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Module Design

1. Introduction

The design of the modules plays a central role in the success of the Iktishaf educational kits. Beyond functionality, the visual and physical design directly impacts how children engage with the kit, understand its components, and feel encouraged to explore, connect, and learn through play.

Each design decision, from size and shape to color and symbols, was made with intentionality to support specific user needs at different entry levels. Younger users benefit from playful characters and bold visuals, while relatively older users transition into logic and abstraction through structured layouts and standardized components.

This page outlines the thinking, process, and principles that shaped the visual identity and physical construction of the modules.

2. Design Principles

Function & Usability

All modules were designed to communicate their function clearly and visually, even before being connected. This was achieved through:
- Engraved symbols and icons (logic gates, sensors, outputs)
- Standardized snap placement and labeled connection pads
- Thoughtful layout and spacing for child-friendly handling

Modules are also shaped and organized to reflect their role in the system, with consistent component positioning (e.g., VCC and GND always in the same place) to reduce cognitive load.

Age-Level Visual Language

Each kit level uses design strategies appropriate for the targeted age group:

  • Mini Makers (Ages 4–7):
    Uses character-shaped modules (car, ambulance, helicopter) with playful outlines, realistic colors, and familiar objects. These modules invite creative storytelling and interaction through visual cues and motion.

  • Tinker Logics (Ages 7–11) and Master Makers (10+):
    Transition into structured rectangular and square modules. These use clean engraving, symbolic logic gates, and functional color coding to introduce concepts like inputs, outputs, and logic flow.

This gradual transition helps children grow from intuitive play to analytical understanding.

Color System

Color was used as a visual guide to differentiate module types:

  • Pink – Logic and control modules (logic gates, microcontroller)
  • Green – Input modules (LDR, touch, pressure, wind, blow)
  • Light Blue – Output modules (LEDs, RGB, buzzer, motor)
  • White – Battery / power module
  • Dark Blue – Jumper modules
  • Brown – Mat

The color logic applies across kits where relevant. Mini Makers uses a more playful palette based on real-world references, while the other two kits follow a consistent functional system.

3. Module Format & Layout

Grid Standard

All modules align with a 6×6 cm physical grid based on snap button spacing. This system ensures:
- Compatibility across all kits
- Easy placement and layout on the breadboard mat
- Reproducibility across design files

This spacing was finalized through early prototyping during the E-Textiles week, balancing ergonomics, clarity, and manufacturability.

Snap Placement

Snap connector holes are positioned consistently on all modules:
- Aligned to the 6 cm grid
- Located to support left-right or top-bottom connections
- Sized and spaced to ensure easy press-fit and reliable connectivity

Even custom-shaped modules (like the helicopter or ambulance) follow this internal grid, allowing them to be placed seamlessly on the mat alongside standard rectangles or squares.

Ergonomic Considerations

Module size and spacing were chosen to be:
- Large enough for children to grab and place without frustration
- Small enough to allow multiple modules on the mat
- Visually readable with minimal text

These considerations also guided the placement of icons, snaps, and component outlines.

4. Fabrication Workflow

Fusion to Rhino

Modules were first created in Fusion 360, where:
- A parametric base template defined standard sizes and snap positions
- Snap cutouts and margins were built into the sketch
- New module variants could be generated quickly by modifying parameters

These outlines were exported as DXF or SVG and refined in Rhino for laser cutting and engraving preparation.

Engraving & Laser File Preparation

In Rhino, each module’s file was finalized with:
- Engraved icons, labels, and circuit symbols
- Organized layers:
- Red for cutting (0.01 mm hairline)
- Black/Blue for engraving
- Alignment with laser cutter bed for batch production
- Consistent file naming (e.g., mastermakers–ldr–v2.svg)

Where needed, SVGs were further cleaned using Inkscape, especially to correct outlines, snap holes, or engraving paths that exported incorrectly from KiCad or Fusion.

Testing & Iteration

Prototypes were tested for:
- Visual clarity
- Snap alignment and durability
- Comfort of use (button pressing, placement)
- Electrical continuity

Iterations focused on icon placement, snap hole reinforcement, and engraving depth to ensure modules could withstand repeated use and communicate their function effectively.

5. Character Modules & Storytelling

The Mini Makers kit includes custom modules shaped like real-world vehicles and objects, each with a fixed function and an embedded narrative:

  • Ambulance – Blinking LEDs using a 555 timer
  • School Bus – Ultrasonic sensor triggering a buzzer
  • Helicopter – Motor and reed switch for motion
  • Car – Vibration motor for haptic output
  • Magic Wand – Magnetic input to trigger reed switches

These modules are larger, more playful, and visually distinct, but still conform to the internal grid system for compatibility. They were designed not only to teach electronics, but to bring storytelling, imagination, and physical play into the experience.

6. Jumpers & Connectivity

Modules are connected using jumper modules, made from dark blue fabric with:
- Two snap connectors
- A strip of conductive silver fabric between them

There are four jumper types:
- Three male-to-male of different lengths
- One male-female-male for more complex bridging

These jumpers are passive and flexible, allowing users to physically map circuits without wires or soldering. Their visual consistency helps differentiate them from logic or functional modules.

7. Reflections & Next Steps

What Worked Well

  • The Fusion-to-Rhino workflow was efficient and adaptable
  • Grid-based design ensured physical compatibility
  • Iconography and color coding made modules intuitive and language-independent
  • Mini Makers characters introduced emotional engagement and creativity

What Could Be Improved

  • Enhancing symbol visibility on darker materials
  • Reinforcing snap points for long-term durability
  • Layering designs to accommodate more complex PCBs in future versions

Scaling Forward

The Iktishaf module system is designed for growth. The grid and snap standard allows for:
- New modules and sensors
- Expanded kits based on themes (e.g., nature, space, cultural events)
- Advanced versions using programmable components and custom PCBs

This system can grow with the learner—starting with storytelling and lights, and progressing to logic gates, sensors, and microcontrollers—bridging the physical and digital worlds of learning.