<aside> <img src="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ff752471-cd0e-4967-b534-dcddb95a4004/461c0e1c-4b40-49ed-bf3e-8e46f6c964e7/Screenshot_2023-01-11_204920.jpg" alt="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/ff752471-cd0e-4967-b534-dcddb95a4004/461c0e1c-4b40-49ed-bf3e-8e46f6c964e7/Screenshot_2023-01-11_204920.jpg" width="40px" /> Physical Computing + Prototyping + Speculative Design

CONCEPT OVERVIEW

Unconscious Signals, Deliberate Responses:

Blinking and frowning are behaviors we rarely notice, yet they carry hidden layers of meaning — reflections of cognitive load, emotional states, and attention. By intentionally amplifying these micro-actions, we acknowledge their significance and transform them into purposeful input signals.

One-liner:

By enhancing the impact of micro-body inputs like blinking and frowning, my design turns them into meaningful channels for interaction. Through amplifying the output of these subtle actions, it provides users with an experience that is more caring, playful, and thought-provoking.

WHY THIS MATTERS

Description:

The human eye is an incredibly sensitive and advanced sensor. Blinking and frowning are often unconscious, micro-scale bodily actions. By magnifying these subtle behaviors, they can be transformed from simple physiological responses into a new medium for interaction. In this design concept, blinking no longer remains an involuntary reflex but becomes a key trigger that unlocks deeper interactive potential.

Encouraging Self-Awareness:

When everyday, involuntary gestures are given agency, users become more attuned to their unconscious behaviors. This heightened awareness encourages reflection on how we communicate nonverbally, prompting us to consider the relationship between our inner states and the technologies we interact with.

Expanding Interaction Paradigms:

Moving beyond familiar gestures like swipes or taps, this approach explores unconventional inputs that demand less physical effort while conveying richer meaning. By embracing subtle bodily signals, we open doors to new interaction possibilities, driving innovation in how we design, engage with, and ultimately understand technology.

POINT OF VIEW

Speculative Question: How can technology more effectively respond to ‘invisible gestures’—subtle, often unconscious bodily inputs like blinking or frowning?

Context:

My design proposes two components: a pair of smart notification-enabled glasses and a companion “screen page-turner”, both powered by machine learning models. My final deliverable takes the form of a foundational prototype for modern smart glasses. However, unlike other smart glasses, these invite us to imagine new forms of interaction. By drawing attention to everyday, often unnoticed behaviors—such as blinking when tired or frowning in frustration—I transform subtle, unconscious gestures into intentional triggers. The result is an interaction that feels playful, performative, and thought-provoking.

Aim:

Ultimately, this speculative approach asks us to consider the deeper implications of interpreting and amplifying our most minute, involuntary actions. How might small, unconscious movements carry meaningful insights? What responsibilities and opportunities arise when technology begins to recognize, respond to, and even shape our unconscious cues?