Lab+7

__**Lab #7 - Physical Computing, Tangible Bits, and Different Prototype Methods for Authoring Devices **__

** Define the term ‘Physical Computing’ **

Physical computing takes the physical world and changes it into bits. It interacts with the built world through the use of sensors. In essence, physical computing makes the intangible, tangible.

For example, motion is intangible. However, through physical computing, someone can monitor and record motion using a computer. Motion may be measured in wavelengths, which can allow the experimenter to visualize movement easily.

Quick movements can be represented in small wavelengths while more legato movements can be measured in longer wavelengths. To do this, an accelerometer is used to respond to movement. The various movements of the accelerometer is depicted and represented on a computer.

Physical computing also changes the visual representation of data. It allows us to understand people relationship’s in relation to computers. The study of motion through an accelerometer can allow people to develop new technologies that can benefit humanity while allowing humanity to understand the intangible.

 **Reflective Physical Prototypes & Authoring Sensor-based Interactions by Demonstration **

__Reflective Physical Prototypes __

The prototypic method involves a small LCD screen, an accelerometer, and the d.tools’ hardware kit. He uses the accelerometer to determine thresholds. This will allow the designer to determine an appropriate motion that can be used to control and navigate the handheld GPS.

The prototype is enabled to allow a user to navigate through Google Maps by using motion. If the user tilts the device to the right, the map will navigate to the right. The same is done if the user tilts the device to the left. The device is able to sense the user’s movement and respond to it accordingly.

__Authoring Sensor-based Interactions by Demonstration __  The prototypic method involves a 3D accelerometer and a compatible hardware interface. He uses the accelerometer to measure movement. He can determine an appropriate threshold as to when the left and right helmet blinkers should begin to flash.

The prototype is enabled to allow a user to use his/her head movement to activate a left/right turn signal in a bicycle helmet. The Exemplar program also allows designers to use two sensors simultaneously. This is beneficial if one action can only occur based on the result of another action.