1. Principles and practices

The first class of the course began with an introduction and summary of what to expect. I found myself in a world-class Fablab inside the Dassault Systemes corporate office in Waltham, Massachusetts. I was experiencing the whole idea of a remote class for the first time and I have to say, it was very different. I liked that I was connected to all the different Fablabs at the same time. I really think that this is the way things will be done in the future. Neil talked about how crossing the boundary between digital and physical and the the whole concept of Fablabs making fablabs really fascinated me.

This is what the lecture looked like:

Final Project Idea

What is it?

For my final project, I had ideas that were either too ambitious or too simple. After Neil talked about the spiral development, I had a better understanding on how to approach the final project. After much contemplation and thinking, I finally decided on a bag that you can only open with a passcode or fingerprint.

Oftentimes, I find myself leaving my bag unattended in various public places, be it the gym, get-togethers, or cafes. So knowing that only I can open it, gives me a sense of peace and allows me to enjoy the moment more. I remember an acquaintance who lost all her money she was carrying in her bag while travelling when she went to use the restroom in an airplane.

Here is a VERY basic sketch of my idea.

To initially use the bag, you would have to download an app that connects to your bag via bluetooth. Next, you set up your passcode on the app and then you’re ready to go! To add complexity to the project, I may explore adding gps to the bag or setting up an alert when it gets more than a certain distance away from you.

Who will use it?

My initial customer target is women who will carry this bag to social gatherings. It will be small enough to carry around but big enough to fit a wallet and phone.

Assessment Guide

Read the Fab Charter

Sketched your final project idea/s

Described what it will do and who will use it