PAOLO TORRES 2020 | Product Design | Portfolio
WORK EXPERIENCE
GREETINGS
ARC HARDWARE, BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA 12 WEEKS
My name is Paolo Torres, I hold a bachelor’s in Product and 3D Design attained from Griffith University. With an interest in consumer products and 3D visualisation I work closely within the design process, utilising the skills necessary to turn my ideas into a reality.
WOWME BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA 4 WEEKS
TUBULAR CHANDELIER
CORAL INHALER
AMEBA BARRIER
QUBE-CA
HANDHELD FAN
PASSIVE LIGHT
FLUX ARM CAST
ADAPT CHAIR
EASE VESSEL
DEMYSTIFY MASK
TUBULAR CHANDELIER BESPOKE LIGHTING DESIGN
2nd Year Bachelors (2018)
SITE CONTEXT
SITE DRAWINGS
Exhibition floorplan
Location: Bauhaus Archiv, Berlin Build Date: 1979 Space Notes: - 800 square metres of exhibition space - 400 square metres of permanent exhibition space - 6 showroom spaces Area: 8,629m2
Mid-section
VISUAL RESEARCH
DESIGN PROCESS
INITIAL CONCEPT
During the conceptualisation process I began exploring traditional light designs, implementing several Bauhaus aesthetic features and design philosophies in the process, giving a more bare, utilitarian appearance. This continued on to the refinement of my concept, as shown in the first sketch of my lighting design. Which then proceeded to visualising the light layer by layer to understand it’s composition.
FOCUSED EXPLORATION
DESIGN PROCESS
I then proceeded to prototype the light to fully understand it’s form and it’s composition, experimenting with both 3D printing and physical fabrication techniques. Ultimately I focused on 3D printing to produce the concept model, however I have also experimented with low-level metal works as shown below.
CAD MODEL MATERIAL EXPLORATION
3D PRINT
PERSPECTIVE
RENDERS TOP VIEW
AMEBA
ADAPTABLE MODULAR ENFORCED BARRIER AID DEFENSIVE DESIGN
2nd Years Bachelors 2018
RESEARCH PROCESS
HAY BALES
CATCH FENCING
CONCRETE BARRIER
+ Cheap, readily accessible - Can create skid hazard and flammable
+ Cheap and deforms around car when struck - Deforms too quickly, can trap cars, and posts can strike driver
+ Great for shallow impacts and absorbing momentum via. friction - Too solid and horrible for head on colllison
MEDIAN BARRIER
TIRE WALL
TECPRO BARRIER
+ Strong and can redirect along length, deforms slightly - Expensive and hard to repair - Only works in low speed areas
+Cheap readily accessible recycled material and adjustable - Takes up space (2 - 6 rows atleast to work)
+ Adaptable and modular, coming in two forms - Could be lifted off and bury cars, can be dragged off into road
MAIN CONCERNS FOR CRASH BARRIER DESIGN
1
Adaptability
3
Efficiency
5
Strength
2
Reusability
4
Safety
6
Cost
RESEARCH PROCESS THE PHYSICS OF A CAR DECELERRATING AT 100 KM/H
REACTION DISTANCE: 42 METRES
BRAKING DISTANCE: (DRY) 56 METRES
STOPPING DISTANCE: 122 METRES Common benchmark velocities for acceleration of vehicles 0 - 100 km/h = 0-27.78m/s => Acceleration of 100 km/h is 27.78m/s SHALLOW CRASHES
100km/h = 27.78m/s (end speed)2 = (start speed)2+ 2 × acc × dist 0 = 27.782 + 2 × acc × 56 0 = 771.7284 (112 × acc) acc = 771.7284/112 = 6.89 m/s2 (Force exerted if a car crashes into a barrier going from 100km/h to 0km/h in 0.002s) (Acceleration) a = ∆v / ∆t (change in velocity / time interval) a = 27.78m/s / 0.002 = 13,890m/s2 => 1416.39g worth of force
A common type of crash in highways and motorways, it’s when a vehicle collides with a solid object perpendicular to it’s surface
DESIGN PROCESS
During conceptualisation I focused primarily on the form of the barriers, and how it’s composition can help absorb energy and lengthen deceleration, implementing several physics-based properties into the design. Primarily how the façades can effect crash absorption
DESIGN PROCESS
After producing several designs I then narrowed down my choices for a modular barrier intended for shallow trajectory crashes, that could be deployed and arranged in long straights and shallow bends.
