Explicit Technology
exploring real users mental models alongside actual function
Plug Radio
RCA
2004
This technological object is an exploration into a different way of presenting mental models to users. The object uses a physical metaphor that describes, rather than obscures, the underlying functionality.
Domestic Interface
RCA
2003
This project explores one leisurely function and the interface it might have. Using a textile sensor as an input for locating touch, a soft interface for the living room that reflects the casual and imprecise nature of the area and activity was designed.
Reflection
inciting reflection of the individual or their environment
Tools
for Self-Communication
RCA
2004
These tools for self-communication provide us with opportunities to have a conversation with ourselves and, in doing so, listen to ourselves.
Could these objects be a modern form of meditation?
Transparent Consumption
RCA
2004
Reintroducing accountability to urban consumption.
Liminal Door
RCA
2004
The front door is a point where a change in human behaviour takes place. Five composite photographs illustrate a reaction to the alteration of one of the front door’s intrinsic properties.
New
Loo
RCA
2002
Rethink the toilet
The toilet as a refuge both in the private home and in public space.
Awareness
visceral understanding of another as mediated by technology
Aura
MLE
2005
Aura is a prototype background communication device that aims to create a sense of emotional presence between two people who are separated by space or time. This complex project addresses intimacy, sexuality, biometric data collection, representation and mapping to name a few issues.
Sustainability
environmental impact and product life cycle
Transparent Consumption
RCA
2004
Reintroducing accountability to urban consumption.
Bio-Cycle
NCAD
2001
Vermi-Composting Unit; recycle organic waist in the domestic kitchen using worms.
Service Design
services supported and inspired by technology for people
Beet:feet
RCA
2002
A mobile ad hoc collaborative system that allows for 'in the moment' improvisation. By sharing the rhythms in which people immerse themselves as they walk down the road. A collaborative journey is created.
Tailored
Communication
RCA
2003
A service that allows people to comunicate as they wish, bridging the gap between generations and the method of communication that they prefer.
UA.Corp
RCA
2002
unusual
acts of ...
UNUSUAL ACTS is an agency that specializes in increasing information exchange.
It provides unusual acts that penetrate the routine of the users that
participate in the networks, thus provoking users to increase communication
across the network and thus creating more revenue.
Line
2
RCA
2002
A service for the city... With stress and isolation in cities mounting, life coaching has become popular. Line 2 is a problem solving service that is delivered through the public transport system.
Flight Kit #207b
RCA
2002
The Flight Kit provides people with the shared collaborative experience through flight. Individually numbered kits are sent to users via the post and contain the elements required to assemble three tissue-paper balloons.
Process
experimentation and evaluation
Drawing
Machine
RCA
2002
Design a drawing machine in three stages.
Rear
View
RCA
2002
When asked to think about the experience surrounding the car we focused on the non-driver. As passengers we are expected to sit quietly. Two alternative scenarios are presented.
Party
Pieces
RCA
2004
As each experience is subjective it has been suggested that open or ambiguous objects will allow for richer experiences. By presenting objects at a lower level of ‘finished-ness’ the object is open to be used in the way the user prefers. Six individuals were invited to a party and given experimental objects.
Phantasmagorical
Machine for Shoes
RCA
2002
Automate the process of buying a pair of shoes.
Intrigued by early mechanical machines of the industrial revolution we went about creating an arcade shoe shop of the type that might blend in on Brighton pier or it's equivalent. It provides simple, one style and personal shoes.
industrial and product design
Plug
Radio
RCA
2004
This technological object is an exploration into a different way of presenting mental models to users. The object uses a physical metaphor that describes, rather than obscures, the underlying functionality.
Partition
NCAD
2000
A room partition that encourages circulation and has storage.
Solas,
angel lamp
NCAD
1999
Redesigned angle poise lamp. The lamp uses taught elastic to provide light at any angle desired.
Grolsch
Identity
NCAD
2000
Branded glass for Grolsch beverage brand. The beverage's quality and links to tradition are reflected in this unique glass.
Script
Pad
NCAD
2001
Writing device for the visually impaired and elderly.
Apple
Tree
NCAD
1998
An educational toy that describes the cyclical nature of the seasons.
Gerontechnology
designing technology inclusively for +65
Script
Pad
NCAD
2001
Writing device for the visually impaired and elderly.
Tailored
Communication
RCA
2003
A service that allows people to comunicate as they wish, bridging the gap between generations and the method of communication that they prefer.
Plug
Radio
RCA
2004
This technological object is an exploration into a different way of presenting mental models to users. The object uses a physical metaphor that describes, rather than obscures, the underlying functionality.
© Aoife Ní Mhóráin 2005