UX/UI: Vibey
Role : UX Designer, User Researcher, 3D designer
Duration : 12 Weeks
Client : Neruda Arts (Not-for-profit Organization)
Overview
Vibey is a lightweight vibrotactile wearable that allows Deaf and Hard of Hearing users to feel music through synchronized vibration. Built as a community-driven innovation inspired by Neruda Arts, the project promotes inclusivity by replacing stationary vibrotactile setups with a personal, on-the-go experience.
Background
Neruda Arts, is a non-profit music event organizer that creates arts experiences that unite communities through music, dance and culture. They approached us with a challenge to design a more accessible and immersive way for Deaf and Hard of Hearing audiences to experience live music.
Their existing solution which was a vibrating chair is functional but bulky, stigmatizing and difficult to transport. Our design goal was simple but ambitious:
"How might we design a vibrotactile device for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals to enhance engagement in live music events?"
Research
To ground our design decisions, we conducted both secondary and primary research:
Secondary Research
Literature review on vibrotactile technology, sensory substitution and inclusive design for DHoH communities.
Primary Research
Recruitment outreach to DHoH communities through email, social media. We interviewed 4 participants( Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals) and engaged with organizations for contextual insights.
Through this research, we were able to refine our design direction, emphasizing empowerment, portability and self-expression rather than assistive-device stigma.
Key Insights
Our primary users are individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, as the device is designed to enhance their ability to experience music. However, research expanded our scope to include people without hearing disabilities who may also benefit from the immersive experience, both at music events and in at-home settings. Additionally, we identified our client as a key user, as they will manage and distribute the device during events to create a more inclusive experience for all attendees.
Key Insights
Multi-Point Stimulation
Mapping vibration to different body areas enhances the perception of rhythm and pitch.
Freedom of Movement
Unlike stationary chairs, wearables must allow free dancing and natural motion during concerts.
Small & Discreet
Users preferred unobtrusive designs that blend naturally with everyday wearables.
Design Process
Low-Fidelity Design
Following a human-centered design approach, we began by brainstorming ideas and selecting features informed by user research. Guided by the design goals of portability, encouraging free movement, and delivering dynamic vibration frequencies, we created initial sketches of the wearable device. These low-fidelity prototypes allowed us to iterate quickly, gather feedback, and refine the concept based on user needs and preferences, ensuring the design aligned with our goals for an accessible and engaging solution.
Mid - Fi design
Building on feedback from the low-fidelity designs, we developed mid-fidelity prototypes to refine the solution and validate key design goals. Testing confirmed the device’s size was appropriate and that it successfully encouraged free movement. However, feedback highlighted the need to avoid using white as the as it evokes associations with medical devices.
The accompanying mobile app performed well functionally but required improved visualizations and the addition of a pause or stop control for better usability. Testing also provided insights to further enhance the attachments and overall user experience, setting the stage for continued refinement.
Refining the Design
Using insights from mid-fidelity prototype testing, we refined the device to better meet user needs and align with the client’s brand. The device color was changed to orange; a vibrant shade that reflects the energy of music events while staying consistent with the client’s branding. Additionally, we began testing button types and functionalities to optimize the device's controls, ensuring they were intuitive and enhanced the overall user experience.
Final Design
The final design of Vibey, presented to the client, successfully meets the design goals of portability, encouraging free movement, and delivering dynamic vibration frequencies. The solution consists of two integrated components:
The Unit - Each Vibey set includes four wearable units that attach to the user’s body and translate music signals into vibrations. The units feature intuitive controls for pausing, adjusting intensity, and switching channels, allowing users to customize their experience. An LED light on each unit displays essential information such as battery level and device number, ensuring a seamless user experience.
The Charging Case - Vibey comes with a compact case that not only stores the units but also functions as a charging station. The units automatically recharge when placed in the case, ensuring they are always ready for use.
This final design provides an accessible, portable, and user-friendly solution that enhances inclusivity at music events while aligning with the energy and vibrancy of the experience.
Reflection
This project deepened my passion for inclusive and sensory-driven interaction design. I was challenged to design with greater empathy and sensitivity, ensuring that the solution was not only functional but celebrated the community. This project has made me a more thoughtful and human-centered designer, committed to creating solutions that empower and uplift diverse users.