Module 2 Activity Research

Livia Kurti

Physical Interaction Visualizing Data

Project 2

Module 2

In this model, I started creating prototypes and practicing prototype making using the Guerilla Prototyping method. I also learned projection mapping, which I later applied to my own project to build additional prototypes.

In-Class Activity 1 Guerilla Prototyping I

For my first workshop, I used the video Best DIY Cardboard Phone Stand Without Any Glue by Maker Brain. I chose the version that doesn’t require glue and started making it.

After a few errors and retries and since I didn’t have a ruler—I still managed to make the prototype by following the video.

Then came the part where I needed to improve it, so I started by sketching out how I could make the design better.

So I chose to turn those rectangular steps into hooks so they can adjust the angles during prototyping.

Now it can be adjust the angle and the amount of space where a phone or tablet can be placed but I still think more improvements can be made.

In-Class Activity 2 Guerilla Prototyping/TouchDesigner II

So, projection mapping was very interesting, especially how the vertical and horizontal lines looked so precise and useful when projected. It was fascinating to see the lines appear only through the projector.

Even more interesting was how unusual and unique shapes could be created as well showing hom much potential TouchDesigner has.

The most interesting part was how to add effects to them.

But when I tried to do the same KantanMapper didn’t work as it was shown in class, and even the noise couldn’t be connected to either.

I was struggling with TouchDesigner because I had problems connecting my home projector to it but I could build but it wasn't the same.

Activity 1: My Research

My goal was to make something interesting and simple, possibly incorporating Arduino design and interactive elements. I was thinking of creating a Canada Wonderland inspired piece using copper tape or wires, so that when a lamp is placed down, it triggers a projection mapping display, changes the colour inside the lamp, and plays different sounds.

So I started prototyping the weight sensing part.

Later, I wanted to create or add a 'bounce-back' effect or feeling (which also opens the circuit at the same time).

However, the bouncing effect made it unstable, so I had to go back to square one.

I returned to the idea where plain cardboard kept the copper apart, and only the lamp’s weight could push it down until the two copper tapes met but unlike the first one i made it half the size so lamp more esasly can push it down.

Activity 2: My Research

Now I wanted to experiment with TouchDesigner so that when a user touches lamp with different “circles/put object down”, it triggers or shows different things. I also wanted to add lights, so I planned to use an LED sticker (since I didn’t have any LEDs around), but it didn’t work. I decided to go ahead without it. Last semester had many issues with it, so I was happy not to have to deal with LED stickers again.

For now, I first cut two rectangular pieces of cardboard and applied some copper tape to them. This is mainly to test whether Arduino can read, so that later I can use it as a 'weight sensor' or when the two copper tapes meet it can activate different projection mappings effect.

By using the touch detector design shown in class, I created a similar prototype. When the two parts are put together, they activate, or the lamp can be placed on it.

After that, I tried my best, but unfortunately, I still encountered issues while trying to create an “if variable” (switch + logic) setup so that when it’s 0, it shows a rectangle with an effect, and when it’s 1, it shows a circle.

At least Arduino was able to read the data, so the only thing I can do now is look up more TouchDesigner tutorials for Project 3.

Project 2 Final

Project 2 Prototype

For the time being, I’ve ended up choosing this, since it feels like the best direction to take while I continue to explore other possibilities.

Reflecting on my project, I realize that I am still lacking in progress. Working as a one person team has been challenging, and I often find myself struggling to manage all parts of the project, which has caused delays and made me aware that I am behind schedule.
At the start, I wanted to design a sensor based artwork involving a lamp and flowers, which I later simplified so that the interaction could happen using copper tape or wires. The lamp would activate projection mapping experience when the user placed it down.
Working alone pushed me to explore more artistic directions and think about how to combine or draw inspiration from multiple ideas. I began by looking for sources of inspiration to guide my prototyping process. However, as I worked on it, the prototype started to feel very basic and unorganized. I found myself questioning what is this even supposed to do? Is there a story behind it? Why would a user need to put the lamp in different positions? These questions made me realize that I need a stronger narrative or reason behind the interactions I am designing. I also started thinking about how to make the lamp placement more engaging. For example, I got suggestion to do 3D printing/laser cutting to create shapes like flowers or flat objects could encourage interaction and make the experience more compelling. This sparked ideas for ways to merge artistic design with functional technology, but I still have a lot of work to organize and refine my approach.
There were multiple times when I started to hate the project and just wanted to give up, considering doing something very basic but at least it’s “work’s”. Despite these moments of frustration, I kept going, learning to balance technical execution with creative exploration. Overall, this project has been a reminder that being a solo designer requires patience, reflection, and iteration to turn a rough prototype into something meaningful.

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