HeartBeat Tales
During the Fall of 2021, I worked on an Interactive Installation project called Heartbeat Tales as part of a class assignment. This project utilizes sensor technology to provide users with informative experiences related to abortion in Texas and the Heartbeat Bill. The primary objective of this installation is to allow users to empathetically understand the challenges faced by women due to this law, and to shed light on the various negative impacts it has on this particular demographic, along with other relevant facts.
Arduino, Java, Adobe Premiere Pro, Miro
Team
Karolyna Ibave: Design Lead
Shruthi Nampoothiri: Tech Lead
User
Objective: To receive 85% positive feedback/ for users to have a comfortable experience in terms of connections, sensors, usability, and also the contents of the presentation itself being relevant and informative.
Analysis: The feedback from users was predominantly positive, as they expressed enjoyment in both the physical aspect of the art installation and the chosen topic. Users particularly appreciated the choice of materials and the unique nature of the steps. However, some users expressed hesitation when stepping on a particular step due to the crunching sound produced by the aluminum foil, which made them feel as if they were causing damage.
Additionally, we received feedback regarding the visual components, specifically the videos, which were perceived as wordy and too fast-paced to read comfortably. Suggestions were made to incorporate audio elements and reduce the amount of text displayed.
Low Fidelity Steps
High Fidelity Steps
Final Process
In the final step of the project, we incorporated two aluminum foil-wrapped circles and attached a new sponge to one side. Prior to placement, holes were cut in the sponge to allow the aluminum on each circle to touch when pressure was applied. All the steps were connected to a Makey Makey device using green wire clamps. The wires from the Makey Makey device were then fastened onto the bottom wrapped circle, and the entire step was covered with fabric for a cohesive finish.
High Fidelity Prototypes Step in Use
Videos