STRENGTH TEST
DESIGN PROCESS
CPCU
CRITICAL PATIENT CONTAINMENT UNIT DEFENSIVE DESIGN
2nd Years Bachelors 2018
RESEARCH PROCESS
MARKET ANALYSIS
The design for stretchers are static but have a functional purpose, usually they are made to transport patients in a safe and quick manner, with standard emergency situations/ procedures utilising the collapsible wheeled stretchers or scoop stretchers. In high or critical level emergencies (i.e. search and rescue, disaster response), Litter stretches are used to protect the casualty from obstacles or hazards; this is done through the litter’s raised sides and removable covers.
GOAL: DESIGN A STRETCHER UNIT THAT CAN SAFELY PROTECT PATIENTS FROM EXPOSURE IN IN HIGH RISK AND HAZARDOUS ENVIRONMENTS
PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS
DURABLE
MEDICALLY SAFE
RAPIDLY DEPLYOBALE
PORTABLE
WELL PROTECTED
DESIGN PROCESS
CAD ANALYSIS
The final design of the stretcher is as follows, abbreviated as CPCU (Critical, Patient, Containment, Unit), it is a large self-contained stretcher that protects the patient from outside elements and exposure, through a large HDPE plastic hood that can be open or closed. It can be carried through the side handles and features a window for patient observation. The main manufacturing method for the CPCU is rotomoulding.
FEATURES
Large, angular hood that protects patient from exposure
Can hold a patient up to 170cm+ in height
170CM HUMAN
2055MM
The CPCU is 205 CM in length with an angular form made to deflect falling debris
Several handles to allow multiple carriers grip in various positions
Port view to allow patient observation
SPECIFICATIONS
HANDHELD FAN CONSUMER PRODUCTS
2nd Years Bachelors 2018
DESIGN PROCESS
Handheld fans are one of the most common consumer items in the market, and this project was an exploration on that factor, as well as learning how to design with standardised components, mainly with a battery compartment, motor and switch. The chosen design was a simple battery powered fan that could be handheld and propped up on it’s own.
MOTOR
SWITCH
BATTERY HOLDER
FINAL DESIGN
FAN COMPONENTS
Med. torque motor
Back fan enclosure Fan blade Front fan enclosure Front fan axel
Back fan axel back handle enclosure
Slide switch Front handle enclosure Battery hatch Battery holder
FLUX ARM CAST MEDICAL CUSTOMISATION 2nd Years Bachelors 2018
BRIEF
CAST DESIGN SPECTRUM
Standard cast designs within the market are usually static, and are designed to sustain the patient’s limb in a fixed position during the recovery period. Though necessary it causes a few issues, mainly around ergonomics, breathability and restriction of movement (though that factor depends on the severity of the injury). This is usually attributed to the cast’s lack of customization, as the design is generalised for ease of application. So what if you can wear a cast that still heals and restricts movement in the right places and frees up the rest of your arm?
