Play By Ear Adaptive Ear Clips
Beayue Louie a 2013 student project info@beayue.com
Our sense of self is often shaped by how we think others see us. Thus, the way we express ourselves through clothing and accessories plays an important role in the development of our identity. This serves true for both individuals with a disability and those without. Frequently, however, individuals with a disability are denied this freedom by the lack of products in the market that take their physical capabilities into consideration. For individuals with arthritis, in particular, the ability to put on earrings easily or independently is a common, daily act of self-expression denied to them by their disability.
Table of Contents Ground Work
Prototyping
Empathy Study I 4 Simulating Osteoarthritis 4
Phase 1 Prototyping 23 Ideation Sketches 23 Form 24 Lever Mechanism & Stress Points 25
Empathy Study II 6 Safe Dark Place 6 Non-Visual Cues 7 Precedent Research 8 GearWrench X-BEAM Ratcheting Wrench 8 Disability Research 9 Osteoarthritis 9
Participatory Design C0-Creation 10 Finding a Co-Creator 10 Portrait of a Co-Creator 11 Cultural Probe 12
Ideation Visual Design Brief 17 Everybody Has a Story 17 Concept Ideation 18 Concept No. 1 18 Concept No. 2 19 Concept No. 3 20 Concept No. 4 21 Concept No. 5 22
Market Research 26 Precedents 26 Phase 2 Prototyping 27 Ideation Sketches 27 Form 29 Wearability 30 Concept Development 31 Research 31 Ergonomics 35 Phase 3 Prototyping 37 Form 37 Body Motion Studies 38 Assembly & Interchangeability 39 Concept Proposal 40
Refining the Design User Trial 41 Set-Up 41 Form 43 Phase 4 Prototyping 48 Wild Card Ideation 48 Phase 5 Prototyping 49 Detachable Handle 49 Attached Handle 50
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Final Design 52 Concept Drawings 52 Clip Covers 53 Finished Prototype 54
Beayue Louie
Simulating Osteoarthritis Patricia Moore Assignment
In 1979, Patricia Moore, an internationally renowned gerontologist and designer, conducted an experiment to see what life was like as an elderly person. For three years, she altered her body to simulate the normal sensory changes associated with aging. Students were tasked with conducting a similar experiment over three days in order to gain a better understanding of what life is like dealing with a permanent medical condition.
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Day 3 Day 2Day 1
Empathy Study I Experiment Parameters
As arthritis is the most prevalent chronic health condition in Canada, I chose osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, for my disability as it can strike anyone regardless of age, physical condition, ethnicity or genetics. I isolated the condition to both my hands as that would cause the greatest disruption in my daily life as both a student and a designer. To mimic the degenerative nature of the disease, I created a ring and splint system that would increase the amount of inflammation, stiffness and pain I would experience each day.
Day 1 On the first day, I created rings out of masking tape and foam that would mimic the swelling of the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joint, the middle knuckle of each finger. Day 2 On the second day, I added a second ring on each finger to mimic the swelling of the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint, the top knuckle of each finger. I deliberately made these second rings snug to impede blood circulation in order to decrease the sensitivity of my finger pads. I also added a wooden splint to each finger to limit my range of motion. Day 3 On the third day, I added an additional layer of foam to the PIP joint to mimic severe inflammation so it would be difficult to bring my fingers close together. I also reinforced the splints with a second piece of wood to remove any range of motion in my PIP and DIP joints. Additionally, I connected each splint to a wooden bangle with an elastics in order to provide resistance at the knuckles and chronic pain along the back of my hands and wrists.
Beayue Louie
Empathy Study I
Day 3 My perception of time changed drastically. The most simplest of routines, such as dressing, felt like large undertakings. I had difficulty concentrating on tasks and became dehydrated as I unintentionally began to avoid using circular faucet taps. I also lost my sense of professional self-worth as I could no longer work unaided or with any accuracy or efficiency.
Findings
Simulating Osteoarthritis Patricia Moore Assignment
Difficulty
Day 2 While I could go about my daily routine, each task took significantly longer to complete. In order to compensate for the loss of dexterity in my hands and ability to firmly grip small objects, I had to resort to creative means to accomplish things, frequently using my chin, teeth or the crook of my arm as a “third� limb.
Day 1 There were very few changes in my daily activities. Although I was clumsier than usual, I maintained my fine motor skills and could manipulate small objects.
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Time
Beayue Louie
Empathy Study II Safe Dark Place
The easiest part was the music because you could hear it automatically. Sound is sound. You don’t have to interpret what other people are trying to tell you.
interpretation
Designing in the Dark
limited sensitivity
cold
challenges
object heights unfamiliarity In order to explore the importance of non-visual cues, students took turns wearing a blindfold to navigate a sparsely furnished room to place a cookie and a gift at a friend’s favourite sitting place. This exercise was based on IDEO’s Helsinki workshop.
rope table
Sound
VISUALLY IMPAIRED PERSON
Beayue Caila
chair
laptop Caila had to use a loose rope to travel around a tight corner. This task was difficult as one of her hands was occupied and my use of the word “string” influenced her expectations.
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Smell
Because of her cold, Caila could not smell the mugs of tea until she was directly over it.
