Blow up a Balloon in computer
This is a project explored interaction by blowing between humans and computers. There are mainly 2 parts of this project: installation and software. The installation part is a container for Arduino as well as a blowing device. And the software part is controlled by processing, presenting visual and auditory reaction to audiences.
The series of interactions is based on blowing and including 4 different scenarios: plastic windmill, party balloon, dandelion, and soap bubbles.
Background:
2020 is a tough year for most of us. Almost every single person experienced or is experiencing solitude at home and isolating away from other people, the natural world, and outdoor activities. To kill time and keep away from loneliness, we seek all kinds of electronic products for fun, TV, pc, smartphone, pad, etc.
The reasons why interaction needs to be diverse are as following:
1.Tired of traditional interaction because of a long period use
Compared with normal times, there is no doubt that we spend many more hours interacting with those electronic products since all communications and entertainment are happening virtually. Whereas, the interaction is limited: listening, touching, speaking, and watching. Imagine a normal day in your previous experience, how many interactions happen between you and other people? There are a lot more interesting interactions including hugging, kissing, slapping, jumping, and so on. If we are restricted to do only 4 interactions(listening, touching, speaking, watching) with the computer then we will easily get bored.
2.People prefer reality
You might argue that computer games are always attractive and interacting with a mouse and keyboard makes you feel exciting. Then I will say that is not everyone is that much into computer games. The point is that in this special period, the thing people urging about is “reality”. However, these traditional interactions can only link to virtual things, like typing a note, attending an online session.
Design process:
This project is a creative work so it did not produce in a linear way. On the other hand, testing, prototyping, adjusting, and iterating consist huge part of it.
After some in lab tests, I tried to present my work in public which is a tricky thing by then. Fortunately, schools unlocked in June so I bring my project to kids in my community.
Thanks for your attention and hope you had fun.
We believe that "This too shall pass.":)
