Assignment 2 & Final Project:
Ideation & Conceptual Design for Smart Environment: Wheelchair User Focus (20%+50%)
Due Date: 22 March 2024 | 23:59
Assignment Brief
Objective: Develop skills in inclusive design by creating a smart environment system for wheelchair users. The project involves user research, need identification, conceptual design, user manual creation, and reflection on the design process.(separate in to 6 stages)
Stages:
(10 points) User Research: Investigate challenges faced by wheelchair users in a specific environment through interviews, surveys, and observation. Document key insights.
(15 points) Need Identification & Matching: Identify an unmet need based on research findings. Analyze how a smart environment system could address the identified need.
(20 points) Sketching Conceptual Idea: Create initial sketches of a smart environment system focusing on core functionalities, user interactions, and technical feasibility.
(15 points) System Design Diagram: Translate sketched idea into a labeled diagram showcasing system components and interactions using appropriate visuals and annotations.
(20 points) User Manual: Develop a clear and concise user manual explaining installation, operation, and maintenance procedures, tailored to the needs of wheelchair users.
(20 points) Reflection Report & Infographic: Write a reflection report on the design process, including challenges, insights, and decision-making. Create an infographic summarizing key project points, including identified user needs, system functionalities, and expected benefits for wheelchair users.
Things to Submit
Research findings report (Stage 1)
At least THREE Hand-drawn sketches or digital illustrations of the conceptual idea (Stage 3)
ONE System design diagram (Stage 4)
ONE User manual document (Stage 5)
ONE Reflection report (Stage 6)
ONE Infographic (Stage 6)
Research findings report (Stage 1 and 2)
During Stages 01 and 02 of this assignment, I conducted research and surveys with wheelchair users. Subsequently, I will need to create user personas to identify their needs and determine potential actions to address them. This process will allow me to gain insight into what I could do for wheelchair users using embedded systems and get idea for Stage 03.
THREE Hand-drawn sketches (Stage 3)
In Stage 03, I have sketched three mind maps to expand the idea and brainstorm the process further, aiming to gain a clearer direction on what I want to pursue.
ONE System design diagram (Stage 4)
For this part, I will need to create a system design diagram, including elements such as user flow to illustrate the sequence of interactions between the user and the system.
ONE User manual document (Stage 5)
After making sure of the system design for the wheelchair-accessible in public washroom, Stage 03 will need to proceed with creating a user manual that provide detailed instructions on the functionality of the system, its operation within the washroom environment, and how it addresses the specific needs of wheelchair users.
ONE Infographic (Stage 6)
As part of Stage 6, Will need to create an infographic or poster promoting the wheelchair-accessible washroom embedded system, illustrating its components and functionality within the washroom environment.
ONE Reflection report (Stage 6)
This assignment has provided me with invaluable insights into the daily challenges faced by wheelchair users. It not only broadened my understanding of various embedded systems but also deepened my grasp of the idea generation process. Applying classroom knowledge, such as utilizing motion lights in washrooms to conserve energy, became apparent through surveys and conversations with wheelchair users. This approach not only enhances lighting functionality but also contributes to energy conservation, as Mr. Yusri illustrated with smart home systems in our class discussions. This realization underscores the potential for embedded systems to not only improve functionality but also address broader societal concerns like energy efficiency.
Furthermore, this assignment has been pivotal in refining my social skills. Engaging with wheelchair users provided me with a better understanding of their perspectives and needs, which is crucial for designing inclusive solutions. Through this process, I've gained some confidence in interacting with diverse groups of people, a skill that is invaluable both academically and professionally.
Overall, this assignment has been a journey of skill development and self-discovery. It has allowed me to identify areas of strength and areas for further improvement. Moreover, it provided me with opportunities to refine a diverse set of skills throughout the process. It has also highlighted areas where I need to further enhance my abilities for future assignments or work.