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tea shelf
yoga mat
desk
chair
Touch: Feet
Caila used the different textures of the rug, yoga mat and hardwood floor as a guide. Limited sensitivity in her left foot, however, contributed to disorientation when she had to change directions.
rug
couch
Following the sound of instrumental music, Caila was able to find the desk quickly and confidently.
Touch: Hand ETHNOGRAPHER
air unit
chair
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dining table
chair chair
It would be difficult not to know a space at all or know what’s in it because you don’t know what to expect. Beayue Louie
Empathy Study II Non-Visual Cues Designing in the Dark
Identification
For my complex object, I choose a tea strainer for loose tea leaves as it is an item that comes in several different variations that a visually-impaired person might use in their daily life. This variation is a spoon strainer.
Oh, it’s a tea strainer! Working in pairs, each student provided a complex object for their blindfolded partner to identify using non-visual learning strategies.
I’m a tea drinker, so the mesh ball was a dead giveaway. If I wasn’t, I would probably need to think about what it was.
Design
The tea strainer is relatively intuitive to use. By holding the handle between two fingers or in the palm of your hand, you can lightly squeeze the handle to open the cage for the tea leaves. The wide rims on both sides of the tea leaves cage also creates a clacking sound, which provides auditory feedback to the user to indicate when the tea strainer is closed.
The object, however, turned out not to be complex enough as Caila was able to correctly identify it immediately. This was largely due to the fact that she is a tea drinker herself and owns a similar version.
The handle of the tea strainer is made out of a single metal rod. The tension of the rod, along with a three-hinged joint, keeps the cage for the tea leaves closed. The simple mirrored shape of the handle allows the user to open the tea strainer from either side.
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FRONT VIEW
SIDE VIEW
Beayue Louie
Precedent Research GearWrench X-BEAM Ratcheting Wrench
Natural Functionality
The handle design allows the user to bear down on the flat side of the wrench rather than the thin edge, which reduces hand stress and fatigue.
Safety & Stability The GearWrench X-BEAM Ratcheting Wrench series features a twisted, thicker tapered handle that offsets the working ends of the wrench by 90 degrees. This increases the surface contact area by up to 500% over traditional wrenches.
The pressure of the handle is diffused into the user’s palm rather than across the palm, which provides more leverage and control.
Enabling
The handle shaft is 25% longer than standard wrenches, which increases torque, thereby requiring less force to loosen or tighten a bolt.
Elegant & Discrete
The concept is simple, yet innovative and intuitive. The aesthetic beauty of the design elevates this wrench from an ergonomic tool to one coveted by all users.
Range of Motion
The box end features a ratcheting mechanism that enables a user to move a fastener with as little as a 5 degree rotation, rather than the 30 degrees required by a traditional wrench. This makes repetitive tasks easier and more efficient.
Auditory Feedback
The ratcheting mechanism provides an auditory click when rotated in the correct direction, notifying when the fastener is being moved.
Universality & Usability
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The wrench is designed to be used by individuals of various strengths and hand dexterity. The GearWrench X-BEAM wrench line is the first hand tool to receive the American Arthritis Foundation’s Ease-of-Use Commendation.
Beayue Louie
Disability Research Osteoarthritis
Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic health conditions in Canada. It is a major cause of morbidity and is the leading cause of pain, physical disability and health care utilization in Canada. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis.
Definition
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs when the cartilage around a joint, the material covering and protecting the ends of bones, begins to deteriorate. As the cartilage breaks down, the ends of bones thicken and the joint may lose its normal shape.
Bone Bone ends rub together
Joint capsule
Over 10% of Canadian adults have osteoarthritis. It is the leading cause of disability in Canada among women and second among men. More Canadians have died from arthritis and related conditions than from melanoma, asthma or HIV/AIDS.
Possible risk factors for osteoarthritis are: • previous joint injury • old age • joint alignment • heredity • obesity • muscle weakness
Affected Areas
IMPACT
Although arthritis is frequently associated with the elderly, nearly 3 of every 5 people affected by arthritis are under the age of 65. It is estimated that arthritis costs the Canadian economy more than $33 billion each year.
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Risk Factors
Thinned cartilage
The most commonly affected areas are:
Cartilage
HEALTHY JOINT
Symptoms
The symptoms of arthritis vary, but commonly include: • pain • tenderness • swelling • stiffness in or around the • joints This can lead to: • chronic pain • fatigue • inability to concentrate • joint damage • difficulty in performing • everyday activities • disability
OSTEOARTHRITIC JOINT
• • • • • •
fingers hands spine hips knees feet
Diagnosis
Osteoarthritis can strike anyone at anytime, regardless of age, physical condition or ethnic background. It is brought on by previous joint injury or other factors. There is no known cure for osteoarthritis. Although an individual may experience exacerbations and remissions, once started, arthritis is for life. Treatments exist only to decrease pain and improve joint mobility. In severe cases, the entire joint, such as the hip or knee, may need to be replaced through surgery.
Resources
The following organizations offer information on arthritis: • Public Health Agency of • Canada • www.phac-aspc.gc.ca • Arthritis Research Centre of • Canada • arthritisresearch.ca • The Arthritis • Society • arthritis.ca
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Finding a Co-Creator Marianne Denes
Marianne Denes is a volunteer at the Mary Pack Arthritis Centre, which provides both inpatient and outpatient treatment services for thousands of children and adults living with arthritis in British Columbia. Such services include diagnosis and assessments, rehabilitation treatment, medication monitoring classes, biologic infusions, counselling, education programs and outreach services.
