BL0.0M: Safe Space Through Camera Sensor Design Aesthetics.

The Initial Assignment had the goal of enhancing the feeling of safety in public environments using responsible sensing. Following the method of Value Sensitive Design and its 3 core aspects, contextual research was conducted into 1) perceived safety as the value, 2) smart sensors as the technology, and 3) public spaces as the context of use. Subsequently, the project was narrowed down to focus on improving the design aesthetics and visual impact of camera sensors in public spaces, with the intended result of enhancing the perception of safety with the Target User Group of heterosexual women, aged 15-25.

Through the involvement of the target user group in 2 co-creation sessions, multiple informal feedback sessions, product usability evaluation in the concept development, and product design phases of this project, a final design was created. The final design, BL0.0M, is a re-conception of the design, use and perception of current camera sensors. Compatible with both dome- and bullet camera sensor types, BL0.0M takes inspiration from a flower to serve both a functional and visual purpose to its public environment. Upon activation of the camera sensors, BL0.0M’s petals open up–clearly communicating its functionality to passersby, and can be adjusted to convey different product expressions. Its modularity extends to its petal modules, which can easily be interchanged to allow for further customisation and variety.