WEEK EIGHT: WHAT AM I DESIGNING?

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After much deliberation, it became apparent that what I needed to design was not necessarily the "end product" of a headset, speaker and screen for users, but a fully integratable system which could be used for a variety of purposes. The above diagram shows the initial idea behind a virtual interface which could be used, based upon technology which currently exists.

Currently, technology is able to read electrical impulses (thoughts) of one's brain, however is not sophisticated enough to decipher these impulses adequately.  I believe that by 2020, this would be a possibility, as would "downloading' information back into ones mind.

This interface is explored through ones mind, using simultaneous upload and download of information directly from ones mind, in much the same way as one has thoughts or dreams. This would allow for a variety of applications which would expand the world and abilities of users.

In terms of the communication of thoughts, users would be able to communicate with other people using technologies which are currently used extensively- social media, instant messaging, sms, and email, for example.  

Users would also be able to communicate on a "verbal" platform with others- with the software deciphering thoughts into audio, which could then be transmitted using VOIP to place "phonecalls". 

Users would be able to access the internet and various forms of virtual media, allowing them access to education and entertainment that they would otherwise be shut-off from. This would allow an expression of themselves which limited given current technologies.

Further development would enable the interface to connect with third-party devices to expand current uses.  One example of this would be connection with a remote control device or home management system to allow control over air conditioning or blinds, while another might include a speaker/microphone system to allow verbal communication with those in physical proximity to the user.