Laser Harp 2002

Introduction:Purpose and Scope

• Electronic musical toy, not an instrument

• Uses laser beams instead of strings

• Teaching capability

Laser Harp 2002

Laser Harp: Users

• Children: ages 6-14

• English speaking

• No previous musical background required

Laser Harp 2002

Features and Benefits

• Free play mode– More fun for kids– Easier to pluck than string

• Learn mode– Good introduction to music– Fun and interactive verbal

communication– Provides ability to learn through

observation and repetition

Laser Harp 2002

Applied HCI Principles(1)

• Conceptual Model

• Affordances

• Natural Mapping

Laser Harp 2002

Applied HCI Principles(2)

• Visibility

• State

• Feedback

Laser Harp 2002

Laser Harp: Design Stages

• Storyboard

• Flash prototype

• Alpha prototype

• Beta prototype

Laser Harp 2002

Laser Harp: Evolution of Interface

• Green LEDs • Add a volume button • Label the learning mode button: “Learn

Song: Jingle Bells” • Put the name of the toy on the system• Change to a more pleasant message when

you miss a note• Increase the space between the strings

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Laser Harp 2002

• Use an ON/OFF toggle button to accommodate automatic power off

• Draw lines to show separation between notes

• Edit the sound files to improve looping

• 2nd phidget, PCBs, dual labelling

Laser Harp: Evolution of Interface

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Laser Harp 2002

Laser Harp: Conclusions

• User testing: early and often

• User-centered iterative design process

• HCI principles: good guidelines

Laser Harp 2002

Laser Harp: The Team