Strands: An investigation into the narrative of our connections
by Vincent Tsang
Quintet consists of 5 key components; the Speaker + Screen, camera, microphone, pendant and charging base
The Speaker + Base is made from responsibly sourced Hydrowood, salvaged from the rivers of Western Tasmania.
Abstract
The notion of distraction is so pervasive that our current technological epoch can be simply described as The Age of Distraction. While supposedly connecting us, social media services distract us from the most important people around us, as they use an attention-based business model; this means that these services have not been designed with our best interests in mind. With phenomena such as cancel culture and fake news causing huge cultural hysteria, companies like Facebook have had to consider the social implications of their design decisions.
Moreover, the disconnect between the design of the hardware and software creates user confusion and uncertainty, resulting in phenomena such as when a user is unsure if their microphone has been muted, as well as the common practice of covering webcams.
With the belief that design decisions which consider human interests can cause a positive impact on society, this project looked to see how digital connections could be deepened through conversations. Led by a design research approach, the project aimed to create a proof of concept case study that would have a positive influence on the digital communications industry.
“While supposedly connecting us, social media services distract us from the most important people around us, as they use an attention-based business model; this means that these services have not been designed with our best interests in mind.”
All aesthetic decisions were governed by the intention to create a familiar and homely experience.
Design Intent
Quintet is a communications device focused on removing technological barriers in order to ensure deeper conversations. It is a new approach to video calling focused on embracing the qualities of natural, face-to-face conversation. Aesthetically, Quintet is technology aligned with lifestyle, which requires a device that is familiar, playful and does not scream technology. Consisting of five key components, each module plays a role in ensuring a high level of control. Common mistakes with video calling, such as forgetting to unmute microphones and activate cameras, are now tactile actions, simply by attaching or removing the respective modules.
As the speaker base is generally stationary, the pendant becomes a wearable extension, alerting the user of incoming calls through sounds, haptic vibrations, and pulsing lights. Additionally, squeezing the pendant during a call will activate emotive gestures, which will be translated into a combination of haptic pulse vibrations and a sustained glow, to communicate nonverbal signals such as “I’m listening, and I understand you”.
“It is a new approach to video calling focused on embracing the qualities of natural, face-to-face conversation.”
The Pendant becomes the extension of the speaker + screen
The Camera and microphone are out of sight hidden in the lower compartment of the wireless charging base ensuring privacy and peace of mind
The rear of Quintet, showing the volume control feature
Bio
Vincent Tsang is an Honours Product Design Student at the University of Technology Sydney after graduating from a Bachelor of Design in Product Design in 2019.
With an ever-growing awareness of current day societal issues and a passion for sustainable design, Vincent strives to approach issues with a deep curiosity, and a drive to create solutions that are delightful. When working on various projects, collaboratively and independently, Vincent likes to take deep dives into research, engaging with the niche, and gathering sources from the unconventional.
When Vincent isn’t designing, he keeps a pulse on current day trends. He is also a curious observer and is always excited by good design that is present in everyday life.
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