2021
Space Oddity
A tangible interface connecting hardware and screen
{tangible interaction, physical computing, interface design, sensor systems, creative coding, fabrication}
Overview
Turning physical controls into screen interaction
Space Oddity is a tangible interface that turns physical controls into a screen-based space exploration experience. Instead of using a conventional mouse or keyboard, users interact with a custom-built controller to control different aspects of the on-screen spaceship.
Developed as a two-person project, we each designed two sensor-based interactions and worked together on the visual direction. The project explored how physical input could make a digital interface more direct, playful, and embodied.
Development
Designing the physical interface
We designed the controller around the physical dimensions of the hardware, measuring the components and planning their placement within the control box. I also developed the line art used for laser engraving on the case, translating the digital interface into physical details on the controller.
The interaction was built around four different sensor inputs, with each of us developing two sensor interactions and connecting them to the on-screen experience. We also worked together to select and develop the visual assets that responded to the different physical controls.
