Empathy Park

Introduction

Today, industrialized countries are about to introduce a new data network standard - the 5G network. The areas of application seem almost limitless, because 5G means the transmission of huge amounts of data in real time. It is the promise of prosperity in the 21st century.

But the invisible magic also has its dark sides. The scientific community worldwide urgently warns against introducing the new standard uncritically. The radiation can have significant effects on biological organisms such as humans, animals and plants. As people who introduce this new standard, we also have a responsibility to those who cannot articulate and contradict. And as designers, we have a responsibility to the society and environment in which we live. And as designers we have a responsibility to the society and environment in which we live.

Concept

Radiation can neither be seen, heard nor haptically experienced. It cannot be tasted or smelled. Only physical consequences can be felt. Animals with their finely equipped sensory apparatus are particularly affected. Starting with the smallest ones like insects, amphibians and birds to mammals like beloved pets cat and dog.

Our concept pursues the goal of increasing people's empathy for the animal world. It is aimed at so-called decision makers. The Empathy Park is a place where people can experience on their own body what 5G radiation feels like for different species. Data is collected and mapped onto a map.

These maps, which are generated on the basis of data collection, enable experts to make an informed decision about where and how extensively the new standard can be introduced. The ultimate goal is to create an adequate basis for decision-making that leads to an environment worth living in for all beings.

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Methods & Approach

Once we had decided on the topic of radiation effects through 5G, we began to implement the concept through extensive visual research. We created a mood board in Figma on which we collected and selected visual models for different media, such as the posters, photo shoots, etc.

Once we had formulated the idea of an empathy helmet and determined the species we wanted to focus on, we got the plans for polygon masks. With the help of a fellow student from the 3D printing workshop, we had the great opportunity to have a 3D body scan done. We could then easily import the edited scans into Cura and print them on the FHP 3D printers (Creality Mini).

The next step was the two photo shoots. We photographed the poster models at Karl's Strawberry Farm to capture the atmosphere of a farm. The second photo shoot took place in the photo studio of FHP. Here we photographed the polygon masks and a miniature of the Empathy Park. In addition, we printed 3D architectural models.

The final step was to create the final versions of the photos, as well as the three posters and the explanatory pictures that visually represent the concept.

Design & Implementation

The empathy helmet is equipped with sensors for all five senses: head (touch), eyes (sight), nose (smell), mouth (taste), ears (hearing). 

Input is the 5G radiation and output is the disturbance of the five senses. Small hammers knock on the head, nozzles give off unpleasant smells to the nose, LEDs blind the eyes, small boxes send an unbearable beeping to the ears and taste nozzles spread an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

The empathy helmet is worn within the Empathy Park. The radiation is emitted in the whole park, in all buildings and rooms in various strengths. The user navigates through the park along his own well-being.

Sensor data from the helmet, as well as other sensors that can be optionally attached to the body, map the user's well-being or stress levels and map them to the map of the park. At the end of the process, a map is created that provides information about what radiation exposure is reasonable and what is not reasonable for the respective animal.

Evaluation

Above all, the project has shown that man is a sensual being and therefore the body matters. From the perspective of a future interface designer I understood why it is so often said that the interface does not necessarily have to be a pixel-based display.

Reflection

Through the intensive work on the project, I understood the importance of a well thought-out concept. Without a coherent concept in which the individual parts logically interlock, it is difficult to put individual elements in relation to each other.

Another insight for me is the enormous importance of visual models. It's much easier to work with a mood board that visually outlines the direction the project is going. For example, how well staged miniature photography looks like.

The extensive work with 3D printing technology was real fun and has become a permanent part of my visual expression repertoire.

And last but not least - without a high investment of time, no good overall visual result, even if the concept should be very good. Both belong together. It is banal, but now also part of my personal, emotional experience.