OBJECTIVE: DESIGN A FLEXIBLE, RIGID CAST THAT IS CUSTOMISED TO THE PATIENT’S REQUIREMENT WHILST STILL BEING MEDICALLY SAFE
RIGID
FLEXIBLE
Traits Breathability
Support
Movement restriction
Comfort
Padding
Adjustable
PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS
RIGID
OPTIMISED
FLEXIBLE
DURABLE
MEDICALLY SAFE
CAD PROCESS
FLUX ARM CAST
Forearm brace Generative ventilation holes (voronoi pattern)
Wrist restrictions Flexibility mesh
EASE VESSEL REDUCING WASTE YET MAXIMISING FORM SUSTAINABLE DESIGN
2nd Year Bachelors (2018)
CONTEXT:
IN 2016 ALONE
485 BILLION
PLASTIC BOTTLES WERE PRODUCED
TOTALLING UP TO
YET 91% OF THAT PLASTIC WAS NOT RECYCLED
335 MILLION METRIC TONNES
SOLUTION: CHANGE THE DESIGN OF THE PLASTIC BOTTLE TO BE MORE SUSTAINABLE AND MITIGATE ANY ISSUES CAUSED BY IT’S DESIGN DURING ITS END OF USE CYCLE
THE LIFE CYCLE OF A PLASTIC BOTTLE
2) MANUFACTURE THE PELLETS ARE THEN MOULDED IN THE SHAPE OF A BOTTLE AND FILLED WITH THE NECESSARY LIQUIDS. THIS ENTIRE PROCESS IS DONE IN A BOTTLING PLANT
1) MATERIAL EXTRACTION OIL IS EXTRACTED FROM THE EARTH, WHICH IS THEN PROCESSED IN ORDER TO PRODUCE PLASTIC PELLETS
5) END OF LIFE DEPENDING ON HOW IT WAS DISPOSED OF, BOTTLES COULD EITHER BE RE-GROUND AND RECYCLED FOR USE IN OTHER PRODUCTS, OR LEFT TO ROT IN LANDFILL AND LEACH CHEMICALS INTO THE SOIL.
4) USE IT IS AT THIS STAGE WHERE THE LIFE CYCLE OF A BOTTLE BECOMES PROBLEMATIC, WHEN PURCHASED BY A CONSUMER IT IS UP TO THEM ON HOW THE BOTTLE IS DISPOSED OF, EITHER PROPERLY RECYCLED OR ENDING UP IN LANDFILL
THERE IS OF COURSE THE POSSIBILITY OF USING SOME RECYCLED MATERIAL DURING THIS PROCESS
3) PACKAGE & TRANSPORT THE BOTTLES ARE THEN PACKED, SHIPPED AND TRANSPORTED AROUND THE WORLD TO DISTRIBUTORS, HOWEVER THIS CYCLE CONTRIBUTES TO CARBON EMISSIONS
CONCEPTS
PAPER MODELLING
PLASTIC MODELLING
Initial conceptualisation focused primarily on the form of the bottle, again being designed with the ability to contain liquids without caps, going from live hinges, inclusion of origami physics, flatpacking, etc. As well as experimenting with materials, such as soft and hard plastics
PROCESS LIVING HINGES
ERGONOMICS
In order to determine how the sheets would fold into form, and whether or not they’d be structurally sound (as well as aesthetically pleasing), I of course produced several physical prototypes out of paper and thin plastic sheets. I also began experimenting with origami, sealing and manufacturing in order to find the most suitable form of closing the drinking vessel, whilst also avoid compromising it’s form/appearance (heat sealing was the main method, though proved temperamental with hard and soft plastics).
HEAT SEALING
FINAL PRODUCT
PRODUCT CYCLE The final design is simple with a cup-like form that could be held in one hand, made from a 250mm square sheet of soft plastic, heat sealed to contain any liquids, and can be opened thank’s to it’s pull tab (and catch to minimise unnecessary littering). It can be easily disposed of with most recyclers and can be folded out and flatpacked to reduce space and avoid recycling/machining issues caused by the design of standard plastic bottles.
