Visual Design, Interaction Design, and Tangible Media

Description
A custom input device, worn on the fingertip, solves a problem inherent in the usage of Wacom tablets.

The Problem
When switching between mousing with the Wacom pen and typing, the intermediate act of replacing/retrieving the pen from its stand is awkward and non-ergonomic.

This is ironic, since many choose to use Wacom tablets because of their good ergonomics, in general.

User-Centred Design
My target user, Camille, is afflicted with carpal tunnel syndrome; this Wacom problem negatively affects her condition.

Involving her in the design process, we agreed that a fingertip-mounted Wacom pen might be a good solution.

Form 1
A paper model of a possible ring design.

The length of this ring's "nail", can be adjusted according to its wearer's preference.

Form 2
A functional prototype was constructed from a disassembled Wacom pen. The pen's tip was surgically removed from the pen and reconnected via a series of long wires.

Video
To convey a sense of the interaction, a film was produced of prototype in use.

Download a video summarising this design process: user observation, proposed interaction, and functional prototype in use.



Skills used: electronics, film making, model making (paper & jewelry), video ethnography, Adobe Premiere