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 |
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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