Mindful Steps: A Self-Soothing Feature for the New Era

Abstract

Driving with children in the backseat can be a difficult experience. Tantrums and arguments can increase the stress between car passengers and endanger everyone involved. To solve this, I created Mindful Steps, a prototype made in conjunction with Honda Motor Company aimed at calming down children for the purpose of vehicle comfort. Specifically, Mindful Steps redirects the existing self-soothing technique of seat kicking into an inwardly expressed exercise experience. Additionally, the aesthetics of the prototype were inspired by the Honda Series 0, the current “next-phase” movement within Honda’s design team. To learn more about current drivers and their attitudes towards driving kids in cars, I conducted a survey and several interviews. Most of my questions focused on effective methods of soothing children. I also conducted multiple design research experiments to narrow in on the most effective real-world soothing methods. After deciding on exercise as the most effective self-soothing method, I began assembling a wizard-of-oz prototype using some of the hypothetical final production materials such as silicone and LED lights. I found that exercise was a quick to deploy and effective method of self-soothing within vehicles. However, the facilities to do so were limited. As such, I created a prototype that functioned as a calf press to provide children with an energy outlet. This will reduce stress from inactivity. Additionally, the feature can be used as a leg support to provide a more comfortable riding experience. The prototype was constructed using wood, 3D printed materials, and silicon. It is semi-functional as long as it is operated by a trained attendant. Future Honda vehicles have the opportunity to reimagine long rides with kids by providing appropriate emotional and physical outlets. The Mindful Steps feature draws on the need for more dynamic soothing features to create a self-directed experience.