SenseSync

SenseSync is a groundbreaking communication device that converts text or digital content into precise patterns of vibrations.

Inspiration

A Research conducted by David M Eagleman shows Perceiving information through the skin using vibrotactile wearable devices can be beneficiary in a broad spectrum of applications for visual and/or hearing-impaired users by utilizing sensory substitution where a sensory modality e.g., vision or auditory is captured, processed and then transmitted to a user via vibrotactile stimuli. The research paper presents evidence supporting the hypothesis that arbitrary symbol-based messages transmitted using vibrotactile wearable .

What it does

SenseSync is a groundbreaking communication device that converts text or digital content into precise patterns of vibrations. Our highly adept brain excels at processing information and can extract meaning from these designated vibrations, which are delivered through specially designed gloves. These gloves have the remarkable ability to function with any type of input provided to them. However, for this particular project, we have chosen text as the primary input due to its ease of processing. By introducing SenseSync, we are opening up an unprecedented realm of possibilities for our brain to engage with the environment in entirely novel ways.

How we built it

In the initial stages, we had to determine the optimal body part to mount our device. After careful consideration, we unanimously chose the hands as the input interface, and our entire model would be housed within a glove. To tackle this challenging task, we relied on our trusted companion, Arduino, known for its convenience and user-friendly nature.

With the objective of assigning vibration patterns, we brainstormed extensively. Ultimately, we decided to adopt Braille as the primary language for output patterns on the skin. Leveraging Braille, an established and widely recognized language, facilitated our work significantly.

Next, we prepared the circuit by fixing the vibromotors onto a breadboard, which would then be connected to the Arduino. Once we ensured the readiness of our Arduino and circuit, we delved into coding the electronic components. Hours of diligent coding, testing, and refining our elegant lines of code ensued. To minimize the risk of potential mishaps, we initially simulated the code using software such as Tinkercad before executing it on the Arduino.

Subsequently, we meticulously soldered all connections, double-checked our lines of code, and secured our wiring. In the final stages, we conducted extensive testing to identify any remaining errors or flaws in the overall device. Only after confirming the flawless functionality of our masterpiece did we unveil the remarkable capabilities of our glove.

Now, our glove is primed and prepared to captivate audiences with its innovative features.

Challenges we ran into

Designing the Glove: One of the initial challenges was determining the best way to integrate the device into a glove while ensuring comfort, flexibility, and ease of use. It required careful consideration of the placement and arrangement of components to achieve an optimal user experience.

Arduino Programming: Although Arduino is known for its user-friendly nature, coding the device to accurately convert text into specific patterns of vibrations presented its own challenges. It required a deep understanding of the Arduino platform, as well as expertise in programming techniques to ensure the desired output.

Vibration Pattern Mapping: Deciding how to map the text or digital content to the specific vibration patterns was another significant challenge. The team had to brainstorm and experiment with various methods to accurately represent the information in a meaningful and understandable way through vibrations.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Opening New Possibilities for Human-Environment Interaction: Introducing SenseSync as a communication device opens up new possibilities for human interaction with the environment. This accomplishment is significant as it paves the way for novel ways of perceiving and interacting with digital information, offering a unique and enhanced sensory experience.

What we learned

So many things in really diverse many domains :)

What's next for SenseSync

Enhance the compactness of this device while expanding its capability to accommodate diverse input types, including visual input instead of text.

References

References: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3epJuzVfvgc

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/278794632 Using space and time to encode vibrotactile information toward an estimate of the skin%27s achievable throughput

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330729026 Background Perception and Comprehension of Symbols Conveyed through Vibrotactile Wearable Displays