and also to receive helpful feedback on my idea.

Activity 1

Step 1:

Here is the Arduino Uno connected. The USB-B connects to the Arduino and the USB-A connects to the laptop. The green light is on showing that the laptop is providing power and communicating with the Arduino.

Step 2:

I have downloaded Arduino IDE. I confirmed the software was connected to my Arduino.

Step 3:

In the Arduino application I went to File, Examples, Basics, and then Blink, to load the sample code.

Step 4:

I uploaded the template and sent it to the Arduino. I also added a external LED to pin 13 and the GND. The LED now follows the code, blinking one second on, and one second off.

Step 5:

Here we expanded on the code in class connecting two leds and having them alternative switching on and off.

Activity 2

This screenshot shows ProtoPie Connect downloaded. This app allows the Arduino and ProtoPie to connect.

Here the ProtopieConnectTemHumid_withControls file is downloaded. It has the code for the temperature and humidity sensor. I am also downloading the Seeed_Arduino_AHT20 library by Baozhu Zuo.

This image shows the Arduino capturing the temperature, humidity, and degrees in the Arduino IDE application.

Here is the UI for this activity loaded on Protopie.

This last photo shows the activity completed. The iphone is connected to ProtoPie connect and is displaying the Arduino’s temperature and humidity data. The turn dial on the Arduino also changes the degree values.

Activity 3

Installing TouchDesigner from the website and setting up to prepare for the in-class activity.

Opening the PotSeedShield Arduino sketch before linking to TouchDesigner.

Opening the provided touch designer file.

Showing how turning the dial on the Arduino changes the circle shape in real time.

Starting building our own shape in TouchDesigner. The Arduino updates the numbers.

Research Activity

WGSN Consumer Trend Research

The two tech trends I focused on are gamified UX and Silver Tech. Gamified UX refers to turning everyday tasks into motivating, gamified experiences. Silver tech focuses on helping older adults live better, more independent lives as the global ageing population rapidly grows.

WGSN Personas Research

For the tech trend of gamified UX, I noticed that it appealed most to the energizers, who are people of all ages who use play to learn, connect, and reduce stress. For silver tech, I choose the conventionalists who prefer meaningful tech that supports connection.

HMI Research

The problem spaces I explored are sleep routines, learning to drive, cognitive and physical decline in seniors, and the need for real human connection.

Project Path

I’m leaning towards to design path becaue I want to create a user focused solution to a problem or need. I would prefer to work collaboratively.

Project 1 Concept

Project 1 Concept

Physical alarm clock connected to an app. The app allows users to complete challenges and create streaks. The alarm clock also allows a routine to be built in.

Use cases:

Designed to replace a phone in the bedroom
Prevents doomscrolling and morning distraction
Supports ADHD, depression, and executive function challenges

Features:

App sets alarms, snooze length, and ring duration
Alarm sends data back to the app for streaks and tracking
Users can set personal rewards for consistency
Routine steps can be programmed (e.g., brush teeth → ding → next task)

Logic:

Built using Makey Makey or Arduino (buttons for snooze and off)
Companion app created in ProtoPie

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