16. applications and implications

This week, we focused on conceptualizing our final project. We aimed to define the purpose of the product, identify the target user, and plan the execution. This involved determining the necessary components and outlining the processes required to bring the design to life.

Product description

Inspired by the concept of Calm Technology, I wanted to create a product that could helps us become more aware of our bodies and reduce stress and anxiety. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, these emotions often diminish our quality of life and hinder our concentration and productivity.

User

This product is designed for people who work long hours at a desk. As stress and anxiety levels rise, it's crucial to design products that remind us to be present, unwind, and reconnect with our bodies.

What will it do?

This desk lamp will visually emulate breathing every 45 minutes. The purpose is to catch the user's attention and remind them to take 3 minutes to focus on their breathing using the 4-7-8 technique. This duration was chosen based on the time needed to complete 8 full breaths and the additional time required to recognize the visual cue and prepare for breathwork.

Who has done what beforehand?

I researched products that guide breathing to reduce stress and anxiety but found limited options.

• Breathing lamp, guided visual meditation tool for mindfulness
• Guided breathing device

However, I drew significant inspiration from origami projects and used them to evaluate possible mechanisms.

• 400 umbrellas programmed to dance like birds
• Responsive origami
• Origami structures

What will I design

• Lamp Design: Conceptualizing and designing the lamp.
• 3D Printed Components: Modelling and creating parts through 3D printing.
• Breathing Mechanism: Developing a mechanism to emulate breathing.
• PCB Design: Designing a PCB tailored to the project’s specific needs.

Components used

Here you will find all of the components needed to create a breathable origami lamp, as well as prices and possible buying sites.

Processes needed

Questions to be answered

To be honest, I am a bit nervous about making this a functional project, but I am also very excited to see how it turns out. While I am quite used to conceptualizing designs, I have only created a few fully functional designs throughout my academic experience. I know it will be a learning process, and many prototypes will be needed before arriving at the final solution. Despite this, I am excited and expect many more questions to arise throughout the development of this project.

• How will I power the 5V microcontroller and the 6V motor?
• How will I design an internal mechanism to keep the design clean?
• Will the mechanism work with strings attached to the motor?
• Will a spring be necessary to return the origami structure to its original position, or will its own tension be enough?

Evaluation

• Identifying the appropriate digital fabrication processes and materials to create a functional product.
• Designing and producing the proposed lamp.
• Creating a PCB that meets the specific requirements, components, and functions of the project.
• Ensuring the lamp is non-invasive and effectively helps reduce stress and anxiety in users.