PULL TAB
CORAL INHALER MEDICAL DESIGN
3rd Year Bachelors (2019)
RESEARCH USER EXPERIENCES A survey with 590 respondents was conducted to assess asthmatic behaviours with respect to rescue inhalers: 50.6% found their inhalers to be expired when needed 48.2% found their inhalers to be empty when needed Of the empty inhaler group: 10.4% had to go to the ER for treatments 20% had to go without treatment When asked about possible improvements Adding a dose counter was the most frequently cited response “POOR ADHERENCE AND INADEQUATE INHALER TECHNIQUE ARE CONTRIBUTING FACTORS TO POOR ASTHMA CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT”
USER EXPERIENCES (paediatric) A survey conducted with 1444 child asthmatics (0 - 16) found that: 35% of school children and 4% of clinic children were found to use inhalers innapropriately, most alone 24% of school children under 5 were not using spacers It is concluded that large numbers of children are given inhalers they cannot use, and must ensure that prescriptions reflect the age and ability of the child.
USER ATTRIBUTES MDI’s require good co-ordination by the patient to ensure proper drug deposition, misuse of pMDI’s (mainly attributed to poor coordination) is frequent and associated with poorer asthma control. A notable example being that MDI’s require priming in order to be fully used, thus making drug delivery unreliable “As many as 90% of patients cannot use their MDI correctly“
USER CAPABILITIES (6 - 12) Capabilities – newly diagnosed, must be taught proper technique with simple cues and procedure Mental capabilities (ages) (taken from ‘Measure of man and woman’ by Henry Dreyfuss) 5 – 6: child learns not only by sensing and doing, but by thinking as well, basic understanding of cause and effect 8: Grip strength permits steady 12-pound pressure 11 – 12: Capable of hypothetical deductive reasoning, can bring in to bear what has been learned in the past to resolve
JOURNEY MAP OF A CHILD ASTHMATIC
2) TREATMENT
1) DIAGNOSIS
DOING: Doctor prescribes patient with inhalation treatment and provides an inhaler
DOING: Child is suffering breathing issues and is diagnosed with asthma
THINKING: Child is possibly annoyed in having to use device but understands the necessity
THINKING: worried perhaps feeling confronted
SAYING: Child is inquiring about the process
SAYING: - Child stating symptoms - Doctor giving info and diagnosis
4) MAINTAINING LIFESTYLE INSIGHTS - Keeping track of canister capacity and dosage - Portability & access to an inhaler - User disempowerment/ lack of confidence with device
DOING: Has to take inhaler depending on trigger and getting new inhalers
THINKING: Memorising procedure and dosage count and acceptance of condition SAYING: Possibly informing others about their condition if needed (i.e. secondary carers/emergency procedures)
3) SELF-MEDICATED TREATMENT DOING: Taking inhaler doses and keeping the device close THINKING: Memorising procedure and dosage count SAYING: Possible embarassment with having to use the device
EXPERIENCE MAP OF A CHILD ASTHMATIC
x
Trigger of attack
O
Repeat last step until breathing calms
Asthma attack commences
Locate and prime inhaler
Breathe in, hold for 5 - 1 seconds and exhale
Place mouthpiece between lips and activate
CONCLUSION 3 PAIN POINTS
1
Priming inhaler prior to use
2
Coordination of use
3
Ability to locate inhaler
PRODUCT ANALYSIS WITHIN THE MARKET Diskus
Novolizer
- Has Dose window and counter - Does not need priming - Hard to manufacture - Strip package delivery - Complex mechanism - Non-refillable
- Dry powder Inhaler - Breath activated - Refillable - Numerous acoustic and visual feedback mechanisms - Optimised dispersion system
pMDI
Turbuhaler
- Most common device (80% in market) - Pressurised system - Require optimal inspiratory flow & priming - Simple form
- Breath activated - Multidose Drug reservoir - Lack of patient feedback - No inhalation control mechanism - flow rate and resistance varies upon inhalation
Ellipta
Breezhaler
- Multidose DPI - 3 Step procedure (easy to use) - Dose counter included - Ergonomic mouthpiece
- Single dose capsule system - Requires good coordination from user - Drug delivery varies on user’s inhalation flow
FINDINGS Within the market pressurised meter dose inhalers dominate, but are prone to poor use due to their method of delivery and flow rate, requiring priming to mix the propellant and proper inhalation, and are known to deliver 1/3 of the drug to the lungs. Comparatively dry powder inhalers are easier to use, being only breath-activated and are shown to perform better in terms of flow rate and deposition. But still exhibits dose variation, high intrinsic resistance and a inspiratory flow dependent drug delivery. However the main cause for concern is the lack of feedback loop within the usage of the device, patient’s need dosage confirmation to ensure that they have properly administered the drug. The inclusion of audio and visual feedback systems from the Ellipta and Novolizer allows this confirmation.
