Final year project
Enabling the visually impaired to swim independently [Read more]
Final year design practice project - Swimsight
Currently, the visually impaired require assistance from a ‘tapper’ when swimming in a pool. Swimsight enables these swimmers to train independently using a head-mounted computer vision system. Much like autonomous cars, the device makes use of the lane lines to track the user’s position. A key innovation is the addition of IMUs that enable the device to compensate for head movement. Corrections are fed back to the user via an intuitive haptic navigation system.
Swimsight branded peripherals
Beyond simply developing the product and technology, the commercial viability of the device was explored. Attention to detail was a key part of delivering an effective solution for visually impaired users.
Swimsight - an exploded view of the embedded system design
Two haptic motors are used to guide the swimmer in a straight line, a third alerts them when they need to turn. The device was designed to be more cost-effective than hiring a ‘tapper’. A functional system was coded in C and tested using a camera, IMU and haptic motors on a scale model of a pool. This was able to demonstrate the device’s feasibility.
Final year live project - ONEPAN
Onepan was a response to a live brief set by Panasonic. We had one week to research, develop and visualise a device that “reduces waste”. Onepan reduces waste in the kitchen by tackling the challenge of portion control.
For more information: https://youtu.be/lYmubDnByxk
Onepan - the user interface
Onepan uses a heat resistant HT201 force sensitive resistor to measure the mass of food within the pan. This reading is then relayed to users via the intuitive LED/LCD interface. This allows users to quickly gauge how much food is in the pan, relative to their desired portion size.
Onepan - smart handle
In addition to reducing food waste, the removable handle allows users to save space in the dishwasher. To remove the handle, the user simply pinches the buttons on either side and twists. In turn, this releases the pan. The thermally conductive non-stick container can also be replaced if damaged.
Functional coffee machine prototype
As part of our final year mechanics and electronics module, we were tasked with designing and building a functional autonomous coffee machine. As a team of four, we applied our knowledge of mechanical analysis, C programming and manufacturing to build the system.
Hugh Johnston
I am passionate about developing products, brands and systems that positively impact society and that deliver meaningful and joyful experiences.
As a product designer, I have a wide breadth of skills from programming and mechanical analysis to form development, with particular expertise in visual communication methods.
Dissertation
An exploration into how Pavegen could develop, utilise and monetise its current data offering.
Final year project
Enabling the visually impaired to swim independently
Awards
'20 Diploma in Professional Studies
'17 Best Client Relationship - UXATHON
Experience
I was responsible for designing creative pitches for clients, digital and printed assets, supporting engineers during installations, and video production. Following the completion of my internship, I was promoted to Lead Designer. I
was responsible for coordinating a team of 3 to design all of the creative content within the company.
Placements
July 2018 - September 2019
Product Design Engineer & Lead Designer, Pavegen