Tangible Binary Messages

On Wednesday in class we talked about how computers and other electronic devices work off of binary number systems. We created a prototype that used some sort of visual signal or sound to show a yes or no answer. At first, it was challenging to come up with an idea of how to do this with the strange items on the table. Then, I built a system where there was a platform and then a ball rolling on a ruler. There was a metal rod I could place to close the ramp from the ruler, which would symbolize no. If the ball rolled down the ruler it would symbolize yes.

After this we has to add in two other answers besides yes and no, so I added in I don't know and maybe. It was difficult to figure out a way to create two new outputs, but I added two more rulers on each side and sectioned off regions for maybe and yes. An added challenge was to make each answer different sounds. I completed this challenge by the different sounds of the ball hitting wood and the ball hitting rulers, as well as staying still if I don't know the answer to a question. If I could do anything to improve this prototype, I would create different sounds for yes and maybe, as well as make the rulers at a steeper angle to increase efficiency.