Functional Decomposition
Whispr will allow the user to practice singing confidently. The user will sing into the device, inputting air and sound. Air ventilation will be required to allow breathability, and a lower amplitude sound will be output from the device. The device will also need electrical power input and will provide an audio signal for audio monitoring.
To help the user carol with confidence, Whispr will attenuate sound to lower the volume of the singer, allowing them to sing undisturbed. Whispr will also have monitoring capabilities to provide the singer with live audio feedback as well as playback.
The user will first put Whispr on and plug in their headphones. Next, they can push the power button, which will need to activate the device's battery, and thus power on the mask. The user can now begin caroling with confidence and sing into the product. As the user sings, an internal audio processing unit will provide live audio feedback, as well as record to provide playback capabilities. While the user is singing, Whispr will passively absorb vibrations from the user's voice, dampening the overall sound. This compartment will also absorb vibrations so as to prevent propogation. Whispr has three main sub-functions. First, the user needs to setup the device and put it on. Whispr will also have an onboard audio processing unit to provide live and playback audio feedback. Finally, Whispr will include the ability to wash the interior compartment.
Whispr is made up of two compartments, an interior dampening unit and an exterior shell. These compartments are able to be separated and must be connected before use. The user will then put Whispr on. Whispr will stay on the via two adjustable straps that will go around the user's head. After putting them on, fastening in place, and adjusting, the user is good to go.
Whispr's onboard audio processing unit is capable of both live audio feedback as well as playback audio. As the user sings, a microphone picks up the user's voice and inputs the signal into the audio processing unit. For live feedback, it will be amplified and sent back to the user through their headphones. For playback, Whispr will store audio. Once the user wishes to hear the playback audio, they will press the playback button, at which point Whispr retrieves the recording and sends it to the user.
Whispr's Internal Dampening Unit (IDU) can be taken apart to be washed. To do so, the foam and microphone must be removed. At this point, the user can clean the interior of the IDU. Next, the microphone is reinserted and a new foam lining is installed.
Concept Trees
The provided diagram outlines the conceptual tree which defines Whispr at its core. In order to further develop it, seven distinct design elements were defined that will help form this product.
The first area prioritized in the design are the methods for sound attenuation. This area dissects further into active and passive noise cancellation strategies. Passive methods include the use of sound-absorbing materials, airtight sealing, and sound redirecting geometries.
Next is the device's form, consisting of it being either a mask, booth, or helmet configuration. For a mask, the option of nose coverage was studied. The booth's design was also evaluated, revolving around a potential choice between a cubical or ellipsoidal shape.
The third design concentration is the contact area, meaning the determination as to how the device aligns with the user. Different avenues were explored- either non-contact with the user's face, or face-covering options that include the mouth and/or the nose.
The attachment method is the fourth area of exploration. This section consisted of either a strap as means for aligning the device to the user's face, or an alternative external attachment method. Strap options involve a single, double, or ear strap (akin to a disposable mask). The external attachments would either be a solid casing encircling the user's head or a tripod.
Audio capturing abilities was the fifth area of design exploration. This branch was simplified as it consisting of a mic; however, the decision as to whether it will be internal or external, was explored.
Audio processing encompasses the sixth design component, requiring a choice between an internal processor or an external solution via a third party app, such as GarageBand.
The final design focus consists of refining the audio playback capability. Potential options include internal speakers, an audio jack, or Bluetooth connectivity.