INTERACTION DESIGN FINAL PROJECT

2021-2023

Challenge: Address a design issue of your own choice or initiation by research, developing and creating a design artefact or prototype. To enhance the existing discipline of interaction design and extend the boundaries of currently available interaction services, products or systems.

The solution: An interactive talking plant pot designed to support new plant owners learn how to better care for their plants. It creates a more engaging and enjoyable experience and highlights the positive impacts can have on a person’s mental health.

Initial Research

I carried out my initial research to help define the potential problems I wanted to tackle. This involved carrying out surveys and analysing existing research data surrounding the benefits of plants as well as the possible issues people face.

Concept Development

The concept comprised of two key parts, the physical product and the mobile app to support the product. It was important to test the possible layout designs for the plant pot in order to keep the technical parts hidden away where they could function without the risk of water damage.

Arduino Coding

Once I had put together the build for my project, I used the Arduino software to code the modules. This involved setting the relevant values for the soil moisture, light and ultrasonic sensor so that it would trigger the sound module to play phrases under particular conditions.

App Development

I designed an app to be used alongside my plant pot product, as this would help users monitor their plant and see the state of their plant. This would also allow for customisation options, which would portray a more personal experience for the user. I designed a site map and basic wireframe sketches as a guide and develop into a working prototype using Proto.io.