Overview
Utterslev AR is a prototype of a mobile AR experience with the theme of climate fiction.
With the help of Augmented reality (AR) it has the purpose to visualize what kind of consequences sewage discharge could have for the environment in the area of Utterslev Mose in Denmark, but also show what kind of possibilities it has for a greener future.
Read more about the concept, the process and/or try it for yourself here: https://projectclimatefiction.wordpress.com/designkonceptet/
My Role: UX/UI designer & developer
Tools: Blender, Unity, Vuforia, Adobe Illustrator & Adobe XD
Programming language: C#
Actions: Research, Analysis, Prototyping, User testing, Pitching, 3D modelling, Concept development & Programming
Duration: 6 Months part-time (Jan - June 2021)
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The Concept
The final application concept shows the contrasts between utopian and dystopian scenarios in the years of 2026, 2036 and 2046. Virtual objects are placed on a physical paper map with the help of AR. The objects show how the environment are destroyed by continued emissions, but also how wastewater can be used in hydroponic cultivation systems and for heat extraction.
Information are conveyed through stories related to the objects, told by fictional people from the future to make emotional engagement. The stories are interactive and you can choose to listen or just read.
Concept video
Video that shows some of the final prototype in its context. After the making of the film I also added audio such as speech, and simplified the 3D objects and texts, based on user tests.
The reason
For many years, waste water from sewers has been released into water environments in Denmark. Wastewater that, among other things, contains large amounts of phosphorus, metals and bacteria. Quantities that can cause serious damage to the ecological state and spread diseases that affect both humans and animals. On the other hand, wastewater does not only have to be harmful. If it is handled correctly, it has great potential for a greener future.
The final design concept is based on the UN's global goal 6, about improving water quality, sewage treatment and safe reuse of water. To reach the goal, and encourage change, information about the problem is needed.
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Background
The task was to design an experience-based service that offer the possibility to explore future changes in a specific location on Earth in an AR format. The service had to convey conceivable environmental changes caused by nature and man, together or individually with the help of augmented reality. The AR had to be staged on a paper-based map.
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Concept Development
Based on thedesign brief, a feasibility study was done where I did researching about the areas Augmented Reality and Climate fiction. I used brainstorming to generate different ideas I had about the theme.
Two areas caught my interest: "Self-produced food" and "Water as a threat or opportunity". Based on these areas, I designed two design concepts related to the requirements of the design brief. Two concepts were used to not limit ideas and further exploration.
Idea 1, page 1
Idea 1, page 2
Idea 2, page 1
Idea 2, page 2
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The First Prototypes
The next step was to create an understanding of the context of use and the requirements.
For me, it was important to familiarize myself with the software, to gain an understanding of what is actually possible. The software in this case was Blender for 3D modeling and Unity and Vuforia for the AR mechanics.
In the sprint, I went through several iterations regarding the design concepts where I used both analog and digital tools. Based on exploration and iterations, three simple prototypes were designed for specific functionalities in the two concepts.
Paper prototype
Parts of the paper prototype
Paper prototype in fixed path, focus on functionality
Digital prototype - UI & Interactions
Digital prototype - AR & 3D models
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External Monitoring
To anchor the concept in reality, I talked to potential users and read several research articles about the area to get a real and scientific basis. The focus was in the area of AR, but also about the problems and possibilities of sewage water in relation to the climate. I also focused on investigating various ethical dilemmas with the application, and how to avoid them.
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Final Prototype Development
Based on the previous sprints, I developed the final prototype. Through an iterate process, I created 3D objects in Blender and implemented them in Unity for the application development. I also added AR functionality with the plug in Vuforia.
An illustrated map was created. The map is a direct replica of the real area but with my own visual style and with the AR functionality in focus (such as high contrasts).
Lastly, I added audio for speech and the interface of the app. I also implemented the interactive stories.
Final map design with trigger points
3D modelling in Blender
3D objects on map in Unity
UI interface in Unity
