SensorViz: Visualizing Sensor Data Across Different Stages of Prototyping Interactive Objects

Abstract

In this paper, we propose SensorViz, a visualization tool that supports novice makers during different stages of prototyping with sensors. SensorViz provides three modes of visualization: (1) visualizing datasheet specifications before buying sensors, (2) visualizing sensor interaction with the environment via AR before building the physical prototype, and (3) visualizing live/recorded sensor data to test the assembled prototype. SensorViz includes a library of visualization primitives for different types of sensor data and a sensor database builder, which once a new sensor is added automatically creates a matching visualization by composing visualization primitives. Our user study with 12 makers shows that users are more effective in selecting sensors and configuring sensor layouts using SensorViz compared to traditional prototyping utilizing datasheets and manual testing on the prototype. Our post hoc interviews indicate that SensorViz reduces trial and error by allowing makers to explore sensor positions on the prototype early in the design process.