24/04/25 – Reflection: Projector Experiments, Narrative Scope, and Story Adjustments

🔧 Technical Exploration: Projector Integration

Today, while I didn't make significant progress on my FMP build itself, I did observe how others are approaching their scripts and formats. This reminded me of proper script structure and visual storytelling techniques, which may be helpful later. I also continued exploring how to integrate a micro projector into the experience.

Initial idea:

• Hide the projector inside an old telephone, where picking up the receiver triggers the video and plays the audio through the handset.

Problem:

• Only one participant would hear the audio, which isn't ideal for a 5-person team.

Alternative idea:

• Use a mechanism that lifts a physical cover and plays the projection automatically, possibly with a window or trapdoor.

• Add a smoke or fog effect to simulate the self-destruct moment (like the classic Mission: Impossible intros).

For the smoke, I initially looked at vape pens but realised they'd be hard to trigger without manual interaction. Then I discovered pocket fog machines online—small, remote-activated, and perfect for a dramatic reveal. They're marketed for photographers and miniature train displays, but they could be ideal for this.

This could be a great party trick or immersion moment. Still, I'm aware I might be drifting too far from the original goal: a training session about ADHD. The Mission: Impossible narrative is exciting, but the balance is tipping, and I need to be careful not to lose sight of the core purpose.

⏳ Realistic Timing & Location Cuts

After walking the route earlier and mapping it to the Fibonacci spiral, I've decided to remove the Tower as both the starting and ending point:

• It adds too much unnecessary walking.

• Cutting it saves 5+ minutes, which is significant for a timed 60–90 minute session.

• The remaining three locations still align nicely with the Fibonacci spiral, so this change feels both practical and poetic.

By trimming the scale, I can make the experience more cohesive and better paced.

🧠 Revisiting ADHD Visual Model

I recently showed someone my animated graphic depicting ADHD as a non-linear spectrum using a spider/radial chart. While the visual made the intended point (that neurodivergent traits vary greatly between individuals), the feedback revealed two important oversights:

1. Neurotypical baseline was underrepresented, which might confuse some viewers.

2. The symptom spread appeared random, which could lead to misunderstanding about diagnostic criteria.

To improve it:

• I'll revise the chart with more structure, showing clear links between symptom clusters and formal diagnosis pathways.

• I'll make it aesthetically pleasing but functionally accurate, since this is part of a training tool, not just a metaphor.

🗺️ Story & Room Reconfiguration

Stacey's feedback on time limitations has helped me rethink the narrative structure. As a result:

• ST11 will likely become the first room, where participants receive the mission briefing.

• The ATC might be replaced by a more logical nearby classroom with bookshelves and other props.

• This keeps the experience tight and grounded.

These changes will help streamline the story, reduce walking time, and maintain immersion.

🧪 Gadget Brainstorm: Realistic or Scope Creep?

I'm now toying with the idea of designing a custom housing for the projector using a 3D printer. While this is technically possible (and I do have access to 3D printers at work), it would:

• Require learning new software

• Add time-consuming complexity

• Likely distract from the core deliverables

So for now, that will stay in the "future upgrade" category—something fun to experiment with later if the project gains traction or receives additional funding.

✅ Summary of Key Actions:

• Refocus the narrative to keep ADHD training front and center

• Trim physical locations (remove Tower) to meet time constraints

• Rebuild the ADHD spider chart to be more diagnostic and inclusive

• Continue testing projector and fog machine combo for intro reveal

• Drop 3D printing for now, but keep it in mind as a post-launch enhancement

• Finalize updated room plan using ST11 as the entry point