We have made some critical modifications in terms of code. In fact, since the last entry we’ve altered the syntactical arrangement of iKu575 almost entirely. Instead of calibrating the range of sensor mins and max, we’ve determined the various limits through debugging and experimentation. We’ve additionally employed the functions of ‘if/else’ and ‘for’ statements to control the multiple lines of the haiku. With this approach, the only constraints are the lack of poetic selection (i.e. the variety of end haiku results). Essentially, the ‘random’ function which would ideally generate a random sequence of haiku lines cannot be applied in this case.
Aside from the technical matters, we’ve considered some potential design specifications for the wearable interface. Specifically, we have reflected on the possibilities of embedding the system within a suit jacket or hat in order to formalize our design values and physically make them more visible. Ideally, we want iKu575 to exude an aesthetic appeal or somehow make a cultural reference to artistic expression in augmented digital/physical realities. Voytek, mentioned presenting the device in the form of a beret, stereotypically identifying the user as an artist or poet (Of course, I love this for its pretentiousness). In last week’s class, Professor Ratto also suggested a ‘tuxedo’, which nicely compliments the eloquence of creating poetry. Whatever the case, these kinds of specifics would further contextualize the utility associated with the device by providing metadata on the user.
Finally, Latour’s (2008) philosophical account on “A Cautious Prometheus…” was quite inspirational in this matter (Indeed, he is just too fabulous). To briefly summarize, he explains design as an extension or reconfiguration of technological functionality granted that its subjective, recursive and symbolic implications are advantageous in craftsmanship and scientific meaning-making. In essence, this theory gave us insight on the ‘naturalization’ of technology in a social environment that combines physical attributes with artificial intelligence; and so the challenge continues…
