Set the (VR) Screen: Wearable Device Designer – SCOPES-DF
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Lesson Details

Subjects *
Engineering, Mathematics, Science, Technology
Age Ranges *
11-14
Fab Tools *
2D design software, laser cutter
Standards
MS-ETS1-1, MS-ETS1-2, MS-ETS1-3, MS-ETS1-4, Fab-Safety.1, Fab-Modeling.1, Fab-Fabrication.1, Fab-Design.1
Author
Aidan Mullaney

Author

Aidan Mullaney
Aidan Mullaney
Other
Aidan Mullaney is the Instructional Manager for the GE/Celtics Brilliant Play Lab. His primary role with the Fab Foundation is developing and delivering curriculum for the middle school mobile lab. Aidan facilitates career-related activities with a focus on STEM in… Read More

Summary

Students are challenged over the course of five (5) lessons to develop a cardboard virtual reality headset. Working as a “company” or in groups, learners will fulfill job specific tasks to produce a headset and present their prototypes. Students will employ the Engineering Design Process throughout the five days of 5E model instruction. This lesson uses 2D vector design software and a laser cutter to produce student prototypes. This real world challenge also introduces students to a number of careers including Wearable Device Designer.

What You'll Need

Machines:

  • Laser Cutter
  • Computers (one per pupil) w/ Internet access
  • Software: Inkscape
  • (Optional) Vinyl Cutter w/ vinyl for additional designs

Essential Materials:

  • Google Cardboard Template file (v1.0)
  • E-flute Cardboard (pizza box cardboard)
  • Biconvex Lens Set – 25mm Diameter 40mm Focal Length (two lenses per headset)
  • Clear tape or glue adhesive

Additional materials:

  • Rubber Bands – Size 14
  • Hook and Loop (Velcro) fasteners
  • Felt
  • Craft, wrapping, or origami paper
  • Suspenders (child)
  • Prefabricated VR Headsets

 

Lesson Materials

The Instructions

Day One

Students will be introduced to the concept of designing a VR headset by first identifying a need and/or problem. Students will begin ideating devices with their goals in mind and follow guided instruction using Inkscape to build the foundation of vector software skills.

Engage

Time: ~15 minutes

Materials: Projector, Computer, Laser Cutter, Cardboard, Example VR headsets, Paper, Pencil

Process:

(EDP: Identify)

Before class begins, ensure there are prefabricated VR cardboard headsets to show students as they enter. You may want examples cutting out on the laser cutter.

Organize students into groups of two – four. Their group will represent a new virtual reality (VR) company similar to “Oculus” or “PlaystationVR”. At the end of the week, students will pitch their company designed VR headsets to the class. In order to do this, everyone will have defined roles (assigned later).

Ask students, in their groups, “Why might someone not be able to attend a basketball game?” Or “Why might someone not be able to visit (a particular location)?” Have students list and share their responses.

Inform students that VR Headsets are immersive, head-mounted displays that allow individual to engage in a virtual environment. Simply put, they are devices that allow a person to feel like they are somewhere else or in the projected environment.

Share with students the following video of highlights from NBA games in VR: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=xEbZV_BmkYw

 

Explore

Time: 30-50 minutes

Materials: Computer (one per student), Inkscape software (Computer mouse), VR Headsets, Unassembled/-folded Headsets (one per group), Paper, Pencil

Process:

(EDP: Research)

Pass out prefabricated or purchased VR headsets to students.

Using their phones, allow students ~10 minutes to test out VR apps or videos. Recommended apps include: “Cardboard”, “Street View”, “Expeditions”, “YouTube” – search for “VR” videos. You may also show the NBA video from earlier.

While they test the headsets, ask students to record their answers to the following questions:

  • In what ways is your headset functionally and aesthetically sufficient?
  • In what ways is it NOT functionally and aesthetically sufficient?
  • Overall how could it be improved to fit your needs?

Share results from student groups.

Digital fabrication can rapidly produce customized devices. As a class, you will begin exploring the 2D vector software “Inkscape” and laser cutting technology to create customizable headsets in groups.

Pass out computers. After opening Inkscape, allow students 5-10 minutes to do, make, and explore with limited or no guidance from the instructor.

While students explore, ask guiding questions including but not limited to the following:

  • How do I add a shape to my canvas?
  • When my shape is selected, what can I do to the shape?
  • What does the “5” key do? What about the “4” or “3” key? The “+” and “-” key?
  • What happens when I choose View → Display Mode → Outline?

Help students download or open the attached Google Cardboard .svg file (See attached “v1 Google Cardboard”).

Pass out unfolded, disassembled cardboard headsets to students.

Allow students 5 minutes to test out the proper assembly of the disassembled headset.