Spark

Timeline —

Apr. 2024 - Jun. 2024

Role —

User Research Mobile UI Design Smart Device Design

Tools —

Collaborator —

Individual Project

Figma Arduino Blender Rhino Photoshop

This innovative machine features a unique 'surprise mode,' which deliberately introduces imperfections into prints. This design encourages students to accept imperfection and explore multiple possibilities, fostering an open-minded approach to learning. Additionally, the novel printing method and the machine's creative design further enhance artistic expression.

Incorporating a user-friendly app, Spark offers children a comprehensive experience that spans from initial brainstorming and digital design to the creation of tangible products. This seamless integration ensures a holistic educational journey, empowering students to turn imaginative ideas into real-world objects.

“A designed 3D printer machine and app that enhances the creativity and problem-solving skills of elementary school students.”

01. Problem Background

Nowadays children's creativity is decreasing

63.5% of sample thought that primary school students aren’t offered a lot of opportunities to manifest creativity
In 2017 studies, data show children are becoming less emotionally energetic and imaginative
Some children are afraid to create for fear of failure and lack of affirmation, thus denying their own creativity for a long period of time.

01. The Problem

02. Problem Context

Where does children's creativity come from?

Exploration: Children are naturally curious

Imagination: Children's minds are hopeful
Cognitive skills: Creativity is linked to experiences
Self-awareness: Self-awareness through creation

Students ages 7-11 begin to solve problems in a logical way. Creativity can encourage students to think critically and find innovative solutions to challenges.
Students ages 8 start to create not mimic.
Builds Confidence: Allows children to express themselves freely, boosting self-esteem and resilience.
Fosters Emotional Growth: Helps students process emotions and develop empathy through imaginative play and storytelling.

Why is Creativity Important for children?

So I choose elementary school students who are going through this transition as my target users

Embrace mistakes and celebrate failures.
Emphasize process, not product.
Teach creative problem-solving techniques.
Get involved as a collaborator.

How to boost creativity?

02. Research

01. Competitive product

There are two main competitive products

02. Interview

I interviewed two family (4th grade daughter and 6th grade son) about how they think about creativity and their opinion on creativity and its process

Interview Summary

03. Persona

The two personas represent the primary users—elementary school students—and their parents, who serve as secondary users.

04. User Journey Map

User journey maps allow me to illustrate the steps, emotions, and challenges users encounter as they engage with the service.

03. Design Concept

01. Ideation

Easy

A easy using 3D printing machine

Fun & Simple

Fun and simple UI design for children

Mistakes

How can we create an engaging 3D PRINTING experience that fosters CREATIVITY and problem-solving with mistakes in elementary school students?

Make mistakes to spark creativity

02. Affinity Clustering

04. Integrated Design Solutions

I designed and built a simplified, yet innovative 3D printing machine using acrylic boards and three motors. The two primary motors control the movement of 'arms' that hold the 3D printing pen, while a third motor manages the vertical lifting of these arms. Arduino code controls the motors using a coordinate system for precise movement.

01. Technology + Coding

02. Machine Making Process

I build a moving machine to demonstrate the operating logic and how surprise mode works.

03. AI Analysis

Since the app leverages AI for ideation and suggestions, I utilized ChatGPT to test its capability in generating creative ideas and recommendations.

04. APP Design

Low-fi Sketches

Catering towards four flows

- Sketchbook & AI Explore

- Creating the design & Start Print

- Surprise Mode

- Forum & Parent help

Mid-fidelity planning

Sketchbook + AI Explore

Effortlessly capture and develop your ideas anytime, anywhere with an intuitive sketchbook. Leverage AI to refine and enhance details for a more polished outcome.

Final Solution

Design + Print

Design seamlessly on your phone, connect to your printer, and bring your ideas to life. Easily import, modify or create your own designs. Once printing starts, you can relax, multitask, or get creative as your vision takes shape.

Surprise Mode

Activate Surprise Mode to unlock creativity and embrace the unexpected. The 3D printer will modify parts of your model, opening the door to fresh designs and endless possibilities.

Forum + Parent Help

Explore the forum to upload your creations, browse thousands of inspiring posts.

If students get stuck, the help section for parents offers guidance on how to support their journey.

05. Product Design Process

Sketches: I selected keywords and objects that symbolize creativity, such as 'breakthroughs,' 'enlightenment,' and 'moments of illumination.' Using these concepts, I created several product sketches inspired by these ideas.