I’ve started researching on How to Achieve a State of Anti-Sensory Overload in the digital space as a topic of interest in my work. And as they say, there is only one way to solve digital chaos – use an analog solution.
Doing the observation exercise inspired many ideas after visiting a cafe – while discretely taking notes on people, particularly on customers who are able to do work carve out a space to get stuff done. It truly bothered me. It’s not the zen-ish decoration or the aromatic, artisan blend of drinking a cup of espresso that sets customers to find focus, but coping with the chaos that a co-working space is prone to while sitting in the middle of the noisy chatter, infants screaming and blasted speakers playing the day’s top 100 hits.
Eyewear + Anti-Distraction Device = Focus Seeker
Although my solution doesn’t totally block the audio part, having a self-diagnosed visual distraction and social media unrest helped shape this idea of using blinders and find relief for a momentary visual block.
In terms of placement of this wearable device, I have also considered how I can utilize existing fashion item that I already wear, ie my trusty eyewear. Hence, the Focus Seeker was born.
Workshop 1
Materials:
- Adafruit Feather
- Mini Servo
- A 3d printed mechanism that swipes left and right
- Velcro
- Small Piece of Paper
- Needle and Thread
Prototype Testing with my Glasses
Using the knob example code on Arduino’s IDE, where the potentiometer manipulated the swiping servo, with the help of a 3d printed mechanism, and brought my fancy blinders into life.
Workshop 2:
For the workshop where we hooked up the muscle sensors, I serendipitously discovered how fitting it would be to connect a typing gesture to control the blinders.
Out of this analog blinder idea, I have made an infomercial that is a social commentary on Sensory Overload and society’s obssesion with productivity over the nefarious and evil of making things fast and efficient in the digital age.
DECK:
VIDEO:
Happy Path Journeys 