Electronics as material: littleBits

Abstract

Electronics are everywhere. We produce, consume and throw out more electronic gadgets than ever before. Yet, creativity with electronics starts when they can be thought of as sketching materials like paper, screws, and cardboard. This Studio will allow participants to create prototypes of interactive gadgets using a diverse library of materials: littleBits (an open-source kit of pre-assembled electronics that snap together with tiny magnets), combined with traditional design materials (foam, fabric, paper, cardboard, etc). The Studio structure is in several phases. The participants start by conceptualizing an interactive object or small-scale installation, break down the interaction, and build it using familiar and unfamiliar materials. Participants will then present their creation and discuss the process of expanding their materials library to include light, sound, sensing, motion and logic. Finally, the participants will come up with ideas for new littleBits modules to suggest or contribute to the open source kit and community.