Module 3 Activity Research

Weekly Activity Template

Morgan Danendra Inderadjajanata

Project 3

Module 3

Module 3 focused on refining my physical computing prototype through targeted testing, material exploration, and user-focused iteration. Building on the foundation from Module 2, I began separating the LED and pressure sensor from the breadboard so they could be integrated into a handheld form. This required experimenting with different wiring methods, testing multiple casing materials, and addressing issues related to sensor stability and light diffusion. The main goal in this module was to improve the usability of the interaction and move closer to a functional Stress Stone by evaluating how the components behaved in conditions that simulated the final product. Through material tests, wiring adjustments, and iterative problem-solving, Module 3 allowed me to understand what works, what does not, and what still needs improvement as I move toward a more resolved prototype.

Workshop 1

testing how light shines through plastic

Workshop 2

Activity 1: My Research

Activity 2: My Research

testing how the pressure sensor works through tissue

testing how the pressure sensor works through cotton

testing how the pressure sensor works through paper

testing how the pressure sensor works through plastic

taking out the resistor so the LED can shine brighter through the materials

Additional Research or Workshops

the LED won't light up when the only use 1 wire for the ground

Due to the cocrodile clips touching, the led needs an insulator divider to light up

first wire needed, crocodile clip to female jumper lead

Second wire needed, crocodile clip to male jumper lead

The leg of the sensor won't stay in the female jumper lead, so I used tape to secure it so it can be undone and reuse later

Project 3

Project 3 Final Prototype

The final prototype of the Stress Stone is a working proof-of-concept that demonstrates the core interaction of the project. It consists of a pressure sensor and a single LED embedded inside a soft, translucent tissue casing. When the user squeezes the object, the pressure sensor detects the force and increases the LED brightness, creating a gentle glow that responds to touch. The internal components are connected to an external Arduino, which processes the input and controls the light output. Although the casing is temporary, the prototype successfully captures the intended experience of a calming, responsive object that reacts to pressure. The testing completed throughout this module confirms that the interaction is reliable, the light diffusion is visually soothing, and the chosen materials support the emotional purpose of the Stress Stone.