Curio
An EdTech device that supports visual training and practice for children with low vision.
Timeline
February - May, 2022
Role
Individual Thesis Project
BDes, Dubai Institute of Design & Innovation
Mentored by
Dr.Raffi Tchakerian
Process
Conceptualization, Ethnographic Research, Coding, Electronics, Working Prototype, User testing, Project Documentation
Making visual therapy more engaging
Visual therapy relies on guided exercises to develop focus,tracking and motor skills in low-vision children. Curio uses light-based interactions to make these exercises more
engaging and participatory.
Working within real classrooms
Developed in collaboration with the Al Noor Training Centre for People of Determination, Dubai. This project was shaped through time spent observing therapists and low-vision students during visual stimuli exercises and motor skill training.
Key Observations
Tools that don’t scale
In classrooms, therapists relied on simple, makeshift tools. More advanced equipment existed, but was limited to specialized rooms, reducing regular access for most students.
The real user is the facilitator
Teachers and therapists needed intuitive tools to run engaging exercises consistently, without setup complexity or reliance on dedicated spaces.
Need for low-tech systems
The opportunity was to miniaturize effective but complex therapy tools into a single, accessible device, using simple electronics to deliver consistent, engaging interactions.
Balancing access and effectiveness
The objective was to combine the accessibility of low-tech tools with the effectiveness of specialized systems.
A makeshift tool made using a torch and colored gel to create diffused light for visual stimulation.
The LightAide, a specialized LED-based device designed for structured visual therapy exercises.
Simple inputs, responsive feedback
A light matrix, gesture sensor, and control knob work together to create dynamic exercises that adapt to the child’s interaction.
Gesture-driven response
Exercise 1
Hand movement controls light animations, allowing the child to interact with the system while developing coordination and motor skills.
Guided light tracking
Exercise 2
A rotary knob changes the color of the light matrix, allowing the instructor to adapt the light source to different children during tracking exercises.
Curio's Working Prototype
The prototype integrates sensing, control, and output into a compact, approachable form that is easy to operate in a classroom setting.
Making a Deployable Product
Exploring form
CAD iterations defined the enclosure.
Rapid Physical Tests
Dummy 3D prints helped test ergonomics, form and space.
The Electronics test bed
Electronics setup validated interactions.
Constructing the light matrix
A custom 5x5 LED matrix was soldered.
Integrating light and form
An integrated diffuser helped soften the light output.
Designing the control unit
Inputs were housed in a wireless shell accompanying the light matrix.
Assembling the system
Final wiring and assembly enabled stable testing for operational bugs.
Refining the finish
3D prints were treated and painted to be smooth and offer a better feel in hand.
Thesis Exhbit
Presented in the final
showcase at DIDI.
Presented at
Prototypes for Humanity
Exhibited in Dubai as part of a global showcase of top under-graduate projects.
Curio’s enclosure and internal component layout
Curio
Accessible and engaging visual therapy.
Curio simplifies visual stimulation exercises through responsive, light-based interactions. Designed as a low-tech device, it brings the functionality of advanced assistive tools into a compact, handheld form for everyday classroom use.
