Reimagined Despicable Me’s Freeze Ray for
potential real-world problem-solving
Reimagined Despicable Me’s Freeze Ray for
potential real-world problem-solving
Reimagined Despicable Me’s Freeze Ray for
potential real-world problem-solving
Team
Team
Keerthana Ravichandran
Keerthana Ravichandran
Keerthana Ravichandran
Role
Role
UX Research
UX Research
UX Research
UI Design
UI Design
UI Design
Branding
Branding
Branding
Interaction Design
Interaction Design
Interaction Design
Duration
Duration
Jan 2024 - Apr 2024
Jan 2024 - Apr 2024
Jan 2024 - Apr 2024
Tools
Tools
Figma
Figma
Figma
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop
Overview
Overview
In this project, I dove into the design and potential of Gru’s Freeze Ray from Despicable Me, exploring how this fictional device could address real-world challenges. Beyond freezing objects for laughs, I reimagined the Freeze Ray as a tool to combat climate change. By analyzing its use in the movies, I focused on designing flexible, easy-to-use interfaces that align with both Gru’s mischievous antics and his occasional heroic acts. This project blends fun, fiction, and practical design insights, showcasing how imaginative tech can inspire real-world solutions through adaptable, user-centered interfaces.
In this project, I dove into the design and potential of Gru’s Freeze Ray from Despicable Me, exploring how this fictional device could address real-world challenges. Beyond freezing objects for laughs, I reimagined the Freeze Ray as a tool to combat climate change. By analyzing its use in the movies, I focused on designing flexible, easy-to-use interfaces that align with both Gru’s mischievous antics and his occasional heroic acts. This project blends fun, fiction, and practical design insights, showcasing how imaginative tech can inspire real-world solutions through adaptable, user-centered interfaces.
Understanding the user
Understanding the user
I conducted a thorough user analysis focusing on Gru, the main operator of the Freeze Ray from the "Despicable Me" series. I gathered key facts about Gru, including his demographics, background, and motivations, to understand his character better. This analysis also explored Gru's interactions with the Freeze Ray, identifying his capabilities and proficiency with technology. Additionally, I investigated unknowns, such as Gru's interests, hobbies, and potential hidden artistic talents. Task analysis was performed to outline the steps Gru takes when operating the Freeze Ray, while environmental analysis considered the contexts in which he uses it. To visualize user data, I created an Empathy Map and an Extraordinare Card, helping to synthesize insights about Gru's experiences and needs as a user of the Freeze Ray. This comprehensive approach enabled a deeper understanding of Gru's character and his relationship with the fictional technology, which could inform future design considerations.
I conducted a thorough user analysis focusing on Gru, the main operator of the Freeze Ray from the "Despicable Me" series. I gathered key facts about Gru, including his demographics, background, and motivations, to understand his character better. This analysis also explored Gru's interactions with the Freeze Ray, identifying his capabilities and proficiency with technology. Additionally, I investigated unknowns, such as Gru's interests, hobbies, and potential hidden artistic talents. Task analysis was performed to outline the steps Gru takes when operating the Freeze Ray, while environmental analysis considered the contexts in which he uses it. To visualize user data, I created an Empathy Map and an Extraordinare Card, helping to synthesize insights about Gru's experiences and needs as a user of the Freeze Ray. This comprehensive approach enabled a deeper understanding of Gru's character and his relationship with the fictional technology, which could inform future design considerations.
Visualizing User Data
Visualizing User Data
Empathy Map
Empathy Map
I focused on two tasks: using the Freeze Ray for mischief and defending against threats. I captured what users think, feel, and do in each scenario, which helped me get into Gru’s heads and understand his experiences better. Peer feedback also added new insights, making me appreciate the importance of empathy in design even more.
I focused on two tasks: using the Freeze Ray for mischief and defending against threats. I captured what users think, feel, and do in each scenario, which helped me get into Gru’s heads and understand his experiences better. Peer feedback also added new insights, making me appreciate the importance of empathy in design even more.
Task 1 - Manipulating the Freeze Ray for Mischief and Humor
Task 1 - Manipulating the Freeze Ray for Mischief and Humor
Task 2 - Defending Against Threats
Task 2 - Defending Against Threats
Extordinarie Card
Extordinarie Card
I crafted a visual representation of Gru's adventures, showcasing his multifaceted character and experiences with the Freeze Ray. The card depicted various scenes, highlighting moments of triumph, danger, humor, and sentimentality, such as Gru freezing Vector's head and returning home with cotton candy on his face alongside his daughters. This creative exercise allowed me to explore storytelling through visuals, emphasizing the intricate design and significance of the Freeze Ray in Gru's narrative. The process reinforced my commitment to creating visually engaging experiences that resonate emotionally with audiences.
