This is a quick prototype of the donation mechanism that will live next to my multi-touch table. This is where participants drop their donations when they engage with the test. The servo is a little jittery at the moment but this prototype is helping me work out some of the final design and engineering issues. I wired a rotary knob and a reset button so I can control the movements during testing. The final version will be controlled by the multi-touch table and a signal will be sent to the donation box to tilt the floor according to the outcome of the game. I'm planning to have all of the pieces laser cut so everything should move as smooth as silk when finished. The donation box will be divided down the middle – if you win, the floor of the donation box will tilt to drop your money into the “matched donations” side of the canister and if you lose, the floor will drop your money into the “unmatched donations” side.
IBM Think! Exhibit - NYC
IBM Think! was an exhibit / interactive experience staged in an underground parking garage at Lincoln Center in NYC. The entrance ramp was flanked by a huge LED wall which streamed a mix of prepared video and real time data (pollution index, traffic data etc). Inside the exhibit were large vertical LCD panels and mirrored walls which transformed the space into an immersive presentation that surrounded the audience with choreographed sound, video and text. When the video presentation ended the screens essentially turned into large interactive iPad-like devices which the exhibit-goers used to explore content. This was a very well crafted exhibit full of useful information and technology.
Instruction Set for Strangers: Occupy Wall Street
This MFADT assignment required us to design/develop an "object" that could be deployed in a public space to prompt interaction and discourse. Seizing the opportunity to explore the boundaries of free speech and to interact with the growing crowds at Zucotti Park, we designed and built a giant (portable) crossword puzzle. Faced with the challenges of restricted space, law enforcement activity and public safety, we designed our entire installation to be low-tech, modular, moveable and easy to setup. We carried the pieces into the park, assembled our installation and enjoyed a day full of lively interaction with the OWS protesters (...and the NYPD). The theme of the puzzle was "Those Who Profit From Ignorance Fear Knowledge" – download the crossword puzzle and try it yourself. (Thanks to fellow designer Xiaoye Lin!) [gallery link="file"]