Studio Zonnevang // Interaction Designer
Under the Loop
Project Type:
University Project
Team:
Charlotte de Jonghe
Kumsal Kurt
Yara Boom
Associated Institutes:
Center for Urban Science & Policy
Delft University of Technology
Featured in:
City Climate meets Creative Coding Festival 2023
Year:
2023
Someone testing our prototype
About the project
As part of the Citizens Voice initiative by the Centre of Urban Science & Policy, Under the Loop is a project that goes into the nitty gritty of co-creation, urban planning and citizen science. The design solution, which resembles a magnifying glass, empowers citizens to shape their surroundings actively by sharing local and context specific data. Breaking the norm of late-stage involvement in the urban planning process, we envisioned that Under the loop would allow for citizen participation from step zero, placing individuals at the decision-making table without losing information in translation. Targeting pioneers keen on challenging the status quo, the device prompts citizens to share thoughts and concerns, backed by sensor-collected data. This data is accessible to all through an open-source database, providing a new tool for citizens to build a case to present to the city council and for urban planners to build their work on.
Explanatory video of the project
Rapid prototyping as a way to crystallise ideas
The first phase of this project we were in a constant iterative cycle of making, testing and evaluating. The constant generation and testing of new prototypes promoted that we broaden our horizon. While most tests utilised interactive technology, it also taught me that some concepts can be tested without relying technology and that enactment is an incredibly powerful tool for prototyping interactions. All these little tests later formed solid building blocks for Under the Loop
A few of the rapid prototypes that we tested
Developing the narrative through design artefacts
Creating models, from mock-ups to implementation prototypes, revealed their effectiveness as conversation starters and self explaining tools to visiting audiences. Mock-ups, with modular attributes, sensors, and actuators, in particular were great for acting out interactions together with participants. While, implementation prototypes guided us in refining our concept’s specifics, pushing us to consider dimensions, parameters, and visualisation. Having both, has not only initiated meaningful discussions of the artefacts relation to our vision and scope but also added conceptual clarity.
The three prototypes that told our story
Takeaways
This project truly helped me develop my skills with microcontrollers and 3D printing. It forced us to quickly manifest our ideas and later to create a somewhat functional artefact.
Additionally, it brought us new insights in the role of citizens in urban planning and the way that other designers approach target groups. The weekly test sessions brought us new insights in what data is valuable and what not.
