Process

🛠️ Project Development Process

SugaWave evolved from the idea of creating a wearable that feels emotional, intuitive, and supportive—blending bio-sensing technology with meaningful aesthetics. The process was deeply iterative and driven by experimentation, both technically and materially.

🔄 Iterative Development The initial phase involved ideating a form factor that could host both the electronics and the storytelling. Inspired by watches and medical patches, I sketched a round module that could attach to interchangeable straps—merging fashion and function. Early designs explored fish leather, 3D printing, wood, and metallic chain elements to express both sustainability and versatility.

example

📐 Prototyping & Circuit Testing

I tested biosensors (GY MAX30100 for pulse/oxygen levels,MAX30102), microcontrollers (Xiao ESP32-C3,ESP8266, Xiao ESP32-S3, ESP32) and OLED. This phase included challenges with component compatibility,some microcontrollers would wotk with my screen but would not work with my sensor ot the other way round, it would work with the sensor but not the screen.

I also tried to create a PCB of my own to see it would be the best way to go about my screen and sensor sont connecting to the same micro controller

🎨 Material & Design Trials

Simultaneously, I explored different strap materials that reflect both cultural and futuristic design: bio-fabricated fish leather(Tilapia fish) for sustainability, 3D printed for tech-forward aesthetics,leather for classic aesthetics and chain for a bold, edgy finish. These were chosen not only for looks but also for how they interact with the skin and support the modular concept.

First was making the Fish skin leather. I got a big tilapia fish and removed it's skin then I washed it until all the flesh on it were gone, i then put it in a mixture of egg yolk, liquid soap, and glycerin, I left it in for 10 min then I left it to dry a for a few day after that I washed it in clean water then I left it to dry for 2 weeks.

After the fish leather was done with drying, I took it and folded it into the shape i wanted then I binded it using shoe thread on the sides

the next thing I did was on the laser cutter, I drew a moduler flower in illustrator that i could combine to make a cuff , then I took it to the laser cut and cut a bunch of them in leather.

Mentoring notes/Feedback

Name	Feedback	Suggestions & Links
Audrey	Your project is very technical and useful. Consider exploring quantified self-aspects, materials, and designs related to health, self-care, and beauty. Explore the idea of having a main electronic part with various strap designs. Think about the future of SugaWave—will it be a collaborative platform, open-source hardware, or a commercial product?	Less text per slide. Look at the DIY glycometer and try following some tutorials next week.
Anastasia	The project is very important! Could stress be minimized by using color indicators? For example, green for good levels, orange for borderline levels—so users can move forward without stressing over details.	Consider redesigning the device to be more portable. Try incorporating 3D-printed parametric parts—perhaps a new shell? Also, if you can access an app that reads glucose data, you could transform it into something more tangible. Google Play Diabetes Monitoring App
Cecilia	The story behind your project is well-presented! For the final presentation, consider adding photos or videos to help the audience empathize with people who must prick their skin for glucose monitoring. The AI concept and prototype are well-executed—try integrating them into a cool wearable device. Keep going! 🚀😊	FreeStyle Abbott Diabetes Monitor—sharing this commercial device for reference.
Claudia	Making the device as small as a ring is a great challenge. Does it really need to be that small? Since Fabricademy focuses on textiles, consider a fashionable wearable instead—a scarf, bracelet, or bangle—to make it more realistic to achieve. A bracelet or bangle would also allow more space for electronics and battery.	Audrey suggested materials like metal or wood—they could form part of the device. Material Inspiration: Wooden Bangles on Pinterest | Patterned Wooden Bangle | Wooden Bracelet Design
Nuria	Your project has a lot of potential! Consider expanding on how users interact with it daily. A seamless experience could encourage adoption. Could haptic feedback or other sensory cues be integrated?	Investigate how wearables in the quantified self-movement enhance user experience. Consider smart materials for dynamic visual feedback.
Rico	Think about user ergonomics. A device that is too bulky may discourage long-term wear. Striking a balance between function and form is key. Could modularity be an option?	Check out modular wearables like Fitbit and Apple Watch bands for inspiration.