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Case Study: Operation Rhinoctopus
/ Challenges & Considerations
Creating form factors for tentacle
shape that allow for embedded sensors
For this project to be successful,
the user could not be made aware of he sensors through the use of
the tentacle (i.e. they should not be able to feel the sensors within
the controller). As I was developing its shape, I knew that not
only would it have to fit comfortably in the hand, it also needed
to be thick enough that sensors could be completely encased within
its form.
Deciding which sensors would
best serve the design
Whichever sensors I chose, they
would need to possess two main qualities: they would be able to
adequately receive their sensory input through the silicone cover,
and they would be able to withstand bending and squeezing.
Searching for materials to build
controller that are not cost-prohibitive
At this point, I am still searching
for less expensive options for molding the tentacles, especially
since the final apparatus will have eight different tentacles, all
of which would preferably be longer than their current state. I
am going to speak to other artists and industrial designers to discover
other mold-making possibilities.
Embedding sensors in such a way that they output optimum data streams
This challenge needs to be investigated
further. While the force sensing resistors seem to be extremely
sensitive once embedded, the bend sensors do not output a high enough
data range to be effective.
Making the controller sturdy
enough to withstand heavy use
During Demo Day Fall 2004, the
force sensing resistor stopped working after a participant used
the tentacle. I hypothesize that a connection was broken somewhere
inside the tentacle. Even though I am aware that my main audience
is not going to be children, the tentacle and its internal components
need to be strong enough to hold up to roguh play. Since it looks
like a toy, even the most mature users might want to test its limitations.
Repairing malfunctioning sensors
that are embedded within silicone
With the sensors embedded within
the controller's silicone shape, making repairs to the sensors and
internal wiring pose a challenge. At this juncture, I would need
to cut into the tentacle to "do surgery", which is an
inconvenience; however, there are various silicone adhesives whch
allow for the "wound" to be sealed after the repairs are
made.
Learning new technologies that facilitate the creation of such a
video controller
(Max/MSP/Jitter; video editing and animation tools)
Examining the ways in which people initially interact with the controller
and learn how to use it
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