Industrial
Children spend more time with electronic media, like television, video games, and the internet, than any other activity outside of sleeping! My research explored how technology and gamification can be used in classrooms to engage kids in physical activity. This resulted in developing a system that can transform any classroom space into an interactive, movement-charged learning environment. This is AIR System.
Introducing AIR System, an AUGMENTED, INTERACTIVE, and RESPONSIVE system. It was designed to provide teachers with the equipment and time to incorporate physical activity within the classroom.
The AIR drone is the heart of the system. The drone can be controlled by an app. From there it will operate autonomously, using sensors and safety algorithms to navigate the classroom and run active lessons.
The drone has a small high resolution projector, located in the ‘mouth’ to display the interfaces. Along with two cameras placed in the ‘eyes’, a vision camera used for filming, and an infrared camera that can track children’s movements to create interactive elements.There is also a bluetooth speaker inside the drone body that can provide audio alongside the projection. Lights have also been added to the bottom of the drone which can change its colour. The anthropomorphic design elements will encourage children to use the system.
The app allows teachers to operate the system. Teachers can name their drone, select locations, choose lessons and run interactive them, all from the app. This makes it quick and easy for teachers to provide physical activity within the curriculum content.
Here are some examples of the interactive interfaces that can have been designed to engage children in physical activity whilst they learn in the classroom. These interfaces will be projected by the AIR Drone.
The AIR drone is designed to be used alongside the ceiling mounted docking stations and a rail tether safety system. An example layout of the system is shown below.
The docking stations hold the drone in place and charge it using electromagnetic technology. The connection point to the docking station is at the back of the drone. This allows the drone to be tilted. The arm is made of three components that can allow custom configurations. The height of the arm can be raised, lowered or rotated to achieve the best projection.
To ensure safety, the drone is connected before it takes flight to a tether system. The safety tether will move to the selected location near the docking station.
Dannielle is an Industrial Design Honours student at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Her interests are in UX/UI and Systems Design. She values design thinking, creativity and taking the perspectives of users.