University Project Case Study: Smart Mirror Fitness

Objective: To create an innovative smart mirror that guides users through fitness workouts at home, integrating modern technology with everyday use to enhance the fitness experience.

Sketching and Ideation

My preliminary sketches presented various design options for the fitness mirror, illustrating how it could connect to data and switch between fitness and smart mirror modes. I further explored the mirror's functionalities through detailed hybrid sketches and storyboards.

3D Renders and final changes

I sketched the mirror in SolidWorks and created renderings to visualize its appearance. This process led me to shift from a full-length mirror to a horizontal design, as it would blend more seamlessly into both living rooms and bedrooms.

Electronics

The main electronics used to run the fitness mirror include a Raspberry Pi and a monitor. Additionally, I integrated LED strips, which required a circuit and an assortment of wires. I also installed the necessary programs on the Raspberry Pi and added basic fitness videos. Once everything was mapped out, I began manufacturing my first prototype.

Prototyping

I scaled down most components and adjusted dimensions slightly to reduce costs and expedite the process, leveraging available resources. Everything functioned as intended, except for minor coding issues, which were resolved quickly.

Testing

During the peak of the COVID-19 lockdown, I had the opportunity to test the prototype for 30 days. This allowed me to ensure that the program was functioning correctly and effectively met its goal of supporting my fitness routine.

Building The Final Model

Once all testing was complete and software adjustments were made, I proceeded to build the final model. The manufacturing process remained largely unchanged, as most modifications were internal. I adhered to the original dimensions and installed all components onto the larger screen and mirror, finalising the project.

Challenges and Solutions

Wiring Management: The wiring for the LED strips and other electronic components became difficult to manage, with wires potentially being visible and creating a cluttered appearance.
Solution: I sourced longer wires and used heat-shrink tubing to bundle and conceal them neatly. This not only kept the wiring organized but also ensured that it remained hidden from view, maintaining the mirror’s sleek design.

COVID-19 Lockdown Testing: The lockdown during COVID-19 presented a challenge in gathering user feedback and testing the mirror in varied environments.
Solution: I turned this challenge into an opportunity by personally testing the prototype for 30 days, ensuring that the fitness program worked as intended to keep users active at home. This extended testing period allowed me to refine the software and user interface based on real-world usage.

Material Scaling: To reduce costs and speed up the prototype development, I needed to scale down some components and adjust dimensions, which risked compromising the mirror's functionality and appearance.
Solution: I carefully selected components that could be scaled without affecting performance. By optimizing the design for available resources, I managed to maintain the mirror’s functionality and aesthetics while adhering to budget and timeline constraints.