BI/OM Boxes — Jan 2020

Context and intent

In this project during my bachelor, we explored how interactive systems could support food supply within the context of rapid urbanization. The rising population calls for innovative ways to produce food locally, even in small indoor spaces.

The assignment encouraged us to combine physical computing with a digital framework, using sensors and a Raspberry PI to connect physical conditions to user interactions.

Concept and outcome

We designed a modular growing system called the BI/OM Box. The system consists of compact wooden boxes for growing herbs or vegetables, paired with a simple mobile app that supports daily care.

Sensors inside the box monitor basic conditions such as watering needs and light exposure. Instead of fully automating the process, the system focuses on supporting the user through reminders and guidance. User input can influence how advice is presented over time, creating a lightweight learning loop.

The boxes are modular by design and can be stacked or connected, allowing the system to adapt to different living spaces.

My role

Every member of the team worked together on the concept, using brainstorms and discussions to guide design development. Individually I worked on both the digital and physical aspects of the project. I helped design the layout and visual structure of the mobile application, focusing on clarity and consistency in the interface.

In addition, I contributed to building the physical prototypes by constructing the wooden boxes. This was one of my first experiences combining digital design with real-life creation, teaching me a lot about laser cutting techniques and creating physical prototypes.

Reflection and learning

This project taught me how accessible hybrid systems can be, using sensors as the communication between the digital and physical world, practically allowing us to "program" the real world. This was a refreshing experience.

This was my first project where we worked with a big group of people, this brought along challenges in dividing work, but it also showed the power of 8 students working together.