AURA:
Scent the memory
AURA is an exploration of combining smart design and rich technology to craft an innovative concept and feasible business solution. I strive to deliver a memorable and emotional experience by connecting people through senses of smell on a digital platform. I designed and developed a software prototype with a hardware prototype using interactive design principles. AURA brings a fun and exciting experience not only through scents but also through a lush, ethereal visual experience.
Concept
AURA is a social networking app providing a solution for people that would like to collect, mix and share scents. When designing this app I followed the concept that physical distance should not prevent us from feeling close to those we care about. AURA is an innovative idea that will connect people in a new and exciting way.
Background
In the modern era, people experience social and emotional connections through new digital mediums, but I have found that something crucial is missing, a sense that triggers our memory right away. I want to make scent digital, social and exciting. AURA is a unique product that enables people to collect, mix and share scents with people.
Testing Results
Too many tasks on one page, confusing users on what to do Icons are not clear enough
Conclusion
Need to break down a big task into smaller tasks, giving better instructions on each page; Build a consistent visual system, including icons and different tasks etc
Key Changes
Based on target audience research, a large number of people show interest in seeing data visualization rather than image display, thus I decided to replace image display with data visualization. AURA provides users a different experience purely based on scent and text descriptions, allowing users to imagine the story behind the scent itself.
Visual Design
Visually compelling animations using modern and fun color palettes to entertain users while experiencing scents. Using fun and animated color waves to mimic scent movements.
Hardware Ideation
I sketched a bunch of variations of the look of the hardware. My goal is to keep it simple and modern. 3D prototype model design using Tinkercad.
Final Prototype
1st aura prototype made with a 3D printer. Available in different colors and finishes.
Technical Aspect
Bluetooth connects the app with the device. A feasible circuit prototype.
