06
Fall
2007
Over the past week, our team has focused on better organizing the structure, direction, and scope of our project.Finalized Team Idea ConceptFirstly, we have finalized our idea concept, which we’ve aptly titled “Sustain-a-Stack.”Once the team project was eventually agreed upon, we immediately began assessing the needs, requirements, and assumptions associated with this project. Given the obvious reliance on plant growth and an eco-friendly environment, we developed a rough prototype that would assess the influence of two red LEDs on a small plant over a one week period.We began this process by purchasing a holding chamber in which to house the plant and secure the LEDs in place. Secondly, we purchased an individual plant from Home Depot; given that we were interested in results, we decided it would be best to select a plant that appeared unhealthy. Lastly, we purchased two flashing LEDs. The prototype can be seen below.After securing all the components, we watered the plant, documented its current state, and placed the chamber is a dark lukewarm area (in this case, a school locker) for a week.Over time (as seen in the images below), we notice an obvious improvement in color and growth. While, we’re aware that many forces and influences could be responsible, we are more confident in our project’s potential. Box Design Night Vision Before AfterWhat we found most interesting was the plant’s growth towards the light. In considering this, there is an obvious correlation between the LEDs and plant’s physical transformation.Team DynamicsThirdly, our team will be separated into 2 sub-teams to better accommodate the demands and requirements of this project. Although we still form a single entity and meet as a team on a weekly basis, for the purposes of productivity, this change was only logical and collectively agreed upon. The decision to form sub-teams was also influenced by individual team member’s availability.The sub-teams are as follow: MAX/MSP Interface / ResearchBrian / Samanthi / Kiks / ManuelThis team will concentrate on wireless control/stats capabilities, as well as interface design and research.Physical EnvironmentDerek / Andrew / KurtisThis team will address the physical environment (i.e. the plants, soil, water-pump system, research, LEDs etc.) and associated research.Research CompletedLightingIn terms of lighting, we focused on the importance of color and angle. While we came across various color combinations, we began to consider the negative appearance of a rainbow spectrum. After such a realization, we began researching the potential of white LEDs.Type of PlantsSince our team has virtually no background in horticulture, we will be centering our research on low-maintenance plants. Further research is necessary.Watering systemAt this point, we have considered various pumps, but have taken into account the presence of noise.
05
Fall
2007
We began this assignment by using a voting method, which consisted of each team member using colored dots as an indication of their impressions of each project idea (pink dots indicated a negative impression, while green ones signaled that of a positive association). Further, each member was permitted to use two dots for each idea. This was an effective process as it allowed each member to voice support and concerns. Lastly, we critiqued the ideas by encouraging each member share his/her own opinion — this allowed each member to voice specific issues.
The results (as seen in the photo below) indicated unanimous support for the “Scribble This,” a positive majority for “Remind Me,” and the collective rejection of “IM Sunglasses.”
Below is a tally for each idea:
Positive |
Negative |
|
“IM Sunglasses” |
— |
|
“Remind Me” |
+++ |
- |
“MotoV8″ |
++ |
– |
“Scribble This” |
++++++ |
|
“MoSo” |
+ |
- |
We then continued our process by utilizing the SCAMPER method. With this method, we attempted to modify and improve our current ideas. Along the way, we were also encouraged to pursue new tangents that might culminate in an entirely new concept. Although we attempted to brainstorm other potential features for each of our ideas, we found that only two of the new features would serve as a possible improvement. Further, we found that we spent the majority of our effort attempting to rework and improve our the team’s most feasible idea, Scribble This.
The proposed improvements that were created during the brainstorm include:
* Remind Me - Aside from providing the user a reminder of forgotten items, this product will also provide a weather update. We felt that this would be a great addition in light of Vancouver’s unpredictable weather and the frequent inability to judge how warm/cold it is outside without stepping outside one’s home. Recommendations for such things as sunscreen or an umbrella could be a great asset.
* Scribble This - In addition to allowing the user to save information from the whiteboard onto a USB drive, this product also:
1. allows the user to upload information or previous “scribbles” on the whiteboard from the computer.
2. utilizes transformative programming that can handle non-text “scribbles” and convert them to vector images.
3. offer a laser optical mouse, which can be used to draw on the whiteboard.
After noting the suggestions, we reevaluated our ideas and narrowed down our choices to a list of three: Scribble This, Remind Me and Moto V8. However, as the group consensus indicated a general dissatisfaction with our ideas in general, we attempted something new and radically different from what we had previously developed. The result of this brainstorm was an entirely original and universally liked idea — “Sustain-a-Stack!”