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The Search
Following the Empathy Study I: Patricia Moore Assignment in which I simulated having osteoarthritis over a three-day period, I became extremely cognizant of how dependent I was on my hands, not only for daily activities and ablutions, but my professional life as well. Based on this experience, I was motivated to delve deeper into the issue of arthritis.
Who is Marianne?
This first meeting was extremely successful as it provided a strong impression of who Marianne is as a person. • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
I contacted the Mary Park Arthritis Centre, a local rehabilitative and physical therapy service provider of the British Columbia division of The Arthritis Society, and met with the Health Education & Learning Centre Coordinator to conduct research and discuss the possibility of collaborating with a co-creator.
Introductory Interview
I met with Marianne, one of the Centre’s volunteers, who graciously agreed to participate as my co-creator for this project. As this was our first meeting, I elected to keep our interview relatively unstructured and informal in order to better acquaint ourselves with each other.
46 years old needle craft artist introvert lives with her mother does not like change homebody intellectually curious extremely literary enjoys crosswords and sudoku confident in her opinions fan of classic movies and television shows music lover
How is Marianne Affected?
Marianne has psoriatic arthritis and Ménière’s disease. Psoriatic Arthritis Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the immune system attacks a person’s joints, resulting in inflammation, warmth, swelling and pain. It can spread to other joints and, if not treated and controlled properly, can cause irreversible damage.
Psoriatic Arthritis Marianne’s psoriatic arthritis has resulted in fused joints in both her hands. She has no movement in her right wrist and little movement in her right fingers or left wrist. While she continues to enjoy better movement in her left fingers, she is right-handed.
Ménière’s Disease Ménière’s disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes spontaneous episodes of dizziness (vertigo), nausea, fluctuating hearing loss, ringing (tinnitus) and pressure or a feeling of fullness in the ear. Marianne experiences constant ringing in her right ear, which results in a lack of ability to hear out of that ear. This leaves her feeling “closed in” and vulnerable.
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Portrait of a Co-Creator
I’m not an outgoing person. I never have been.
Marianne Denes Observations
In her own words, Marianne leads a very sheltered life. She lives at home with her mother and spends most of her free time working on her felt crafts while listening to music, reading books, watching movies and doing crossword and sudoku puzzles.
Although she is not formally educated, Marianne is articulate and very well-read. She is, by nature, an introvert, but she has a strong sense of who she is and is confident in expressing her opinions to strangers.
Difficulties I still like paper. The look of a book, the feel of a book ... They talk to you.
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As she lives on her disability income, her books, movies and television shows are her gateway to the world. They allow her to explore different lives from the comfort and safety of her home.
That’s the one thing I envy - people who can wear earrings. When you watch a movie and a woman is putting her earrings in, it drives me nuts.
Activities that Marianne finds difficult generally involve: • fine motor control • non-neutral wrist angles • finger and wrist strength • twisting motions • multi-finger grip • wide hand span • heavy objects • temperature and humidity • changes Although Marianne is able to cope with her arthritis and finds contentment in many things, she mourns the fact that her condition robs her of the ability to play up her femininity with adornments, similar to how her beloved literary and cinematic characters would.
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Cultural Probe The Kit
A cultural probe, also known as a diary study, is a method of gathering information about people and the activities they engage in. Unlike direct observation, this technique allows users to self-report, which minimizes the amount of influence a designer has on the user’s responses. The information gathered from a cultural probe is particularly helpful in the early stages of the design process.
Customization
In order to put Marianne at ease and make the co-creation experience enjoyable, I created a cultural probe that focused on the concept of narratives in order to reflect her interest in books, classic movies and music. The probe was also designed to take into account Marianne’s physical dexterity.
Contents • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
a colour swatch book a set of invitations a large personalized journal (book format) a small personalized journal (notebook format) a “Choose Your Own Adventure” booklet a strip of movie tickets a SD memory card (digital camera) a permanent ink pen a ballpoint pen an invisible tape dispenser
Elastic Snaps The snaps make the envelope easy to open and close with either hand and do not require fine dexterity.
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The Packaging
The cultural probe was packaged in a lightweight, plastic envelope folder in Marianne’s favourite colour, purple. This allowed for easy transport and protected the contents of the kit from the elements.
Folder Format The folder format allows for easy access to all the contents without requiring the user to pull the contents out (as in a traditional envelope).
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Cultural Probe The Activities The Invitations
Marianne was asked to imagine that she was hosting a dinner party. She was given five invitations on which to write whom she would invite and why they were invited. She was allowed to invite anyone, living or dead, real or fictional.
The
The invitations were designed in black and white with an Art Deco motif to mimic the feeling of the classic “Golden Age” Hollywood movies that she is fond of.
The Journal
Each day, Marianne chose one or two questions from a small booklet to answer in her journal.
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The booklet was bound with hole reinforcement stickers so the pages could be easily fanned and torn out. Additionally, as Marianne possesses little movement in her dominate hand, two journal sizes were included to provide stylistic and logistic options.
The questions were written to match the tone of the “Choose Your Own Adventure” series, which was popular when Marianne was a preteen. This helped evoke a sense of whimsy and encouraged Marianne to regard the exercise as a personal narrative rather than a series of detached, intrusive inquiries.
