Interactions Research

Inspiration for rePLAY interactions come from contemporary DIY craft movements and the refreshing change of attitude within the current economic recession to reusing, mending and sourcing second-hand goods rather than buying new disposable items. The soft sensor designs and circuits are also inspired by wearable technologies, gadget technology hacking, traditional children’s toys and my love of crafts and the environment.

Researching contemporary crafts using yarn and conductive yarn, and conductive fabrics & conductive paints has led to the development of circuits for rePLAY that integrate the wiring plan into the physical design. The wiring becomes camouflaged as an end-user decorative feature. To develop the technology needed, I have researched the use of existing soft circuits and DIY low tech sensors in multimedia exhibitions. Along with looking into the current use of craft based interactions in post-graduate multimedia projects.

As interactions designer I will create a variety of soft circuits handmade from craft material, fabric and yarn. From a play perspective the texture of soft material seems interesting to touch and explore. I like this for rePLAY because sensors hidden in fabric are very different to everyday technology input-devices that adults use.

Sensors using conductive materials are also interesting and attractive to look at. Soft circuits are to technology, what soft furnishings are to a home; they make it more personal, warm and comfortable.

Below are examples of existing projects I found online. Click the links to view short video clips of each project in action.

(the silver yarn is conductive, touching the metal beads completes the circuit)
Crochet tilt sensor	Crochet potentiometer
http://bit.ly/fpfXuZ

conductive pompom tilt sensor http://bit.ly/adSvHo	conductive yarn inflation sensor http://bit.ly/gRJbpP

paper piano http://bit.ly/g34Cyf	knitted stretch sensor http://bit.ly/gqWSpR

Annie.

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