Embracelet

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  Embracelet (TM)

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  Divergent phase 1

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  Divergent phase 2

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  Convergent phase 1

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  Convergent phase 2

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  Prototype

Inspiration

We started out by investigating the human senses and how we choose to perceive the world around us. It became clear to us that sight was by far the most dominent sense. In a complex and increasingly disconncted world, we wanted to bring people closer together and in a whole new and authentic fashion. We chose to focus on our sense of smell, since this is the best sense at recollecting memories. Meanwhile, a french company is allowing customers to purchase a perfume based on the personal scent of their loved ones.

What it does

Embracelet(TM) allows people to feel more connected with one another, regardless of physical distance. It combines the sense of touch with the sense of smell by triggering a physical response via touch with the personal scent of a loved one, making personal and authentic connection possible. Embracelet(TM) is a bracelet with a touch-surface that transmits touch from one bracelet to another by vibration. Further, a small compartment holds a tiny piece of absorbent that has been drenched in the personal perfume. The compartment is closed which ensures a controlled approach as to when and where the smell is active.

How we built it

The build is a two-part build: Firstly a concept-model was built in Photoshop which serves as a guideline towards the final product design. Secondly a prototype was built with Arduino boards, bluetooth connectors, a button (to simulate touch) and a buzzer (to simulate vibration).

Challenges we ran into

Our technical capabilities are basically none-existant, so making the prototype proved to be a huge challenge. We spent most of our time developing and maturing the concept behind the design, and less time on actually building it.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We feel that we have come up with a novel and interesting design-concept that when built correctly has a potential in the real world. Further, our preliminary goals and design-principles have been well met, and we are proud to have come up with a unique take on how we experience the world and stay connceted.

What we learned

We learned that we are capable of creating something interesting, wacky but useful on the basis of different design-concepts, restrictions and principles. However, we also learned that our technical skills are lacking severely, but also that we have the curiosity to learn more about physical prototypes.

What's next for Embracelet

We need to build and test a more functional prototype. This will allow us to understand what Embracelet is lacking and perhaps whether it's too wacky or novel.

Built With

• arduino
• photoshop