Although a detailed and descriptive diagram of “Sustain-a-Stack” can be seen below, it would be logical to outline a brief overview of the product. As implied by the title, “Sustain-a-Stack” is a self-sustainable series of stackable “systems” that may consist of aquariums, small single plant based gardens, and/or terrariums. The central idea behind the project being the conservation of space through chic nature-based furniture. One can configure the blocks in any desired form. There were also discussions regarding possible additions that might include a table-based center, on which one could work/read/create.
The selection criteria that our team developed consists of the following:
- Cost — As noted in the initial project description, there is an imposed price limit. Secondly, we’re students and very few of us have cash to throw around.
- Skill sets — In discussing this criterion as a group, it was decided that we’d like to work with specific skill sets that motivate us to create polished products (for our team, this skill is the construction/building of prototypes).
- Research/Time — Although this class does cover eight months, we don’t have an open-ended schedule that permits weeks and weeks of in-depth research.
- Customer Needs — Given that we’d like to create a product that has appeal — at least to a specific group — it is essential to consider the current market.
- Functionality — It is important to consider the actual interaction with the chosen product. Will the product’s functionality enhance some form of interaction?
- Feasibility — This is a tremendously important factor — can we create a product that will work as we intend it to?
- The Fun Factor — Most importantly, will we enjoy working on this project?
Moto V8 |
Remind Me |
Scribble This |
Sustain-a-Stack |
|
Time Required? |
More |
Less |
Medium |
More |
Skills Involved? |
-Database |
-Interaction |
-Programming |
-Construction |
Background Research? |
Kinesiology |
RFID Sensors |
-Touch Detection |
-Wattage -Self-contained ecosystems -Water pressure -Plant growth |
Customer Needs? |
-Weight loss -Exercise efficiency |
-Reminder |
-Link between print and technology -Idea storage system -Visual aid |
-Sustainability -Urban Nature -Hobby |
Our Interest? |
Motivational |
Enhances Memory |
Quick information transfer |
-Eco-friendly |
Judging by the above checklist, there is certainly a positive slant towards the “Sustain-a-Stack” largely because of team’s interest in the project content; although, obviously with such a project there are downsides (it would require considerable time investment, research, and testing). Perhaps the next most promising idea is “Scribble This” because it appears to have a direct correlation to our skillsets (minus construction) and the product itself is something students would be interested in. Unfortunately, both “MotoV8″ and “Remind Me” appear to be write-offs — both have considerable downsides, which include too much/too little time investment and research requirements outside our scope of interest.A ranking list might look something like this:
I.) “Sustain-a-Stack”
II.) “Scribble This”
III.) “MotoV8″/”Remind Me”
As seen in the above decision-making matrix, there is an obvious preference for “Sustain-a-Stack.” Notice that we eventually used “Scribble This” as a neutral project off which we could assess our other ideas (since it appeared to be the most feasible project given our skillsets and project demands, in spite our mixed interests in persuing such an idea). Not suprisingly, “Sustain-a-Stack” championed the demand, functionality, and fun criterions, while scoring noticeably low on cost and feasability. While, inevitably, such a project is bound to have a considerable financial investment, it’s obvious that our team is willing to incur such a hit to work on something we’ll derive satisfaction from. In retrospect, “Sustain-a-Stack” may likely score neutral or positive in terms of the feasability criterion. Again, the evaluation of both “MotoV8″ and “Remind Me” convey our general distaste for each idea; although, it should be noted that we attempted unbiased assessments.We made a unanimous decision to follow through with the “Sustain-a-Stack” product idea. The team believes in the concept of sustainability and creating an eco-friendly project.
In general, the most difficult stage of the decision-making process was our collective dissatisfaction with the ideas we developed in week two. To clarify, we hardly think we developed weak ideas; instead, it became obvious that we spent too much time attempting to solve specific everyday problems and less time brainstorming our interests. As a team, we intend on striving to create a product that excites us. To arrive at an idea such as “Sustain-a-Stack” is a great breakthrough, but the product is without its issues either. Brainstorming and reevaluation will be a constant, everchanging process for our team.
Do the results make sense?
The decision-matrix method resulted in a tie between “Scribble This” and “Sustain-a-Stack,” which is somewhat disconcerning. However, when weighing out the advantages and disadvantages with each specific criteria used in comparing the top four, it can be said that our criteria were well-selected. If anything, the results encouraged us to assess the weakness of “Sustain-a-Stack.”