I crafted a visual representation of Gru's adventures, showcasing his multifaceted character and experiences with the Freeze Ray. The card depicted various scenes, highlighting moments of triumph, danger, humor, and sentimentality, such as Gru freezing Vector's head and returning home with cotton candy on his face alongside his daughters. This creative exercise allowed me to explore storytelling through visuals, emphasizing the intricate design and significance of the Freeze Ray in Gru's narrative. The process reinforced my commitment to creating visually engaging experiences that resonate emotionally with audiences.
Conceptualizing the User Flow
Conceptualizing the User Flow
Hierarchical Task Analysis
Hierarchical Task Analysis
I focused on two tasks: using the Freeze Ray for mischief and defending against threats. I captured what users think, feel, and do in each scenario, which helped me get into Gru’s heads and understand his experiences better. Peer feedback also added new insights, making me appreciate the importance of empathy in design even more.
I focused on two tasks: using the Freeze Ray for mischief and defending against threats. I captured what users think, feel, and do in each scenario, which helped me get into Gru’s heads and understand his experiences better. Peer feedback also added new insights, making me appreciate the importance of empathy in design even more.
Task 1 - Manipulating the Freeze Ray for Mischief and Humor
Task 1 - Manipulating the Freeze Ray for Mischief and Humor
Task 2 - Defending Against Threats
Task 2 - Defending Against Threats
Screen Form Factor Selection: Exploring, Brainstorming, and Finalizing Screen Placement
Screen Form Factor Selection: Exploring, Brainstorming, and Finalizing Screen Placement
To nail down the screen form factor for the Freeze Ray, I tried out different brainstorming methods like rolestorming, group brainstorming, and individual brainstorming. Rolestorming got our creative juices flowing by thinking outside the box, while group brainstorming helped gather diverse ideas, even though managing different opinions was a bit tricky. Individual brainstorming was great for digging deep into my thoughts, but it missed out on that group vibe. In the end, I decided on a medium-sized screen positioned on top of the device, facing the user. This setup offers the best visibility, accessibility, and comfort based on what we learned from everyone’s input.
To nail down the screen form factor for the Freeze Ray, I tried out different brainstorming methods like rolestorming, group brainstorming, and individual brainstorming. Rolestorming got our creative juices flowing by thinking outside the box, while group brainstorming helped gather diverse ideas, even though managing different opinions was a bit tricky. Individual brainstorming was great for digging deep into my thoughts, but it missed out on that group vibe. In the end, I decided on a medium-sized screen positioned on top of the device, facing the user. This setup offers the best visibility, accessibility, and comfort based on what we learned from everyone’s input.
Designing Prototypes
I initially created low-fidelity and medium-fidelity wireframes in two versions each. The first versions underwent a thorough peer evaluation process, with the feedback and insights documented in a "UI Design Tools Prototype Evaluation" report. I then incorporated these learnings into the second versions of both wireframe types, refining the designs to address identified issues and enhance the user experience
I initially created low-fidelity and medium-fidelity wireframes in two versions each. The first versions underwent a thorough peer evaluation process, with the feedback and insights documented in a "UI Design Tools Prototype Evaluation" report. I then incorporated these learnings into the second versions of both wireframe types, refining the designs to address identified issues and enhance the user experience
Low Fidelity Paper Prototype
Low Fidelity Paper Prototype
I created low-fidelity wireframes using paper, pens, and sticky notes to sketch out the basic layout and user flow of the interface. To model the Freeze Ray, I utilized a combination of paper, pens, and household items to create a tangible representation. I focused on depicting the key components of the device, such as the trigger mechanism, the energy source, and the freezing beam itself. This hands-on approach allowed me to visualize the device's form and function, aiding in the design process.. Low Fidelity Paper Prototype
I created low-fidelity wireframes using paper, pens, and sticky notes to sketch out the basic layout and user flow of the interface. To model the Freeze Ray, I utilized a combination of paper, pens, and household items to create a tangible representation. I focused on depicting the key components of the device, such as the trigger mechanism, the energy source, and the freezing beam itself. This hands-on approach allowed me to visualize the device's form and function, aiding in the design process.. Low Fidelity Paper Prototype
Medium Fidelity Prototype
Medium Fidelity Prototype
I used Figma to create a design that really focused on user flow and functionality. After getting some feedback, I refined the prototype to fix issues like unclear icons and inconsistencies in the layout. Evaluating it helped me see how effective it was at guiding users and making everything clear. For the UI design tools, I put together detailed wireframes that simulated the Freeze Ray interface, again using Figma. I concentrated on how users would interact with the design, how they’d navigate, and the overall functionality. Evaluating this prototype allowed me to see how well it helped users understand and complete their tasks. Medium Fidelity Prototype
I used Figma to create a design that really focused on user flow and functionality. After getting some feedback, I refined the prototype to fix issues like unclear icons and inconsistencies in the layout. Evaluating it helped me see how effective it was at guiding users and making everything clear. For the UI design tools, I put together detailed wireframes that simulated the Freeze Ray interface, again using Figma. I concentrated on how users would interact with the design, how they’d navigate, and the overall functionality. Evaluating this prototype allowed me to see how well it helped users understand and complete their tasks. Medium Fidelity Prototype
High Fidelity Prototype
High Fidelity Prototype
I developed high-fidelity prototype building on what I learned from the medium-fidelity version. This time, I added advanced visual elements and interactive features to create a more realistic user experience. The goal here was to validate my design choices, spot any usability issues, and fine-tune the interface before the final implementation. Fortunately, no major changes were needed in the high fidelity since medium fidelity was pretty solid, except for a few minor tweaks to transitions and animations. High Fidelity Prototype
I developed high-fidelity prototype building on what I learned from the medium-fidelity version. This time, I added advanced visual elements and interactive features to create a more realistic user experience. The goal here was to validate my design choices, spot any usability issues, and fine-tune the interface before the final implementation. Fortunately, no major changes were needed in the high fidelity since medium fidelity was pretty solid, except for a few minor tweaks to transitions and animations. High Fidelity Prototype
Crafting Narratives
Crafting Narratives
To bring the Freeze Ray to life, I delved into the realm of narrative design, crafting a compelling story that would resonate with users. By combining engaging storytelling techniques with intuitive user experiences, I aimed to create a memorable and enjoyable interaction with the device.
