Wearables: So many Neopixels and Discussion

This was an exciting week because after waiting and waiting, my 100 neopixels have arrived! So many Neopixels

I am using them to create a light matrix.  While I did think about just buying an already built flexible, neopixel matrix, I realized not only would it be more economical ($20 vs. $100) but also, I could learn more by creating it myself.  Let the soldering begin!

IMG_3109IMG_3111I was given assistance by man of the “Shop Boys” with one even lending me a handing neopixel holder.   Since this was my first time soldering, it went a lot slower than I expected.  I also started by using a thin wire, thinking it would be easier to sew.   However, it kept breaking off.  So I decided that I just needed to get a testing of some neopixel to see if they worked and did what I wanted.  This meant just some basic wire.

 

 

IMG_3115Voilà! The neopixels actually work. Well at least one works but I am still pretty proud of myself.  I created three more of these so that I could try to make a matrix but had to stop due to my mom being in town. I was also given a copper breadboard last minute and am now thinking that it would be a better idea to just create a more stiff matrix using this board and getting the right images I want so I don’t sew it and then have to undo it if it’s wrong.

Also, this past week has been a great time to discuss my project with people not in the class.  I explained how I wanted to make a dress or a sweater that will have different sensors to express different emotions like when you cross your arms, it will say X and having hands on your hips will be a lightening bolt.  I discussed how I could either make them into images or I could make a scroll bars that would have words scrolling.  I think for me, I want something that wasn’t completely direct and like the “fun” in images or emojis.  This is why I will create a matrix that will have the Xs, lightening bolts, lips, but I may also add in a “Brr.”  I am finding through my discussions that I want this to be seen as fun but also to bring to light what body language is.  My hope is that I can add in enough sensors that the user can even explore their own body language and be surprised by it as well as their counterpart.  I am still undecided on if it should be a dress. I plan to make a dress but I just don’t know if that form fits the idea. I am hoping to determine this in the next few days as well as making a bigger matrix.

 

 

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