Week 4 was all about brainstorming, evaluating solutions, and lo-fi prototyping. Each of our team members each took the time to come up with 20 solutions, and we ended up around ~80 solutions. We focused on the different ways the tactors can be placed, as well as the material and configuration the attachment mechanism can take. After this brainstorming session, we used the design blocks we came up with last week to create a morph chart, which consisted of categories of Material, Mechanism, Theme, Attachment, Number of Actuators, Types of Haptics, and Shape. From morphing, we came up with 10 more solutions where each team member explained and defined their own solutions. After putting them through the Pugh screening matrix, we ended up with 4 good solutions that can go into the scoring matrix.
brainstorming with sticky notes
LRA actuators
At the same time, we started creating some lofi prototypes to help visualize and communicate our ideas. We 3d printed some housing for the actuators and attached them onto pipe cleaners to function like a headband. For the actuators, we started soldering them onto wires that connect to the amplifier. It was a long process, but we ended up with 8 perfectly soldered tactors! Moreover, after more testing with the sound card, we were able to output from more channels and control each tractor individually.
On Thursday, we had our last networking lunch. It was great talking to Rice360 team members and Rice Faculty. There were some amazing conversations and it was fascinating to learn about everyone’s experiences. I got to ask a lot of career related questions and got some very valuable feedback and advice.
Group lunch:)
Next week, we are going to continue to iterate upon the prototype and start some user testing!