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Cultural Probe The Activities
The Movie Tickets
Building on the premise that a film studio is making a movie about Marianne’s life, Marianne was prompted to take a series of photographs of various objects and areas in her home. By phrasing the request as research for set and prop design, the activity places Marianne in the role of the ethnographer rather than that of the mere movie subject. She gets to choose how her home will be represented and how much of it the audience gets to see.
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The Film Tickets
A SD card for a digital camera was included in the kit. I opted to provide a SD card as oppose to a disposable camera as Marianne would likely be more familiar with and comfortable using her own camera. Most disposable cameras are difficult for users with limited hand mobility to use.
The Swatch Book
Each day, Marianne chose a colour that appealed to her. On that page, she was asked to write down either a quote from a book, a song lyric or a line from a movie that she liked. The purpose of this activity was to provide a general sense of the colours she liked, the books, songs and movies she enjoyed and serve as a open source of inspiration for this project. The instructions were mounted vertically so Marianne could choose to use the swatches as a right-handed or left-handed book.
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Cultural Probe Findings
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
You walk into a beautiful concert hall. Someone is playing the soundtrack to your life! Name five songs that are on it.
I discovered that Marianne’s fondness for narrative mediums stems predominately from a love of characters, real and fictional, perfect and imperfect, rather than a love of plot lines. She has very eclectic tastes and appreciates the richness found in both the simple and the complex.
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
A wizard cast a spell on you, turning you into your favourite movie character. Who are you? What movie are you in? What scene are you in?
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
You’re moving to a far away land! You can only bring five books with you. Which ones do you choose? Why?
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
A wizard casts a spell, turning you into your favourite literary character.
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Who are you? What book are you in? What scene are you in?
Beayue Louie
Co-Creation Cultural Probe Findings
Marianne is a connoisseur of life. Although her options have been limited by her disability, her choices are deliberate. She values family and the intangible things in life that can only be experienced, not possessed.
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
You found a genie in a lamp! What three wishes do you ask for? Why?
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
You found a time machine that lets you relive a memory! What is your favourite memory?
The Fantastical Tale of a Vancouver Heroine By Marianne v. denes
You found the secret to happiness!
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What was fascinating about the results of the cultural probe, was not just Marianne’s answers themselves, but her selection of which activities and questions she chose to complete.
What makes you happy?
Beayue Louie
Visual Design Brief Everybody Has a Story
Objective
In addition to their functional qualities, objects should help people tell the story of who they are and what they value.
Criteria Must Have • engage us • be beautiful • help improve our lives
Should Have • embody our values • express who we are • tell its own story
Nice to Have • show function through form • age well • evoke emotion
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Beayue Louie
Concept Ideation Concept No. 1
Adaptive Ear Clip Magnetic or spring-mounted back to hold the clip closed (neutral state)
Accommodates multiple earring types Lever allows for easy removal
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The clip allows an individual to wear almost any earring of their choice. It resembles a traditional earring, but brings the fine motor skills of putting on an earring down to hand level and within their line of sight. A larger “pierced hole� also makes it easier to thread the earring through.
Beayue Louie
Concept Ideation Concept No. 2
Adaptive Ear Cuff Does not require pinching motion to secure the cuff and supports weight of the earring without disturbing the ear canal
Thin fin allows cuff to be put on with reachers
Can be decorative in form (worn alone or with an earring)
Cuff can be removed with one finger
Accommodates multiple earring types
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The clip allows an individual to wear almost any earring of their choice. It brings the fine motor skills of putting on an earring down to hand level and within their line of sight. No pinching motion is required to put it on. A larger “pierced hole� also makes it easier to thread the earring through.
Beayue Louie
Concept Ideation Concept No. 3
Book Holder Tripod Attachment
A universal 1/4� - 20 TPI (threads per inch) mounting hole can accommodate any tripod
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The attachment allows individuals to read books with the aid of a book holder in a multitude of settings, such as on a couch, bed or in the yard, rather than just at a table. It takes advantage of the existing tripod market, which has already developed full-scale, mini, rugged, lightweight, bendable and magnetic variations.
Beayue Louie
Concept Ideation Concept No. 4
“Off-the-Cuff� Bracelet
Magnetic layer keeps cuff closed (neutral state)
Non-slip layer
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The bracelet allows individuals to open car doors, cabinets or drawers using the strength of their forearm rather than their fingers. As it can be worn as a normal bracelet, it is discrete and readily accessible when needed.
Beayue Louie
Concept Ideation Concept No. 5
Gripping Memento
Material-Driven Wild Card
?
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Many individuals with arthritis use small swatches of rubber shelf liner to open containers and manipulate objects. Could a tailored form, made from the same material, elevate the material into a more convenient, multipurpose and coveted object?
Beayue Louie
Phase 1 Prototyping Ideation Sketches “Off the Cuff” Bracelet
Solid Part A single part that incorporates both the bracelet and hook provides greater strength.
Issues
1. In order to use the “Off the Cuff” as an assistive device, the hinge between the bracelet and the handle hook must be strong enough to bear significant force. 2. The bracelet circumference must be large enough to fit an arthritic hand through comfortably. 3. The band must be strong and stable enough to transfer force to the forearm when in use. 4. The user must be able to prevent the bracelet from spinning on their forearm.
