Process

The project employs a variety of hardware and fabrication techniques to materialize the concept of a 'mobile phone interface for Bitcoin mining'. The intermediate development of this project (left) involves using a central LED lamp to serve as the primary functionality of the smart home object, which remains consistent during the second iteration (right).

Visualizing the project in 3D modeling space was exceptionally helpful, it helps with speculating both design thinking and physical considerations/constraints that determine workflow for fabrication down the road.  

Intermediate digital prototype (left), Remastered digital prototype (right)

On the other hand, the project is amplified with a physical interface that intrigues participants to place their mobile devices - outlining the shape with a cellphone with an embedded proximity sensor that detects the placement and duration. 

As peripheral inferences, the project also uses a LED strip and a LED ring to, highlight the placement location of the user's mobile device; while signifying the current status of the device through varying colors and brightness of the LED. It is note-worthy that the central LED light generates a lot of heat during operation, which is technically harmless for other electronic components, but it is hot enough to degrade some of the laminations used in assembly. Using a heatsink to help with distribution of heat is critical for this purpose. 

The device is also equipped with a TFT for text prompts for leading the user through the interaction. Users will be able to see the screen showing 'place your mobile device for illumination' once they arrive at the designated scene.  Combined with the LED lighting effects indicating the status of the device, the project sought to create a cohesive experience for participants. 

A servo motor is also embedded within the device; leveraging its acoustic effect running at varying speeds to simulate the unsettling noise caused by 'Bitcoin mining' in the background. The motor noise comes in at different pitches when it's running at different speeds/directions, which is an ideal reflection of the degree of 'battery life' from the participant's mobile device - sizzling in the background and causing the participant to panic.