All data and infographics shown were taken from the RESPTREC documents and instructions (CREDIT): https://sk.lung.ca/health-professionals/resources/resptrec-resources
SUSTAINABILITY STRATEGY
SOLUTION: DESIGN FOR LONGEVITY
EASILY CHANGE & REPLACE DRUG CANISTERS WHEN EMPTY
DESIGNED FOR EASE OF MANUFACTURING
Life cycle thinking approach: Modern inhaler’s are usually refillable and are designed for longevity (or up until the drug expires), as such the inhaler will follow this principle by also being designed for longevity, allowing the user to simply change/replace the drug canister. It is also ensured that it;d be designed for ease of manufacturing, and in the event that the inhaler needs to be disposed have it designed for an ecological end use, by keeping it as one material for easier recycling or disposal.
DESIGNED FOR SUSTAINABLE END OF USE
CONCEPTUALISATION
PROTOTYPING 3D PRINTING
FOAM MODELLING
FINAL PRODUCT
FINAL PRODUCT - MECHANICS
EXPLODED VIEW
6 COMPONENTS
CAP
Snap lock cap with in built texture
MAIN SHELL
INHALATION CHANNEL
SPIRALISER
Main shell with in built mouthpiece and texture
Main airway to direct spiraliser flow trajectory Helix tubes designed to aid drug delivery and inspiratory flow
DRUG CONTAINER Dry powder drug canister with inbuilt dose regulator
BOTTOM CAP
BREATH-ACTIVATED MECHANISM
Removable bottom cap with in built texture
The Coral Inhaler is a dry Powder Inhaler device, with a simple nonmechanical system, using only the user’s inhalation to activate the dosage delivery, where the medicine then travels through the spiraliser and mouthpiece to help with inhalation flow. Overall allowing for an easy use of the device without need for priming. The Coral inhaler is also designed for ease of disassembly, being made of one material (plastic) and having a replaceable drug canister.
Dry Powder Spiraliser The Coral Inhaler is breath activated, using no propellant the drug is simply delivered to the user through a spiraliser channel to allow for better flow rate
Mouthpiece The mouth piece is designed with an elliptical profile along with a central opening, allowing for a more focused deposition of the drug and proper trajectory towards the the throat and larynx, compared to the full opening of a standard pMDI
CORAL INHALER
STANDARD PMDI
Qube-CA MERCHANDISE DESIGN
3rd Years Bachelors 2019
Description: Qube-CA is a product designed for the Griffith University International gift exchange program, with the proposal being that the gift is to “reflect the values and creativity of the college, but also highlight the QCA campus”. As such I have decided to produce a gift that has a literal approach to the embodiment of the campus values. Qube-CA is a small 80x80mm “infinity cube” that houses a 3D print of the entire campus, integrated with the Griffith University title in the base of the print. The design is simple and with the reflective film gives an effect where within the cube is a cityscape (South Bank), but at the centre is QCA, meant to be as “the heart of South Bank”.
CONCEPTUALISATION
DESIGN PROCESS (CAD) TEST 3D-PRINT
QCA REF. MAP
The 3D model of the campus was attained from CAD mapper, which was then post-processed in SketchUp to make it more visually accurate (using site photos and 3D Google map renders as reference). Of course several iterations of the cube centrepiece were created to explore it’s physical and aesthetic composition as well as finding a befitting type-font for the side panels.
