An extension of an assignment for my interfaces class, I created the concept of "Looking Glass" to dip my toes into industrial design. Seeing as how big tech companies are racing to break the code of implementing VR/AR into daily life, I took it upon myself to design a prototype of how this might look like. I tried to look for the answer in an unconventional space. There is one industry that specializes in transforming unconventional things into desirable products – the fashion industry. When tech is combined with fashion, it creates into a vicious fusion: high-value, functional statement pieces.
I made a 3D render of a headphones frame and scoured the luxury sunglasses market for a pair that offers a large surface area but conveys an appealing status. I fell in love with Dior's ski I took inspiration from them and created "Looking Glass" – a VR/AR headset concept; a fashion statement.
Applications used: Solidworks, Procreate, Adobe Photoshop
Initial planning: Sketches and Ideation
Offering the option of MR, I am using tinted polarized glass that acts as sunglasses when MR mode is not on. The glasses can rotate on a hinge for a full right angle, so the function of normal audio headphones is an option too. The frame of the headset is equipped with multiple sensors – LiDAR and motion sensors – and a camera, to capture and render a 360 degree image of the user's environment.
Prototyping
I imagined that the glasses would be attached seamlessly onto the headphones in order to ensure smooth movement. The glasses will be covering a decent amount of surface area, albeit not completely in order to not sacrifice too much aesthetic value. It was a trade-off decision that I made. The stainless steel material is inspired by the Airpods Max, which has recently become a trending fashion piece in the late 2022.
Possible Application: Social Media
I believe this piece will thrive in teh era of social media, and I think it will revolutionize how people use the internet to create and share content. The irony of social media in our current era is that, with the proliferating amount of content shared, the barrier of our mobile phone screens instead make people feel increasingly alienated from each other. What if we take away that barrier, and replace it with immersive media instead? Instead of scrolling through rectangular posts, scroll trough full 360-degree environments. Sharing content has a completely new meaning now.
Looking Glass is an input and output device. The cameras capture your surroundings, and the lasses allow you to view other people's surroundings. Everyone will be more connected than ever. Or perhaps – new Black Mirror episode idea? I'll leave it to you to decide.
