Problem
Research for the Brain Music Lab typically involves collecting data from human participants – bringing people into the lab to do an activity such as listening to music and answering questions – so they can measure changes in behavior and record brain or body signals from them. Unfortunately, these types of studies take a lot of time to run, and they are limited by the researcher's schedule.
Objective
To design and develop a long-lasting public installation that would invite passersby to interact with the device, learn about their work and the studies that are available for them to participate in, and then sit down and complete as many tasks as they wish. The goal is to create an inviting tabletop "arcade-style" device that provides a welcoming, comfortable environment and allows the research team to receive more data for their lab.
Inspiration
Referenced precedent table-top interaction devices and considered multiple different design aesthetics to explore aesthetics and form.
Precedent devices
Aesthetic Ideation
Concept Development
The concept started with rapid sketches inspired by movement and interaction. These initial designs included various methods of seating and table layouts, shaping the look and feel of the arcade table to make it both intuitive and engaging.
Model Development
Initial models began with exploring interactive, game-like features, progressing to aesthetic and overall function of the device.
Prototyping
The prototypes ranged from initial low-fidelity models that facilitated early testing and concept validation to more refined iterations that guided further design decisions and functionality assessments.
