VIRTUAL: Learning. Life. Work.
Abstract
This article explores how motion capture can be used in the rapid prototyping of product design. Motion capture involves recording and tracking human body movements using special sensors and cameras. While this technology has been widely utilized in the film and video game industry, its application in product design is gaining momentum. By harnessing motion capture, designers can quickly and accurately translate human gestures and movements into three-dimensional digital models. This is often used for Dynamic Ergonomic analysis; this enables the creation of virtual prototypes that faithfully represent the interaction between the user and the proposed product. These virtual prototypes can be visualized, analyzed, and refined before moving on to the physical manufacturing stage. However, we are proposing a method for using expressive movement within the design process, in addition to dynamic ergonomics. This technique encourages collaboration among designers, engineers, and end-users, as they can directly interact with the virtual models and provide valuable feedback, thus providing a two-way channel that provides opportunities for customization. We propose two approaches towards developing products; the body as a tool for measuring and gesturing and the body as a modeling tool by which the spaces and objects are carved through immersive interaction. With this framework we transform the act of moving into a driver for the creation of shape and function, thus making the act of developing product performative and human centric.
Diego Zamora is a lecturer at Plymouth University, he teaches product design and designer-makers. He holds a PhD from the University of Edinburgh, exploring the interrelations between digital fabrication and craft; Bending technology sums up years of research into collaboration, creativity and technology. He has undertaken research in the areas of consumerism and identity, DIY culture, technology dissemination and is passionate about open-source hardware and software. He is conducting research on community technology and development. He plays an active role in local development projects with c
Jose holds a degree in Fine Arts from the Complutense University of Madrid. He directs ARAN Art Network since 2017, a company dedicated to the production of contemporary digital art for Extended Reality and collaborator of RTVE Lab. He is academic coordinator of the Master’s Degree in Extended Reality Design at the International University of La Rioja. As a visual artist he uses sculptural installation and drawing focuses primarily on the concept of multiplicity.
Jonathan Chacón has a Ph.D. in Information Technologies, Communications, and Audiovisual Media. His expertise spans education and scientific research, with a focus on human-computer interaction and user experience. His thesis centered on supporting online educational platforms and fostering content creation among communities of teachers. Currently, he serves as the Coordinator of the Management and Data Area and is a professor in the Industrial Design Engineering program. He has participated in European and national research projects, contributing to the configuration of infrastructures and interactive tools for education and resource management.
Alejandro Romero has a PhD in Computer Engineering with almost 10 years of experience in the development of video games and extended reality experiences (virtual, augmented and mixed reality). He has worked as a developer in different development companies and currently has his own company developing immersive experiences. He is a professor of Computer Science at the Complutense University of Madrid where he teaches how to use the Unity tool for different purposes.
7:00 am - 8:30 am
Wednesday 12th June, 2024