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Objectives

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The goal of this task was to design a device which evokes JOY. It is important to consider the context in which this device operates in and  how someone would or could interact with it. 

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Development

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Nsoul is designed to introduce this way of thinking into your life through practice. The shoe inserts monitor your heart rate and when a spike occurs, send a gentle vibration to alert you to how you’re feeling. This tickling sensation also creates a positive emotional response, and helps you gain control over unconscious reactions like anger so you can better choose how to act. Since there are situations where an elevated heart rate is normal, Nsoul can be easily deactivated so as not to distract you. It also connects with third-party apps like calendars, weather, and GPS location, helping it make decisions about whether or not to alert you. For example, if a driver dangerously swerves in front of you, you wouldn’t want a distracting alert. At the end of the day, the app will ask you to reflect on the day’s events and your emotions so both Nsoul and you can learn more about those situations and your responses. Like everything, Nsoul is only in your life temporarily. When you gain the ability to find serenity over impatience or anger, you won’t need it anymore. So you can send the device back to be cleaned and reused by someone else. This makes it more environmentally sustainable, and reminds you that you’re not alone in becoming a more joyful person.

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