FABRICATION PROCESS
USER FEEDBACK User feedback sessions were also conducted with the cube centerpieces, testing the student’s familiarity and recognition of the 3D prints to their campus layout; this was done to ensure a successful and visually accurate representation of their university. In the end the first model (as seen in the top left) failed due to small sizing, and inclusion of other noncampus buildings. The second was more successful thanks to a focus on just the campus, as well as included titles for obviousness.
PASSIVE LIGHT CONSUMER FURNITURE 3rd Years Bachelors 2019
DESIGN PROCESS
DESIGN CONCEPT The initial premise was to experiment and conceptualize in designing a product of interest that could be laser cut manufactured and batch distributed. With the final product focusing on simple consumer furniture that could be easily assembled by the user whilst maintaining a desirable aesthetic feature. The main product of focus was of course a light.
DESIGN INTENT In order to design a simple lighting product that could be made for batch production I must ensure that the entire form of my product will follow along with ease of assembly, manufacturing and packaging/distribution. The aesthetic appearance of the Passive Light takes inspiration from the passive cooling patterns of computers (hence the name), allowing for a unique form that can be easily flat packed and assembled.
TARGET MARKET The product will be aimed at the general market specifically those interested in owning small scale furnitures and consumer technology such as desk lights; however it is also marketed towards computer builders as a bespoke item, offering a unique visual callback to passive coolers as seen in PC accessories conveyed through the contrasting use of timber to mimic their forms.
Visual Research
CONCEPTUALISATION
PATTERN EXPERIMENTATION
During the initial design process, several concepts were developed around producing a wooden product, such as a coaster, mobile battery, and a personalized light. Afterwards I then began experimenting with the composition of a light, informed by my visual research on passive cooling techniques, primarily with pattern layout. Exploring patterns such as straight fins, dot arrays, concentric arcs, and alternating lines. In the end I chose to do a simple straight pattern for ease of user assembly
INITIAL PROTOTYPING
Initial designs focused on the light having straight, vertical fins, however prototyping proved this to be unstable, and though I wanted to have a consistent visual aesthetic, fin supports had to be implemented. The first shape of the fin supports tried to keep the overall appearance uniform and consistent, by having small inserts that would hold the outer side fins, though again this proved unstable. In the end the fin supports had to hold them in place by completely surrounding them.
WORKSHOP FABRICATION
ADAPT CHAIR Office ergonomics for the home FURNITURE DESIGN 3rd Years Bachelors 2019
DESIGN INTENT
VISUAL RESEARCH
OFFICE CHAIR SPECTRUM Static
Mechanical
Feature Analysis
The design of office chairs are intended to maximise the comforts and ergonomics of their user during long hours in a maintained sedentary position, with products ranging from being static to having mechanics that allow a wider range of comfort and adjustability. However the same cannot be said for home lounge chairs which are mainly static, upholstered and non-adjustable, save for certain chairs such as the “Lazyboy� Arm chair (though the chair itself is rather bulky in comparison). So could it be possible to bring in office ergonomics to the home chair?
SKETCHING
DESIGN PROCESS The design of the Adapt Chair was built upon the idea of bringing office ergonomics to the home, mainly on the basis of mechanics and elevating comfort for sedentary positions during long hours. Initial sketch development focused on the overall form and composition, from angular side profiles to more curved outlines. Afterwards it was then exploring the mechanics of how I could mimic office chairs into a home chair, from modular cushions to adjustable foam strips. The final design was based on a simple wooden chair with straight lines and curved surfaces to make up the chair and backrest. The main manufacturing method for the Adapt chair will focus primarily on woodworking, specifically plywood moulding for the seat and back rest and CNC milling for the legs and brace (initial processes for the legs and brace focused on steam-bending/accumulation, but was rejected due to manufacturing time constraints)
HAND PROTOTYPING
CAD
FABRICATION
FEATURES UPPER BACK SUPPORT
PRESS-MOULDED PLYWOOD BACKREST
PRESS-MOULDED PLYWOOD SEAT
600MM
1004MM
704MM
DEMYSTIFY MASK “See what you breathe, show what you breathe” CAPSTONE project 3rd Years Bachelors 2019
The problem In 2016, 91% of the world population was living in places where the WHO air quality guidelines levels were not met
Ambient (outdoor air pollution) in both cities and rural areas was estimated to cause 4.2 million
premature deaths worldwide in 2016.
