Zenflow
Product & Interaction Design
Emotion-Centered UX
Assistive Design
ZenFlow is a breath visualization device I designed for anxiety patients, inspired by my own experiences with anxiety symptoms last year, where I often felt rapid breathing. To manage these symptoms, I focused on my breathing and its emotional cues.
This sparked my interest in mental health and self-regulation, particularly meditation and Zen. ZenFlow's design draws from "Zen" and "Flow" in Eastern philosophy. Zen represents inner peace, while Flow symbolizes the natural rhythm (water) of breathing. The device uses dynamic wave images that change with the user's breathing rate. By observing these waves, users can adjust their breathing, alleviating anxiety and finding inner calm.
Team
Solo
Role
Product Designer
Timeline
June 2024 – Aug 2024
Tool Used
Project Context
Personal Exploration
Background Research
Decide the Analog Input
I aimed to design an installation driven by respiratory biofeedback, exploring Arduino-based analog inputs such as a gyroscope to detect abdominal movement during breathing and a microphone for sound-based respiration sensing.
I finally chose Microphone since it has stable and clear readings. Nano is too sensitive and difficult to control.
Sensor Test
To make the installation more immersive, I explored adding a trigger using sensors such as a photoresistor or an ultrasonic sensor.
I finally chose Ultrasonic Sensor since it offers stable, versatile operation; Photoresistor exhibited unstable environmental response.
Technical Diagram
Research on Physical Prototype
1. Physical Exploration
Pepper's Ghost is an illusion technique used in theater and haunted houses to create the appearance of ghostly figures by reflecting images off a transparent surface.
2. My Decision
I chose Pepper's Ghost for my installation because:
• Captivating illusions and hologram-like effects
• Help distract and soothe individuals experiencing anxiety
3. Pepper's Ghost Projection Test
Before assembling the model, I conducted a Pepper's Ghost projection experiments to ensure it would function properly.
Product Concept Sketches
I drew inspiration from the design of old antique telephones. Based on their structure, I created several sketches depicting how my installation will look.
Low-Fidelity Prototype
I chose the 5th form from my sketches and constructed a prototype.
To avoid this issue, I decided to place the microphone on the side of the installation so that its wires wouldn’t get tangled. I ultimately chose the 4th option.
Microphone Concept Sketches
I sketched nine microphone designs and brainstormed additional elements. I favored a flashlight-shaped design but found it didn't match my device after creating a prototype.
I chose the triangle shape as the final decision.
Final Installation Sketch
Based on previous design prototypes, here’s my final sketch. It includes all the installation structure and the microphone design.
Interaction Diagram
Based on previous design prototypes, here’s my final sketch. It includes all the installation structure and the microphone design.
Visualization Process in Touch Designer
1. Visual Research
During my portfolio research, I discovered that the water sound, known for their calming effect, align with the principles of Zen philosophy – emphasizing presence, tranquility, and inner peace.
2. Design the Interface Flow in Touch Designer
I created a motion interface flow in TouchDesigner to plan the visual transitions. Each frame illustrates how the breathing data transforms into dynamic waves, guiding the overall rhythm and emotional tone of the visualization.
Touch Designer & Coding Screenshots
Final Output
Final Video
Next Step
I hope that ZenFlow can be used for patients in a vegetative state in the future. These patients still breathe and may have some level of awareness. By detecting and visualizing their breathing patterns, ZenFlow could help communicate their state of mind and provide insights into their consciousness and thoughts. This capability could be a breakthrough in understanding and connecting with patients who are otherwise unable to express themselves.