I have the concept, the initial testing has validated the core idea, and I’m inspired by the visual references. Now time to making it a reality. There are four core elements to this:
Clicker look and feel
Design considerations & actions:
- Needs to have a satisfying tactile ‘click’
- Appropriate weight, feeling solid
- Aesthetic aligned with ceremonial/minimal room feel
- Order 3-4 different clicker types to physically test
Clicker → LED visualisation screen
What needs to happen: A working prototype where pressing the button triggers a visualisation – a pattern on an LED screen or light. I have no idea how this will work but it seems like there are a few routes.
Options:
- Basic: Arduino Uno + simple button + LED strip
- Intermediate: Raspberry Pi + screen + USB button (Katie has one I can borrow)
- Advanced: TouchDesigner + projector OR LED panels + USB button/controller
Reflections & actions: I’m going to watch some YouTube videos on all three options to learn more. At this stage, I’m wondering if it would be more efficient to partner with or hire an expert in this field. That way I can focus my time on the visual output which is the area I’m more interested in.
EEG → LED visualisation screen
What needs to happen: Research what EEG’s can actually measure (seems like brain activity states, not discrete thoughts), and assess whether the gap between manual counting and neural activity is meaningful enough to justify the complexity.
Actions:
- Contact CSM + UCL neuroscience departments for consultation to understand technical limitations
- Demo EEG headsets if possible (borrow/rent)
- Decide if EEG is essential or optional for Phase 1 – does it make the experience unnecessarily ‘lab-like’? Or is self counting enough?
Visualising the data/clicks
What needs to happen: A visual pattern displays on a screen – something that acknowledges each click without pulling attention from the internal experience. The ideal would be a Jenny Holzer-style LED, abstract patterns that build/shift (eg. my circles/bindu ref), or a simple numerical display revealed at end.
Reflections & actions: Brainstorm and sketch how this might look, referencing earlier moire effect patterns and assessing any technical limitations/feasibility.
Other physical elements to consider
Timer: I’m thinking a meditation bell sound to indicate start/finish
Seating: Single stool/bench or cushion – needs to support focus without creating distraction
Instructions & handout: Printed card / spoken brief / video. Needs to work across language barriers.