While hazardous air pollution levels have lowered over the past few decades in select countries, even low levels are attributed to cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, people still face the health risks posed by HAP and/or high exposures due to hot spots What is particulate matter? A mixture of atmospheric and airborne chemicals that make up a toxic compound of various sizes
PM 10
Can enter and lodge deep inside the lungs
PM 2.5
Can penetrate the lung barrier and enter the bloodstream
The leading cause of HAP related diseases are attributed to fine particulate matter
These particles can cause health defects and incommunicable diseases in the long run
Market Audit The current market for HAP intervention strategies vary, from air filters, monitoring devices, and face masks, with the latter being at a personal level. Both products (masks and monitors) remain unchanged in the last decade except for their use and medium, face masks interchange between use as a fashion accessory, indicate one’s health/illness, or protection against diseases and pollution. Air monitors vary in terms of medium and the user, with industry professionals being provided with in-depth data to analyse, and for the general user a simple UI that clearly notifies them of the air quality.
In terms of effectiveness, face masks work well for protection and already has a long-standing visual and cultural significance It can be observed that the market offers devices for both the layman and industry professional, and have appropriate means of data visualisation for either group.
DATA FOCUS
VISUALISATION
User insights
Questionnaires were conducted with 13 respondents to provide insight into their understandings, habits and perceptions around air pollution and the monitoring devices/platforms available.
FINDINGS All participants acknowledge the presence of air pollution 76.19% ARE UNAWARE OF THE LEVELS OF TOXICITY IN THE AIR AND HALF NOT KNOWING OF THE DETRIMENTAL HEALTH EFFECTS IT INDUCES 92.50% of respondents admitted they are unaware of the air quality levels in their area, with nearly the same amount not knowing they have access to such information provided by their local government There is still an urgent need to better educate the public about the health risks of air pollution, and in order to effectively implement interventions that separate people from pollution, a greater understanding of exposure at the community and personal level is needed
“People tend to distinguish air pollution with physical manifestations such as smog, however The lack of visible smog is no indication that the air is healthy.�
PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS
EDUCATIONAL
SENSOR UNIT
WEARABLE
UI/UX
Initial Concepts Initial concepts of focused more towards developing a ‘techy’ wearable device that was designed with standard components in mind (such as a micro-controller and an LCD screen for display). This direction however was rather short sighted in execution as it was too similar to the devices highlighted in the market audit. As such the platform direction was changed to be more speculative and fashionable (as I wanted to retain my wearables aspect), to not only break the norm within my chosen market but to also combine fashion, health and safety.
Parts configuration I then designed several circuit board layouts to visualise my assembly. My main components were of course my sensor (a CCS811 gas sensor that detects CO2 and TVOC) and a heating element, the heating element varied with concepts developed around Peltier chips (to keep one side cool and the other warm) conductive threading and a simple heat pad.
Fritzing LAYOUTS
Parts assembly & coding Coding the design was iterative as initial stages focused on teaching myself basic analogue input and given value outputs, but the main function of my code was that if the sensor were to reach a certain value (e.g. for CO2 above 1000 PPM) it’d activate my heat pad to begin changing the thermo-reactive pigment painted on the mask’s fabric. The lead up to the final design of my code focused on ensuring that my heat pad was getting signal and that the thresholds of the sensor were at optimum levels in order to retain the heat pad at a constant temperature long enough to activate the pattern.
Fabrication & applying thermochromic pigment
Pattern exploration was done when applying the thermochromic paint onto the fabric to see the effectiveness of heat dispersion and data visualisation, as well as hand stitching to create the mask
THANK YOU https://www.behance.net/paolotorres ptoress299@gmail.com 0424506796