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Magnetic Snap Easy to open with one finger. Leverage Arm Folds closed to keep the hook hidden when not in use. Shaped Hinge Will stop at a certain point.
Leverage Arm Folds opens to provide stabilization and control over the hook. Fulcrum Bracelet serves as the lever’s fulcrum.
Beayue Louie
Phase 1 Prototyping Form “Off the Cuff� Bracelet
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A symmetrical form would allow the bracelet to pivot easily on the forearm, adjusting to different situations.
Beayue Louie
Phase 1 Prototyping Lever Mechanism & Stress Points “Off the Cuff� Bracelet
Handle Hook
Stress Point
Stress Point
Leverage Arm
Change of Direction Handle Hook
Leverage Arm
Stress Point
Leverage Arm
Adjustable
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Stress Point
During prototype consultations with several industry professionals, many individuals expressed greater interest in the ear clip concept. As such, I elected to switch my project focus after this initial round of prototyping.
Handle Hook
Stress Point
Handle Hook Adjustable
Beayue Louie
Market Research Precedents Adaptive Ear Clip
Currently, there are few assistive-type products for earrings in the market:
Although these products provide some general issues involved with pierced earrings for both individuals with arthritis and those without, none address the body mobility challenges associated with the act of threading or securing an earring.
Issue No pierced hole.
Fashion Products
1. clip-on earring converters; 2. magnetic earrings;
Assistive Products
Issue Small earring back.
3. California convertible hoops; 4. Andralok earrings; and 5. Little Fingers.
Issue No pierced hole.
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Issue No pierced hole.
Issue Small earring back.
Beayue Louie
Phase 2 Prototyping Ideation Sketches Adaptive Ear Clip
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Beayue Louie
Phase 2 Prototyping Ideation Sketches
Interchangeable Front Easy to change clip’s appearance to compliment earrings.
Adaptive Ear Clip
Magnet or Spring Back Holds ear clip securely on earlobe. Earring Loop Thread earring through.
Issues
1. In order to give the user a full range of options, the ear clip must accommodate multiple earring types (stud, hoop, French wire, threader, hinged snap-back, etc.) securely. 2. The ear clip must be adaptive to the wearer’s aesthetic needs.
Stud Wear basic stud on a regular basis.
Earring Loop Thread earring through.
3. The ear clip must be small enough to not overwhelm the aesthetic of the earring, but large enough for an arthritic hand to hold and use comfortably. 4. The ear clip must be symmetrical so it can be used by either hand. 5. The ear clip must be easy to put on and remove with one hand.
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Interchangeable Front Easy to change clip’s appearance to compliment earrings.
Lever Separates magnet from stud.
Magnet Snaps to clip back. Hook Stabilizes clip back on thumb.
Dimple Stabilizes clip front between two fingers.
Earring Clearance Room for studs and large hoops.
Earring Loop Thread earring through.
Beayue Louie
Phase 2 Prototyping Form Adaptive Ear Clip
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Beayue Louie
Phase 2 Prototyping Wearability Adaptive Ear Clip
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Beayue Louie
Concept Development Research Narratives
Culture Narratives appeal to us because they allow us to explore the world: • as it was; • as it is; • as it will be; and • as we imagine it to be. While they can provide us with an escape from our own lives, they also provides us with a powerful tool for reflection and growth.
Romance
Drama Opinions
History Mystery
Adventure Exploration
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Beayue Louie
Concept Development Research Characters & Personas
We think in terms of narrative structure. It is the method by which we explain things, understand and engage with each other. We use it to communicate information about ourselves to the people around us. Each of us is the protagonist of our own story. The characters that we read about, listen to and watch allow us to explore different facets of our own personality and those of others.
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Beayue Louie
Concept Development Research Identity
i •den •ti •ty The condition of being a person and the process by which we become a person.
Looking-Glass Self
Coined in 1902 by Charles Horton Cooley, the theory of the “looking-glass self” theory posits that a person’s self-image is shaped by their understanding of society’s perceptions of them. In essence, we learn to see ourselves as others do through symbolic interactionism.
Self-Expression
The ability to express one’s self , through traits, values, interests and even appearance, is critical to one’s self-concept.
The theory is based on three main components: 1. One imagines how they appear to others.
Fashion, therefore, is about more than just consumerism and conformity. It is a means by which we express who we are and who we wish to be. We use clothing and accessories to convey different aspects of ourselves.
2. One imagines the judgment that others may be making regarding that appearance. 3. One develops a self-image via their reflection, namely, by acceding to or rebelling against the judgment or critique of others.
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> Beayue Louie
Concept Development Research Accessories
Different earring styles have different physical and aesthetic requirements. In order to be multipurpose, the ear clip will need to be simple and intuitive.
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Beayue Louie
Concept Development Ergonomics The Problem
Body Mobility Requirements Putting on an earring the conventional way demands:
Reflected Image & Peripheral Vision
&
To put on an earring, a person must tilt their head down, in the opposite direction of their torso, and reach back, above their shoulders, with one hand to support their earlobe by holding it between their index finger and thumb or bracing it with an earring back. With their other hand, they must reach across their chest and above their shoulders to thread the earring through a small pierced hole.
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This task is made more difficult by the fact that a person cannot see his or her own ear. They must do it â&#x20AC;&#x153;blindlyâ&#x20AC;? or with the aid of a mirror, which only provides a partially obstructed, mirrored image through their peripheral vision.
