They should consider focusing on one or two specific senses to enhance through the mask, which will allow for a more detailed and targeted design. Additionally, they need to think about the comfort and usability for a diverse range of users, making sure it’s practical for long-term wear.

Leading questions for direction (to help enhance the design/concept)

Concept/shape

• Which specific senses does the mask improve, and how does it accomplish this?
• Is the mask designed for specific situations (e.g., outdoor use, night vision, assisting the visually impaired)?
• What are the primary user groups for this mask (e.g., people with disabilities, professionals needing heightened senses, general users seeking enhancement)?
• What do the colors, textures, and patterns on the mask represent?

Functionality 

• How would someone put on and remove the mask? Does it require straps, or does it attach in another way?
• Does the mask require any external power source or batteries? If so, how are they integrated into the design?
• Are there safety features or considerations for the user, especially if the mask augments senses in a potentially overwhelming way?
• What materials would you ideally use to build this mask to make it comfortable and functional?
• Are there existing technologies (such as sensors or microcontrollers) that you envision incorporating to enhance senses like hearing, sight, or smell?
• If you were to add one more sensory enhancement, which would you add and why?
• Does the mask incorporate any form of feedback for the user, such as vibration or sound, to alert them of changes in their surroundings?

My recommendations:

Targeted Sensory Enhancements:

• Hearing: Consider incorporating directional microphones or bone conduction technology to enhance auditory input. This could allow users to focus on specific sounds while filtering out background noise.
• Sight: Use adjustable lenses or augmented reality (AR) elements to provide enhanced visual clarity or information overlays, particularly for users with visual impairments.

  • Night Vision: Integrate low-light cameras or infrared sensors to assist with night vision, potentially using a display that presents this information to the user.

User Group Focus:

• Identify a specific group, such as individuals with visual impairments or professionals (e.g., first responders, outdoor enthusiasts), and tailor the design to their needs. For instance, a mask designed for visually impaired users might focus on tactile feedback and sound cues.

Functionality

•  Attachment Method: Explore various methods for securing the mask, such as adjustable straps, magnetic attachments, or a helmet-like design for stability.

• Use lightweight, breathable materials for comfort, such as mesh fabrics for the inner lining and flexible plastics or silicone for the outer structure. Consider hypoallergenic materials for sensitive skin.

Prototyping:

• Experiment with different attachment methods using cardboard strips to simulate adjustable straps or a helmet-like design. This will help in assessing the stability and fit of the mask. 
• Use colored transparent sheets to create different texture for the mask (eyes part)

Resources

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KVP0md_seo0
• https://sek.nuvustudio.com/projects/114402-07-low-fidelity-prototyping-wearable-cardboard-mock-ups/tabs/108211-resources

The use of strings and springs connected to the leg for control is clever. This cyborg thumb design demonstrates a solid understanding of engineering fundamentals and shows empathy for users with limited hand strength.The student created clear, detailed diagrams showing movement and functionality, effectively illustrating how the mechanism works. The project has the potential to serve a broad audience, including people with disabilities and those looking for enhanced grip. However, focusing on a specific user group is recommended, as this would allow for a more targeted, detailed design that meets the unique needs of that group effectively.

Leading questions for direction (to help enhance the design/concept)

Concept/shape

• What specific activities or tasks do you envision users accomplishing with this cyborg thumb?
• Have you considered how easy it would be for users to put on and remove the cyborg thumb? Could the shape or attachment method be adjusted to make it more user-friendly?

Functionality 

• Could there be a locking mechanism to hold the thumb in place once it grips something, allowing the user to rest their leg without losing the grip?
• How comfortable is it to use over long periods? Would adding padding to the attachment point on the leg improve comfort?
• Have you thought about making the thumb detachable for easy storage or transport? 
• What materials are you considering for the thumb and strings if this was to be built in the future ? 
• Could there be a safety release mechanism if the spring or string pulls too hard to prevent potential injury?
• Could this design eventually be adapted to work with electric motors or sensors to make it easier to operate without needing to pull with the leg?

Ideas for Prototyping

• https://sek.nuvustudio.com/posts/1013031-mechanisms
• https://sek.nuvustudio.com/projects/114402-07-low-fidelity-prototyping-wearable-cardboard-mock-ups/tabs/134119-example

The student has a clear understanding of the concept: a self-moving chair powered by a motor. They mention that it is designed to help people with limited mobility, like Stephen Hawking, showing empathy and a sense of purpose. This connection to the chosen theme of accessibility is meaningful and relevant.The sketches effectively convey the main components, such as the motor, main body, recliner, and propulsion system. These are labeled and provide a solid foundation for moving into prototyping. The overall clarity of the sketches is good. Good writing as well.

Leading questions for direction (to help enhance the design/concept)

Concept/shape

• How often would the chair be used? 
• Would it be for home, school, or public spaces?
• Why did you choose this particular shape? Would a different shape make it more comfortable or easier to use?
• Have you thought about adding any cultural or artistic elements to make it feel personalized or inviting?
• Why did you choose this particular shape and size for the chair?
• What would you change if the chair was used outdoors—how would the wheels or base need to be adjusted?
• Have you thought of adding a storage compartment under the seat for personal items?

Functionality 

• Have you considered what materials could be used to build the prototype? And in real life what would it be made of?
• Have you thought about how the motor will be powered? Will it be battery-operated or plug-in?
• Could the chair have lights or reflective material to increase visibility in low-light conditions?Could you add LED lights for safety or design purposes?
• Have you thought about adding a sensor that stops the chair if there’s an obstacle in the way?
• Would rechargeable or swappable batteries make it more user-friendly?
• How could you redesign the chair’s arms to make it easier for someone to get in and out?
• What if you included armrests that could fold up or down based on the user's needs?

Visuals

• Have you thought about creating a storyboard or diagram showing how a person might use the chair in everyday life?