Module 3 Activity Research

Weekly Activity Template

Jingwen Han

Project 3

Module 3

In Module 3, we focused mainly on the design and assembly of an interactive lamp through hands-on prototyping and testing. We explored laser cutting, material adjustments, electronics integration, and iteration to solve issues that appeared during the making process. In addition, we participated in a classroom role-playing activity where we practiced guiding an older adult through using a mobile app, which helped us reflect on usability, communication, and user-centered design.

Workshop 1

For this workshop, we were assigned the task of onboarding a new user to a complex service app. Our scenario focused on helping an older adult learn how to purchase tickets using Ticketmaster. <a href='https://www.youtube.com/embed/tgbNymZ7vqY' target='_blank'><p>Project Video Link</p></a>

We introduced Ticketmaster to the older user and explained the basic interface, including how to search for events and understand event information.<div class='container'><iframe class='responsive-iframe' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/tgbNymZ7vqY'></iframe></div>

We guided the older user through selecting an event and navigating the seat selection process, providing step-by-step support when needed.

We helped the user fill in required information and explained each step to reduce confusion during the purchase process.

We assisted the user in reviewing the order and completing the checkout, ensuring they understood the final confirmation steps.

Activity 1: My Research

We researched decorative lamp patterns to understand surface design, structure, and how light passes through cut-out forms. <a href='https://www.youtube.com/embed/tgbNymZ7vqY' target='_blank'><p>Project Video Link</p></a>

We analyzed existing lamp designs to study how patterns affect light, shadow, and overall appearance. <div class='container'><iframe class='responsive-iframe' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/tgbNymZ7vqY'></iframe></div>

We translated the lamp pattern into vector drawings using Adobe Illustrator for precise control of shapes and details.

We refined the vector files and prepared them for laser cutting by adjusting line thickness and layout.

We exported the finalized Adobe Illustrator files as SVGs and used them for laser cutting to produce the lamp components.

Activity 2: My Research

We adjusted the lamp base after laser cutting, trimming one panel by hand because its original dimensions were incorrect.

We assembled the lamp structure and installed the internal electronics and wiring.

We tested the lamp with LEDs and sensors to check stability and functionality during assembly.

We continued refining the structure and ensured all components were properly connected and aligned.

We checked the internal layout of the lamp to confirm the electronics fit securely inside the enclosure.

Additional Research or Workshops

eWe researched LED strip options to understand lighting types, brightness, and flexibility for the lamp design.

We tested the newly replaced LED strip with an Arduino setup to check whether the lighting worked properly.

We experimented with Arduino code to control LED behavior and sensor input.

We connected the Arduino logic to ProtoPie to test how sensor data could control lighting interactions.

We refined interaction logic in ProtoPie by mapping sensor values to lighting responses.

Project 2

Project 3 Final Prototype

PLACEHOLDER TEXT, put a description here or you will lose grades

The Emotion Visualization Lamp is an interactive prototype that transforms emotional signals into light-based visual feedback. Building on the earlier version from Project 2, this updated design integrates Arduino sensors, ProtoPie data transmission, and an improved lighting system to create a more responsive and natural emotional interaction.

All sensor inputs are routed into ProtoPie, where predefined rules convert data fluctuations into corresponding color changes. This creates a direct and seamless link between physiological activity and the lamp’s visual output.

For Project 3, a wearable wristband prototype was added to house the heartbeat sensor more comfortably, improving usability and stability. The lighting component was upgraded with a brighter, more diffused LED strip to make the emotional feedback smoother and more immersive. ProtoPie is used to transmit real-time sensor data, enabling clearer visual communication between physical input and digital expression.

This iteration explores how emotional data can be represented in subtle yet meaningful ways, turning physiological signals into a calming and relatable visual experience.

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