Module 1 Activity Research
Weekly Activity Template
Xinyi Wang
Project 1
Module 1
In Module 1 of Interaction Design: Physical Computing, we were introduced to the foundational tools and concepts of physical computing through four weekly activities. In Week 1, we learned to set up and program an Arduino microcontroller, using the Blink sketch and LED circuit to understand basic hardware and IDE operations Physical Computing Module 1 Act… . Week 2 introduced ProtoPie and sensor simulation, where we created a temperature-based prototype that demonstrated how digital interfaces can reflect real-world sensor input. In Week 3, we explored generative visuals using TouchDesigner, linking it to Arduino data via potentiometers and learning how to create responsive visual elements Physical Computing Module 1 Act… . Finally, in Week 4, we conducted trend and persona research based on WGSN, laying the groundwork for future project directions by applying design research methods and HMW frameworks to emotional and material-based tech trends.
Activity 1
Activity 2
Activity 3
Research Activity
WGSN Consumer Trend Research
In Step 1, I explored two WGSN tech trends to guide the direction of my physical computing project. The first trend, UX/UI Design for Emotional Connection, focuses on creating empathetic and emotionally supportive user experiences through digital interactions. The second trend, CMF Trends: Print & Pattern 2025, highlights how color, material, and finish can be used to create personalized and emotionally expressive tech products. These trends helped me identify key themes of emotional wellbeing, identity, and sensory experience.
WGSN Personas Research
Based on the trends I selected, I chose two WGSN personas that align with the emotional and material themes of my project. The Energisers are playful, curious users who seek joyful, emotionally fulfilling experiences to manage stress and build social connection. The New Independents value personal expression and adaptability, often using customization and aesthetic design to reflect their identity. These personas helped me understand user motivations and guided my project direction.
HMI Research
In Step 3, I used the HMW framework to turn my trend insights into creative design opportunities. For emotional UX, I asked: How might we design interactions that help users feel more connected and emotionally supported? For CMF, I explored: How might I use materials and patterns to reflect emotional identity and sensory preferences? Each question was based on real user needs and opened up possibilities for both functional and expressive design directions.
Project Path
After completing my research, I reflected on my personal interests and chose one design path and one art path. For the Design Path, I plan to create a wearable or desktop device that responds to emotional states through subtle feedback like light or vibration. For the Art Path, I envision an expressive object or sculpture that uses patterns, colors, and textures to convey identity and emotion through sensory interaction. These directions reflect my dual interest in emotional connection and tactile material design.
Project 1 Concept
Project 1 Concept
These three inspirational projects helped shape the direction of my concept. Mood-vironment by Mona Ghandi introduced the idea of creating emotionally responsive public spaces that foster social connection through immersive light and form. The emotional mirror lamp installation inspired a more intimate, personal interaction by visualizing inner feelings through soft color feedback. Lastly, the modular interactive light wall demonstrated how touch could trigger a flowing, wave-like response across physical components, influencing my approach to dynamic, modular interaction in my design.
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