Does the team feel comfortable with the results?Yes, given our original dissatisfaction with our ideas, the results have been comparably pleasing; although, we realize there is much more assessment needed in the future.
If you did it again, would it come out differently?
After class, the team met to more accurately define the Sustain-a-Stack and a respective functionality set. We further discussed the type of research, materials and tasks we require to make this concept feasible. This re-evaluation of the team’s new idea would, in effect, change the results of the decision-making matrix (as we had more time to expand on the “Sustain-a-Stack” idea). Effectively, the “Sustain-a-Stack” would score a higher rating.
Do you need more information to do it properly?
These decisions were made with thoughtful consideration, but more background research on each of the ideas would certainly result in a more accurate and un-biased decision-matrix.
04
Fall
2007
During Week Two, the team spent days exchanging and developing ideas. The first thing that we did was get together and brainstorm 20 verbs and 20 adverbs, and combined them to form interesting action combinations; Collectively Wait, Tenderly Master, Visually Analyze, Easily Extract, Obnoxiously Produce, Accidentally Love, and Hungrily Enslave. After coming up with word combinations, we began brainstorming project ideas. The ideas varied from interesting, respectable, solid, crappy and even ridiculous. However, the ideas were pretty bland when put up against Octobox standards.
To recap our entire process of generating 20 verbs and 20 adverbs, please see the image below, which recaps our entire process:
From the above lists, we formed the series of seven combinations.
Quick recap:
Da-Streets Headband
This electronic device visually identifies people and advises the user on what do to in their presence. This is helpful when treading through gang infested neighborhoods.
Tactical Pants Retaining System
Also known as the belt, our rendition would carry sensors that measure weight and waistline to help encourage people to get rid of their bellies.
Muggle
The smilie on the mug reacts its contents. Warning you if it’s too hot or stale or it’s going to taste like bleh.
IM Sunglasses
Voice recognition that displays text of what people are saying on your glasses so you don’t miss a thing!
After really considering them, though, we decided that most of the ideas weren’t very… good. So, we went back to the drawing board and brainstormed once more:
Which led to these five ideas:
Experience | Sensory Input | Action | Context |
1.) Not understanding/hearing what people say during conversations |
Sound (Voice) |
Displaying sound in a visual-textual form |
Talking to people in general; Classes/Lectures; Overcoming nervousness |
2.) Maintaining a consistent exercise plan while monitoring calorie intake |
Touch/Vital Signs |
Inputting calorie intake/monitoring calories burned (wear while exercising) |
After meals/snacks & while exercising |
3.) Forgetting ordinary objects that are necessary for everyday use |
Touch |
Scanning objects at the door (before one leaves their home) |
When leaving the home (for work, school, etc.) |
4.) Transcribing white board markings directly onto one’s desktop |
Touch (Wireless Sensors) |
Writing on a white board |
Quick group brainstorming (at school, work, etc.) |
5.) Boredom on Public Transit |
Touch (Wireless Signal between Devices) |
Receive signal (vibrating action) + transmitting |
Cultural/Social Play |
1) IM Sunglasses
During important conversations, IM Sunglasses will sharpen your focus and ensure you won’t miss a single word.
Sanjay arrives at school early one morning and strikes up a conversation with a female classmate. While ordinarily he becomes flustered when talking to women in face-to-face conversations, the IM Sunglasses allow Sanjay to inconspicuously reference a textual representation of the discussion. With the ability to occasionally glance at the specific words and phrases, Sanjay can maintain his composure if he happens to become temporarily distracted or frazzled.
Description:
The IM Sunglasses are a wearable device that capture vocalizations (during conversations, lectures, etc.) and transforms them into text, which is then displayed on the inner side of the device (to be read by the user). While the primary target audience consists of IM users, the device may also appeal to users with social anxieties, those who are forgetful, and those who experience hearing difficulties.
2) MotoWeight
While monitoring your workout regime and calorie consumption, Moto V8 serves as a supportive and helpful personal trainer.
On a Tuesday morning, Sheila plans on scheduling her workout for the late afternoon. After consulting her MotoWeight she recalls her last session and a suggested guideline for her next workout. Throughout the day, whenever consuming a meal or a snack, Sheila consults the MotoWeight to input her calorie intake by finding the food/drinks in the device’s database. Later that day during her workout, she attaches the MotoWeight to her arm. At the end of the day, Sheila consults the device for a charted comparison of her calories burned and those that were consumed.