&
Across Body & Over Shoulder
Two-Handed
Twisted Torso
Small Contact Surface
Beayue Louie
Concept Development Ergonomics The Solution
Play By Ear breaks down the act of putting on an earring into two steps:
1. threading the earring
1. through the clip;
In the first step, he act of threading an earring through a tiny “pierced” hole is placed within the person’s preferred line of sight, 10º - 40º below their horizontal sight line. This provides for greater hand-eye coordination, as the user is able to see their actual hand movements directly in front of them as oppose to a reflected image of their hand movements through their peripheral vision. The clip also lowers the majority of the task down to hand level where a person has greater control and precision over their movements, as oppose to across their body and above their shoulders.
2. earlobe.
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Putting on an earring with a Play By Ear clip allows:
Central Vision
Hand-Level
One-Handed
and
2. putting the clip on the
Body Mobility Requirements
Once the earring is secured to the clip, the user can then attach the clip onto the earlobe by feel or with the aid of a mirror. This second step can be carried out with one hand, eliminating the need for the user to reach across their body or above their shoulders for long periods.
Neutral Torso
Large Contact Surface
Beayue Louie
Phase 3 Prototyping Form
Magnet Clips
Tension Clips
Adaptive Ear Clip
To create multiple working prototypes with minute variations while maintaining control over the shape, I elected to use: • steel wire;
FRONT
• 1/4” x 1/10” circular rareearth magnets (2.5 lb. strength); • 3/8” x 1/4” zinc-plated steel magnet cups; and • Fimo modeling clay.
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BACK
Beayue Louie
Phase 3 Prototyping Body Motion Studies Adaptive Ear Clip
Variations in sizes and shapes enabled me to evaluate the different hand motions required to hold, balance and fasten the prototypes.
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Beayue Louie
Phase 3 Prototyping Assembly & Interchangeability Adaptive Ear Clip
By using magnets, the front and back pieces can be interchanged, allowing for potential form customization to suit the particulars of each userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disability. Steel emblems embedded on the front of each clip also give users the option of changing the clipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s appearance easily with magnetic covers (as represented by the crystal attachment).
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Beayue Louie
Concept Proposal Play By Ear
Play By Ear is an adaptive ear clip that can be worn as a decorative accessory on the earlobe. It is an ergonomic tool for individuals with arthritis or difficulties with hand dexterity that simplifies the act of putting on and taking off an earring. It can be worn alone or with a wide variety of existing earring styles such as studs, hoops, drops or threaders.
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Enabling individuals with arthritis to wear earrings is not merely about accessorizing, but about restoring an avenue of self-expression that might otherwise be denied to people by their arthritis. People are beautiful. Not because of or in spite of a disability. They just are. They wear their life experience, which gives them complexity, character and depth.
The choice to don adornments is theirs. Whether they do so to convey their mood, to complete an outfit, to play up a trend, for sentimental reasons or to feel confident is irrelevant. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about the freedom of choice and full expression. Arthritis should not have a say in the matter.
Beayue Louie
User Trial Set-Up Methods
The Objective
To determine whether an individual with arthritis could use an ear clip attachment to wear an earring without assistance.
The Scenario
The Measures
1. a free learning session; The user was asked to verbalize how she thought each prototype was used.
User Trial For each prototype, the following measures were recorded until the user successfully completed or abandoned the task:
The user trial consisted of three stages:
A user trial was held at the Mary Pack Arthritis Centre on March 21, 2013. Three different Play By Ear prototypes were evaluated in a simulated environment.
1. the aggregate time it took
2. a defined tasks session; and The user evaluated each prototype in a series of three tasks.
2. the number of errors made 3. the type of errors made; and
3. a debrief interview. A brief discussion was held to follow up on any issues or questions that arose during the course of the trial.
4. the number of attempts made.
The Defined Tasks The user evaluated each prototype by:
Performance Measures Objective Measure
Questionnaire The user was asked to rate:
The Measures
1. Thread an earring onto the ear clip
The user evaluated each prototype by:
2. Put the ear clip on the earlobe
1. Thread an earring onto the ear clip
3. Remove the ear clip
2. Put the ear clip on the earlobe 3. Remove the ear clip
1. how easy each ear clip was to use; 2. how comfortable each ear clip was to wear; 3. how visually appealing each ear clip was; and 4. how satisfied the user was with each ear clip
Subjective Measures
The user was also asked to indicate how important the following factors were to her:
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• • • • • •
ability to wear earrings; comfort; discretion; ease of use; affordability; and ability to accommodate all earring types.
Beayue Louie
Set-Up The Prototypes
While each ear clip was designed to break down the act of putting on an earring into two separate tasks, the ear clips differed in shape and mobility requirements.
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Ear Clip No. 3 Ear Clip No. 2 Ear Clip No. 1
User Trial Hook Prototype
The user holds the back piece of the “Hook” prototype by hanging it lengthwise off their thumb, along the distal phalange (upper segment) or the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP joint or upper knuckle). The front piece is held between the index and middle fingers around the medial phalanges (middle segments) or DIP joints, similar as to how one would hold a cigarette. When the user brings their thumb and fingers together, magnets will secure the ear clip on their earlobe.
