Augmented Reality Test
using Aurasma to mock up a quick demo of how augmented reality could be used to show users new climbing routes.
App interface with image target + augmented overlay
BACK FROM BREAK | SHIFT TO APP
Over the break I thought a lot about the decision to eliminate the implementation of an app from my thesis. However, I am back on the app train. It allows the device functionality to be much more robust and versatile. Unlike, the previous iteration of the FitNest app, this version will work in conjunction with the climbing hold wall (need a proper name for that). First of all, the holds will now be installed on a modular system that allows them to be moved/rearranged by the user. Then with the app, users will be able to visualize various hold arrangements and route instructions through augmented reality.
UPDATE | FORMAT REVIEW
FIT FURNITURE
Putting the holds on hold, I shifted my attention to the furniture piece that doubles as exercise equipment. In contrast to traditional fitness equipment that stays stowed away in closets or garages, the idea for this piece is that it will fit seamlessly into the decor of a modern interior. This makes it easily accessible to the user promoting both impromptu and planned exercise at home. Below are renderings of the preliminary bench design which includes a set of adjustable dumbbells, a foam roller and a fitness mat.
3D PRINT TEST
Results from the first 3D print test (Crimp Climbing Hold) | Takeaways:
- For best results position model on flat edge
- Anticipate roughly 20 min per cubic inch at low resolution
- Magnet hardware covers should be bigger
- Consider alternative plastics / cnc wood
HOLDING ON!
Each hold is based on one of the 5 primary hold types used for indoor climbing (pinch, pocket, slopper, jug and crimp). Using Fusion 360, I model the abstract designs and generated quick renderings. The next step will be to do a 3D print test!
BRAIN ON PAPER
From conceptualizing rock climbing holds and fitness based furniture, to working out the construction/installation methods used to build them, the result are sketchy!
EXERCISE|Cards + Quick Pitch
For my latest user test I conducted a series of card sorting exercises in which a curated set of keywords pertaining to my thesis were presented to the users on flash cards. They were asked to organize the cards in groups however they wanted and to assign a name to each group. I then gave the user a set of image cards to pair with the categories they created. Lastly, the user was given 7 cards, with the words: health, fitness, interior design, Aesthetics, fun, convenience, and easy, and they were asked to organize them in order of importance.
From these exercises I was able to evaluate how users relate to my thesis domains and detect patterns to inform my designs. For example, I was very surprised to find out that in the first card sorting exercise every tester put the cards marked “technology” and “interface” into a group completely on their own. Therefore, I decided to re-evaluate their role in my designs…Does the use of technology in my designs feel isolated from the project concept? Does the FitFul Outlet need a mobile application at all? Can it/should it use on board controls? With these prompts in mind, I will develop a new prototype of the FitFul Outlet that employs more haptic methods for operating the device.
Also, after pitching FitNest to multiple people at the thesis science fair last Thursday, I identified some flaws in my current presentation. For example, it was brought to my attention that the audience for the FitNest Interior Design Guide was unclear. Some thought it was intended exclusively for interior design and architecture professionals. Therefore, when writing and presenting the guide in the future I will use a language that is familiar and relatable to my target audience.
Work by Tar 