Description:
MotoWeight is a portable weight loss and exercise manager. In monitoring the user’s workout regimes, it provides suggestions for improvement (exercises that may be overlooked) and tracks the number of calories burned for future reference. Concurrently, MotoWeight also encourages the user to input diet information. Upon entering specific foods and drinks, the device will tally the user’s calorie intake. On request, the device will create daily/weekly comparisons between calorie intake and calories burned, providing the user with a perspective on the success of their diet and lifestyle. While this may appeal more to professional athletes, users who are keen on dieting or losing weight will also be interested.
3) Remind Me
Before you leave the house, Remind Me prevents you from forgetting anything of importance.
Fran is experiencing yet another hectic morning and is in a rush to get to school on time. She grabs her backpack, her house keys, and her cell phone. Upon arriving at her front door, she approaches the Remind Me system and is scanned. A checklist appears on the screen and notifies Fran that she has forgotten her bus pass. She is also informed of the current thermostat reading. After addressing both concerns, Fran leaves her house with the satisfaction that she’s avoided another predicament.
Description:
Remind Me is an interactive manager that ensures users will not forgot anything of importance before they leave their homes. More specifically, the user attaches RFID tags to objects that he/she uses on a daily basis (i.e. bus pass, credit cards, wallet, keys, glasses, etc.). Upon approaching his/her front door, the system will scan the user to check whether all programmed objects are present. The system also notifies the user of information such as the current thermostat reading, which may remind the user to turn down the heat before leaving. This device can be targeted to users of all ages, but those who are particularly forgetful will be most interested.
4) Scribble This
Writing on white boards becomes digital with Scribble This.
With a deadline approaching, Manny is amidst a productive team brainstorm. Rather than disrupt the team’s flow and migrate the team’s focus onto a computer, Manny encourages the team to complete their ideas in a rough state on a white board. After the ideas have been finalized, Manny plugs his Flash Drive into the white board and uploads a digital version. He then modifies it on this computer and with time to spare, works with his team to prepare a presentation.
Description:
Scribble This is a specialized white board that converts writing into digital text (i.e. for use in a Word document) and diagrams into vectors (i.e. for use in programs such as Adobe Illustrator). While many similar devices exist on the market (most notably the SmartBoard), Scribble This is unique in its conversion capabilities that allow users with Flash Drives or other USB devices to quickly transfer rough work into a presentable digital state on their laptop or personal computer. Given the context of the product, it is best targeted to university/college students and businesses.
5) MoSo (Mobile Social Networking) Device
MoSo unites people with common interests, initiating friendships and more!
Timothy takes the SkyTrain on a daily basis. Under ordinary circumstances, he would find himself bored and unwilling to converse with nearby passengers, but with the MoSo Device, Timothy is able to find someone who shares his affinity for professional wrestling. The device pinpoints the location of the passenger and Timothy initiates an absorbing conversation and perhaps, a new friendship.
Description:
MoSo is a social networking device that encourages interaction between users in close proximity who share similar interests, but may not meet under ordinary circumstances. Once a user has input a list of his/her interests, hobbies, and other personal information, the device will search for other nearby users. Instances where the device is best utilized are in public transit and in other large public places. This product will likely have wide appeal to most age groups.
03
Fall
2007
During Week One, the Octobox team went through an incredible creative process to not only find out about ourselves and our goals as individuals, but as a team. The first task was to form a team and find out what our individual and team skills were. We created our own “skill maps”, and then combined them into one large map to get a better idea of what skills are available in our team:
The second task of our process was to come up with a team name and logo. Since we have a team of 8, we decided to go with a name that reflected that. Our original name was “Cre-8″ (a play on the word “Create”), while our logo consisted of a cute little Octopus (because it has eight legs). After some careful consideration, we ended up changing our name to “Octobox”- we felt that “Cre-8″ was a bit too cheesy, and the word “box” allowed us to be more creative with our logo. Below is the final team logo/mascot:
he third task was to apply the logo to another form, in order to show our collective “team spirit.” We decided to go with a t-shirt:
The fourth task included creating a vision statement. The vision statement encapsulates who we are and what we hope to accomplish as a team:“As a collective entity, Octobox creatively pursues fulfilling ideas with a manic appetite for fresh innovations.“Finally, the fifth task was to come up with a joke. Keeping the “octopus” theme in mind:“How many octopuses does it take to screw in a light bulb?““1/8!“