Pinch Grip Prototype
The user holds the “Pinch Grip” prototype between their thumb and index or middle fingers. The clip will open when the user pinches their thumb and fingers together, and will close when the clip is released, using tension to secure the clip on their earlobe.
Cup Prototype
The user holds the back piece of the “Cup” prototype by hanging it vertically off the tip of their thumb. Similar to the Hook prototype, the front piece is held between the index and middle fingers around the medial phalanges or DIP joints. When the user brings their thumb and fingers together, magnets will secure the ear clip on their earlobe.
Beayue Louie
User Trial Data Results
2. put on the ear clip (4 attempts in 74.0 seconds); and 3. remove the ear clip (1 attempt in 2.9 seconds).
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Abandoned Task
1. thread the earring onto the ear clip (1 attempt in 6.3 seconds);
Number of Attempts Made
Findings
5 4 3
Abandoned Task
How Many Attempts are Made to Complete the Task?
Using the Hook prototype, the user was able to successfully:
Step 1: Threading Earring on to Ear Clip Step 2: Putting on Ear Clip
2 1 0 Hook
Pinch Grip
Cup
Step 3: Removing Ear Clip
Prototype Style
How Long Does It Take to Use an Ear Clip to Wear an Earring? Abandoned Task
70.0
60.0
Abandoned Task
Time (seconds)
50.0
40.0
30.0
Step 1: Threading Earring on to Ear Clip Step 2: Putting on Ear Clip Step 3: Removing Ear Clip
20.0
10.0
0.0 Hook
Pinch Grip Prototype Style
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Cup
For each prototype, the task of threading the earring onto the ear clip was accomplished quickly and in a single attempt. As hypothesized, by bringing this act down to hand level, within the user’s preferred line of sight, the user had greater control over her movements.
Beayue Louie
User Trial Data Results
Which Ear Clip is Easiest to Use? 8 7 Number of Errors Made
Findings
For the task of putting on the ear clip, the Hook prototype resulted in the least amount of errors among the three styles. The user was unable to complete the task using either the Pinch Grip and Cup prototypes due to difficulties reaching the earlobe with the ear clip and holding onto the ear clip, respectively.
6 5
Abandoned task
4
Can't open clip
3
Difficult/painful to reach
2
Dropped clip Incorrect use
1 0 Hook
Pinch Grip
Cup
Prototype Style
Level of Preference
Which Ear Clip Do You Prefer? 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
Prototype Evaluation Ear clip is easy to use. 1
Hook
Pinch Grip
Cup 2
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of my design process, was of particular interest as several individuals, myself included, incorrectly predicted that the Pinch Grip prototype would fare best in the user trial.
Level of Agreement
Prototype Style
Both the user’s answers to the questionnaire and my observations during the user trial collaborated the findings of the performance and objective measures. Across the board, the user favoured the Hook prototype considerably over the Pinch Grip and Cup prototypes. This outcome, which will guide the next stage
Ear clip is Ear clip is I am satisfied comfortable visually with the to wear. appealing to me. ear clip.
Ear clip is comfortable Ear clip is easy to use. to wear. 3
Ear clip is visually appealing to me.
I am satisfied with the ear clip.
Hook Pinch Grip Cup
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Beayue Louie
Findings Observations
Ear Clip No. 1
User Trial Hook Prototype
The Hook prototype was successful for several reasons: 1. the back piece of the ear clip hooked securely over the thumb, which allowed the user to move her hand around freely; 2. the earring threaded onto the back piece of the ear clip, which allowed for better weight distribution and control than the front piece; 3. the magnets assumed the responsibility of fastening the ear clip to the earlobe, which allowed the user to concentrate solely on positioning the ear clip; and
Ear Clip No. 2
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Pinch Grip Prototype
Ear Clip No. 3
4. the user could anchor her thumb behind her earlobe and against her skull to stabilize and orient her hand, thereby overcoming reduced tactile and orientation sensitivity in her hands and arms as a result of arthritic inflammation and chronic pain.
Cup Prototype
The user had considerable difficulty using the Pinch Grip prototype. As her hand was free-floating, providing no spatial reference point, she would overshoot her earlobe whenever she raised her arm. Furthermore, although this particular user does not suffer from ulnar deviation in her fingers, it is commonly found among individuals with arthritis. As such, the pinching motion needed to operate this ear clip could be problematic as it would require a person to grasp something in the direction of their deformity.
The user was required to hold her hand vertically in order to balance the Cup prototype on the tip of her thumb. This restricted how she could move, resulting in rough movements and discomfort. Furthermore, as the earring threaded onto the front piece of the ear clip, the additional bulk affected the distribution of weight on the hand and obstructed the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fingers. It also added the unnecessary complication of orienting the front piece to hang correctly on the ear.
Beayue Louie
User Trial Does the Method Used to Put on the Ear Clip Affect SDoes uccess? Does the Method Used to Put the Method Used to Put Hook P rototype on the Ear Clip Affect Success? on the Ear Clip Affect Success?
