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Final Project (Mystique)

This part of the course was my favorite because I was able to apply all the knowledge and skills I gained at FabLab to this project. I collaborated with my teammate, Jawaher, to transform our idea into a functional, real-life product.

Introduction & Conceptualization

The initial concept for our Mood-Enhancing Diffuser (Mystique) was inspired by the idea of using aromatherapy to influence and improve mood. We aimed to create a device that was not only functional but also user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing. It features four different scents, each targeting a specific mood, and uses corresponding LED lights to visually represent each scent. The diffuser is controlled by an on/off button for ease of use, and is connected to a phone application (Bluefruit Connect), making it even more convinient to use.

Components Used

  1. Adafruit Microcontroller
  2. Humidifier Module
  3. Power Source (Batteries)
  4. Breadboard & Connecting Wires
  5. On/Off Button
  6. Four Scent Containers (Plastic Containers)
  7. LED Lights (4 Different Colors)
  8. Four Different Liquid Scents

Design Process & Development

To create the physical casing and components for the diffuser, we utilized 3D printing and laser cutting.

3D Printing

We designed and printed a custom housing for the diffuser, ensuring it was both durable and visually appealing. The housing (base) which was 3D printed included:

  • A slot for the electronics part (breadboard, microntrollers, relays, batteries)
  • A slot for scent plastic containers
  • A joint for bottom and upper part
  • A rim holder for top acrylic

Laser Cutting

We designed three precise cutouts; one piece for the diffuser’s top part using laser cutting, and the second & third were acrylic dividers to divide the 4 scent containers, ensuring a clean and professional finish.

We created these pieces using 3 mm acrylic sheets; we used frosted acrylic for the top part to make the diffuser look aesthetically pleasing and to reflect the LED light nicely. The frosted acrylic ensured that the layers didn’t show, adding to the overall visual appeal. For the dividers, we used trasnparent acrylic.

After explaining some parts of the process in text, I will illustrate the process steps and design development using some pictures to enhance clarity and understanding.

Challenges Faced

The design and development of the Mood-Enhancing Diffuser presented several challenges that required innovative solutions and perseverance, some of these challenges were:

  • Component Integration: Integrating the microcontroller, humidifier module, and LED lights while ensuring compatibility and functionality was complex and required meticulous planning.

  • Physical Design: Designing and fabricating a compact and aesthetically pleasing housing using 3D printing and laser cutting presented challenges in material selection. We had to cut several parts for several times to ensure size fitting.

  • Software Development: Writing the Python script to synchronize scent selection with LED illumination and aroma diffusion demanded careful calibration and testing.

Despite these challenges, our vision was clear from the outset: to create a device that enhances mood through aromatherapy and visual cues, and after facing all these challenges, we made it through and everything was a success!

Scent Selection & Uses

  1. Eucalyptus (Relaxation)
  2. Helps to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

LED Color: Soft Green light to enhance the calming effect.

  1. Patchouli (Grounding)
  2. Promotes feelings of stability and eases anxiety.

LED Color: Deep purple light to reflect the grounding nature of patchouli.

  1. Citrus (Energy)
  2. Boosts energy and alertness, combats fatigue and enhances focus.

LED Color: Bright yellow light to complement the refreshing and energizing nature of citrus.

  1. Optional Scent (This scent is optional for users who want to customize their experience. We Chose Amber for Comfort)
  2. Creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere, and promotes a sense of well-being.

LED Color: Warm white light to match the comforting essence of amber.

Conclusion

The Mood-Enhancing Diffuser (Mystique) project was a culmination of the skills and knowledge gained throughout our course at FabLab. From conceptualization to final implementation, each phase presented unique challenges that required creativity and persistence to overcome. By carefully selecting scents that target specific moods and designing a visually appealing and functional device, we were able to create a product that not only serves a practical purpose but also enhances the user’s experience through aromatherapy and visual cues.

The integration of 3D printing and laser cutting techniques allowed us to refine the physical design, while programming the microcontroller ensured precise control over the diffuser’s functions.

Testing and iterating on our design ensured the reliability and user-friendliness of the diffuser. The optional amber scent feature provided customization for users, adding a personal touch to the device.

Overall, this project has been immensely rewarding, demonstrating the potential of combining technology and design to create innovative solutions that improve everyday life.

For more info about our project, visit my teammate’s page: https://fablabbh.fabcloud.io/asterisk/2024/jawaher.aldoseri/

Last update: July 18, 2024