There’s something about opposing materials that I love, like sleek satin with nubby knit. Electronics are also curious when placed next to more traditional materials, and I’m quite sure I got my first exposure with Leah Buechley of MIT’s High-Low Tech group. I was lucky enough to attend her workshop Crafting Electricity at Shakerag and was wowed by the cross pollination of materials—from twigs and moss to ceramics and paper. So, I’m excited to discover this prototype for a UV bracelet by Janelle Gatchalian. Not only does it have interesting textures, but it also has Adafruit electronics inside. A FLORA microcontroller is paired with its matching UV Index Sensor, which approximates UV based on visible and IR light from the sun. The result is displayed as a color thanks to a single NeoPixel. On the material side I like the 70s appeal of the rough suede and leather tie. The grommets also make clever portholes for both the sensor and the LED. Janelle created the bracelet for a UX class at UCLA Extension Visual Arts and according to her “it’s just in time for summer.” If you would like to follow Janelle’s lead, check out our learning guide for the Sunscreen Reminder Hat. You can hack a hat or create your own bracelet using our FLORA tech that will warn you about sunburn. This project uses a piezo buzzer instead of an LED, but feel free to use whatever you prefer for output. UX is all about designing for the user, so if that is you, have fun exploring. Send us a video of your finished project in action and don’t forget to have your suntan lotion on standby!
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