To bring the Freeze Ray to life, I delved into the realm of narrative design, crafting a compelling story that would resonate with users. By combining engaging storytelling techniques with intuitive user experiences, I aimed to create a memorable and enjoyable interaction with the device.
Story Design & Visualization
Story Design & Visualization
To create a captivating and engaging user experience, I delved into the realm of story design and visualization for the Freeze Ray. I developed a compelling narrative arc that spanned the device's journey, creating relatable characters and establishing a consistent visual language. By mapping out the user's journey, I ensured the story aligned with their expectations and needs.
To create a captivating and engaging user experience, I delved into the realm of story design and visualization for the Freeze Ray. I developed a compelling narrative arc that spanned the device's journey, creating relatable characters and establishing a consistent visual language. By mapping out the user's journey, I ensured the story aligned with their expectations and needs.
Storyboarding & Iterations
Storyboarding & Iterations
To visualize the story and ensure a smooth flow, I created storyboards. These storyboards depicted key scenes and interactions, helping to identify potential pacing issues and areas for improvement. I began by sketching rough storyboards and refined them through multiple iterations, incorporating feedback and maintaining a consistent visual style. By carefully considering the timing and pacing, I aimed to create a compelling and immersive user experience.
To visualize the story and ensure a smooth flow, I created storyboards. These storyboards depicted key scenes and interactions, helping to identify potential pacing issues and areas for improvement. I began by sketching rough storyboards and refined them through multiple iterations, incorporating feedback and maintaining a consistent visual style. By carefully considering the timing and pacing, I aimed to create a compelling and immersive user experience.
Interactive Design & Animation
Interactive Design & Animation
I used Adobe After Effects to create dynamic animations that brought the freeze ray narrative to life, blending visuals and storytelling for an engaging experience. Illustrator and Photoshop helped design and enhance visual elements. Through feedback and refinement, I improved pacing and clarity to maximize audience impact.
I used Adobe After Effects to create dynamic animations that brought the freeze ray narrative to life, blending visuals and storytelling for an engaging experience. Illustrator and Photoshop helped design and enhance visual elements. Through feedback and refinement, I improved pacing and clarity to maximize audience impact.
Prototype Evolution
Prototype Evolution
I developed the prototype from initial drafts to a polished cinematic experience, using Adobe After Effects to add detailed animations and effects. Each iteration enhanced visual depth and storytelling, aligning with a more immersive, animated-movie feel.
I developed the prototype from initial drafts to a polished cinematic experience, using Adobe After Effects to add detailed animations and effects. Each iteration enhanced visual depth and storytelling, aligning with a more immersive, animated-movie feel.
User-Centered Video Creation
User-Centered Video Creation
Throughout production, I gathered and integrated feedback at each stage to refine the narrative, visuals, and engagement. This iterative approach ensured the video resonated with viewers, highlighting key aspects of the freeze ray’s role and impact.
Throughout production, I gathered and integrated feedback at each stage to refine the narrative, visuals, and engagement. This iterative approach ensured the video resonated with viewers, highlighting key aspects of the freeze ray’s role and impact.
Reflection
Reflection
This project deepened my skills in storytelling, visual design, and iterative feedback. Working in Adobe After Effects, along with Illustrator and Photoshop, taught me to combine tools effectively to create engaging content. Each phase reinforced the importance of flexibility and collaboration, which I’ll carry forward to enhance future projects and further refine my creative process.
This project deepened my skills in storytelling, visual design, and iterative feedback. Working in Adobe After Effects, along with Illustrator and Photoshop, taught me to combine tools effectively to create engaging content. Each phase reinforced the importance of flexibility and collaboration, which I’ll carry forward to enhance future projects and further refine my creative process.
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