For my final project I decided to program a door knob to generate a series of interactions. It was inspired by one of the readings I did in this course. The summary is, it was a shame that our gestures with devices and technology have been reduced to pressing down on glass screens and sliding - what could a grip do? So that was that - a door knob, gripable, something I do every day and there are millions of these in the world, and that interaction could do with a disruption!
I had initial ideas on what I wanted the doorknob to do, like turn on the lights, get the kettle to boil (that’s something I’ve wanted for myself especially on chilly nights) and toggle these interactions from a browser. But that wasn’t serious business, and I had deep thoughts on how mundane this woudld, but I went to Home Depot and got myself a couple of door knobs (one with a lock and the other without).
{insert doorknob picture}
Lo & Behold - play testing!
Playtesting helped alot! Here’s why:
- I was able to explain my idea to others, reinforcing my faith in the smartknobs practicality or applicability.
- With their responses I was able to come up with more scenarios or uses for it (below). These came about with discussions as well as myself elaborating on them a bit more:
- Lights going from dim to high
- Shower turning on
- Closet door opens (inviting you to put your jacket/clothes in)
- A placemat/bucket which indicates that it’s time to put your keys, wallet etc so you don’t lose them.
- Set an alarm
- Receive a reminder because Siri doesn’t do GPS reminders very well (reminders can be, call Mum!)
- Crack window open
- Play music
- Flip the TV on
- Access keys to frienflies
Some interest came about through exiting and having a doorknob trigger a series of interactions.
- SHUT down everything was the most popular.
- Make sure gas stove is off.
- Fridge door is closed properly.
- Security alarm gets activated/make sure door is locked properly.
- Make sure all the lights/computer systems are off.
- Dishwasher ran ONLY if it’s 80% full (basically apartment starts taking care of itself)
- Check-in from afar if there isn’t a break-in. Notify police if there is.