This week was all about prototyping! We got to create four different prototypes based on the design concepts that we scored the highest last week. It was really fun playing around with materials and figuring out the easiest ways to communicate ideas with low-fidelity construction. Watching all the teams iterate through designs and prototypes at various stages of completion was really interesting (see this photo of Peter with H&H’s tactor headband on), and my team especially had a blast getting to assemble a bunch of different ideas. It helped us get on the same page about our designs, and I think we’re all excited to start using higher fidelity materials to help them come to life.

We also got to start working on our project pitch for showcase, which was really fun. It was nice to take a step back and look at the project from the highest level, as we decided how best to tell the story of our work this summer. I think it reminded all of us about the impact of our project, and that what we’re working on actually matters. We got to practice by ourselves and then with the leadership team, in preparation for getting feedback next week. Showcase is so close, which is nerve-wracking, but it’s exciting thinking about how we want to present our ideas.

Next week my team will focus on developing our prototypes. We plan on using better materials like wood and acrylic to construct medium fidelity designs, and trying to incorporate a circuit system which will turn the UV lights on and off when doors are opened and closed (think the light inside your fridge). We’ll also be able to get feedback on our pitch presentation and work on that some more. Last week before showcase week! It’s crunch time.