We were tasked to create an interface that encourages a speculative approach to interfaces. We decided to create an interface that dealt with mental health.
Our device creates algorithmic sound and music based on the users heart rate to calm them down to a stable level. I have in the past sent this project off to a social care company that was potentially interested in implementing this into their system of care for people with anxiety or autism. It can also be used for a more generalised activity such as exercising as a relaxation device after a session playing football for example. The manual I created had to be unconventional so I designed it similar to an old 1960s 35mm film camera manual. The use of humour and satire is reminiscent of the recent reintroduction of Ladybird books.
The device itself was coded entirely in CircuitPython. It consisted of an Adafruit board with a battery and heartrate sensor. The code I created would calculate the heartrate based on a calculation using a 6 second sample of data. The case was 3D printed and a leather strap was added.