Observations
90.0
70.0 Time (seconds)
5 4 Number of Attempts Made
80.0
60.0 50.0 40.0 30.0
Hook Prototype
4 Number of Attempts Made
100.0
Abandoned Task
Hook Prototype 5
3
2
1
20.0
2
1
10.0
0 Two-‐Handed
0.0 Two-‐Handed
One-‐Handed
Method Used
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3
Abandoned Task
Findings
One-‐Handed 0 Method Used Two-‐Handed
One-‐Handed
Method Used
Methodology
Methodology
Two-Handed Regardless of a prototype’s form, educating and persuading a person to use a product a certain way also plays a critical role in designing solutions. During the evaluation of the Hook prototype, the user initially attempted to put the ear clip on with two hands, similar to how one would a traditional post earring. Using this conventional method, the user became frustrated and eventually abandoned the task.
One-Handed After the user was shown how to properly hold the front and back pieces of the ear clip in one hand and instructed how to think about her actions in distinct movements, the user was able to successfully complete the task using the same prototype. This incident illustrates the importance of providing clear and simple instructions when introducing a new product.
Beayue Louie
User Trial Findings Recommendations
Based on the findings of the user trial, I elected to focus on the following elements in the next phases of prototyping: • a back-loading, magnetic ear clip with a handle, similar to the Hook prototype, that:
o does not require a user to twist their head o and torso in opposite directions;
o does not require a user to reach across o their body; and
o minimizes the amount of time a user is o required to lift their hands above their o shoulders;
• a higher magnet placement on the back piece of the ear clip, closer to the pad of the thumb, making the ear clip front and back easier to align;
What Characteristics Would You Like to See in Your Ideal Ear Clip? Subtle
Able to Adapt to All Earring Types
Small • a more pronounced concave groove on the circumference of the ear clip front, making the piece easier to hold securely between the user’s fingers; and
Easy to Hold
Lightweight
Affordable
-‐100% -‐80% -‐60% -‐40% -‐20%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80% 100%
Level of Preference
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• a potential detachable handle system, reducing the size of the ear clip when worn.
Beayue Louie
Phase 4 Prototyping
To avoid narrowing my design mindset, I created a few wild card prototypes that allowed me to expand on the results of the user trial.
OPENED
Adaptive Ear Clip
Because the”Hinge” prototype is one connected product, the user does not have to worry about misplaced parts. The motion required to secure the Hinge may be problematic, however, for individuals with arthritis in their hands. Particularly individuals with ulnar deviations as it requires the user to vertically slide the index finger and thumb together.
CLOSED
Wild Card Ideation
Hinge Prototype
Cuff Prototype The “Cuff” prototype, which takes advantage of the ear’s flexible cartilage to stay secure, has the benefit of no moving or working parts. The Cuff, however, may also result in the “overshoot” issue that occurred during the user trial due to limited spatial awareness. It may also obstruct glasses and hearing aids.
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Beayue Louie
Phase 5 Prototyping Detachable Handle Adaptive Ear Clip
Detachable Handle
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Flexible Prongs
Detachable Handles Pro
Clip Earring Back Holder
Smaller clip. Lighter and more discrete. Can be used to put on both the clip front and back.
Clip Steel Interchangeable Front Emblem Cover
Detachable Handle
.
Con Additional moving parts adds unnecessary complexity.
Beayue Louie
Phase 5 Prototyping Attached Handle Adaptive Ear Clip
Clip Back
Earring Holder
Clip Steel Interchangeable Front Emblem Cover
Condensed Handle
Wire Handle
Con Easier to slide off thumb.
Con Uneven weight distribution, especially with an earring attached.
Pro Smaller and more discrete.
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Detachable Handle
Pro
More delicate.
Deeper Groove Pro
Easier to hold.
Beayue Louie
Phase 5 Prototyping Attached Handle Adaptive Ear Clip
Materials
I used 3D CAD software to create life-sized models of the prototypes in order to show how delicate and discrete the clips could be. Due to their minuscule size, however, two mainstream 3D printers were unable to fabricate the clips correctly. Ideally, the clips will need to be manufactured by a specialty 3D printer or through goldsmithing methods.
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Beayue Louie
Final Design Concept Drawings Short Hook
Wider Hook
Places the magnet at the user’s thumb pad, ensuring a more natural, closing motion.
Stabilizes the clip on the user’s thumb more securely.
Due to the limitations of Fimo and student financial and time constraints, the prototypes do not convey all the proposed features of the final design. Ideally, the clip will be made of stronger, thinner, lighter and more attractive material, typically used in jewelry design.
Weighted Tail
Counterbalance the weight of the magnet and earring.
Earring Holder
Accommodates existing earring styles, providing the user a full spectrum of choice.
Steel Emblem
Tapered Tail
Hook is less noticeable when worn.
Concave Groove
Provides a natural resting place for the user’s fingers.
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Removable Magnet
Magnet strength can be changed to suit the user’s preference and earring weight.
Covers can be attached to change the clip’s appearance.
Magnet Cup
Allows magnets to be swapped by the user and provides manufacturing efficiencies.
Beayue Louie
Final Design Clip Covers Materials
Using the steel emblem embedded on the front of each clip, magnetic covers allow the user to change the appearance of the clip to complement their earrings, providing an additional avenue for self-expression.
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Currently, these clip covers are made of Fimo polymer clay for prototyping purposes. The final product will be made from more conventional jewelry materials such as silver, gold, surgical stainless steel and plastic. This will allow the covers to be thinner, lighter, more durable and hypoallergenic.
Beayue Louie
Final Design Finished Prototype
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Beayue Louie
Play By Ear Adaptive Ear Clips
Beayue Louie a 2013 student project info@beayue.com