DX Portfolio
LuminLeaf
The LuminLeaf is an art installation that enhances urban well-being by responding to emotional states through biofeedback. Using Galvanic Skin Response (GSR) sensors, it visualizes users' emotions with dynamic light and sound, adapting in real-time to reduce stress and anxiety. Tested across Columbia University, LuminLeaf has shown potential in libraries and public spaces, offering a private yet interactive way to improve mental health in cities. By bridging the gap between technological innovation and mental health, LuminLeaf offers a pioneering approach to enhancing life quality in urban settings, making it a valuable addition to smart city initiatives.
Theme
Art Installation, Affective Computing
Roles
Designer & Prototyper
Tools
GSR, Audrino Uno, Java, LED Ring, Blade, Laser Cutting
The Prompt
Living in cities often leads to stress and emotional issues due to various pressures, heightening the risk of mental health problems like depression and anxiety. Although methods like meditation and spending time in parks help, they rely on individuals recognizing their emotional states, which isn't always immediate. Inspired by an app that tracks daily emotional changes, we plan to develop a product to enhance emotional awareness and regulation.
Ideation
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The Workflow
Technology
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Prototyping
The final prototype consists of three primary components:
Arduino box
Fiber optics and reflective materials
Black box with a slogan board
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Testing
Pilot Site: Libraries, Classrooms in GSAPP, Columbia University Morningside & Manhattanville Campus
Time: April 18, 2024 - May 1, 2024
Number of Participants: 4
Number of Experiments: 12
Experiments:
Experiment 1: Wearing the prototype while doing assignment and observe the prototype's interaction and how the the emotion status change in response to the prototype interaction(lighting changes, fan spinning...)
Experiment 2: Wearing the prototype while doing the same type of work in the different environment settings.
Experiment 3: Wearing the prototype while doing different types of work in the same environment setting.
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Data Analysis
Studying in different libraries
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Taking different activities
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Different people studying in the same library
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Local Interaction
In a 1m scale interaction, LuminLeaf’s color changes allow users to track their emotional fluctuations during an activity. This feedback assists in identifying the most suitable space for that specific task. Positioned at the edge of a table, it senses the user’s emotional changes, enhancing personal experiences.
In a 10m scale interaction, within a small classroom with other people, a user’s emotions are visible to others when the LuminLeaf is in use. This visibility may stimulate interactions with the user, influencing the emotional atmosphere.
On a 100m scale, for instance, at a library or outdoor squares, groups can gather around the device for discussions, treating it as an entertainment facility. Individuals can take turns using the GSR sensor to understand their own emotions, adding an element of enjoyment for everyone.
Urban Interaction
We expect the product to serve as a bridge between the user’s emotional state and the necessary actions, not only to help individuals with self-understanding and emotion management but also to provide healthcare professionals with an adjunct to support a more holistic approach to mental health management.
When placed in public spaces such as offices and studios, it can provide reminders for individuals and groups to manage negative emotions.
It can also be placed in urban spaces as an art installation. We will remove the negative feedback from the product and only feed positive emotions. Imagine that when a passerby puts their hand on the sensor, their positive emotion will light up the “Tree of Joy” on the installation and spread this light to another corner of the city. Our vision is to make it easy for people to share their happiness through this device.