The Light Show: How Language Affects Adoption of Prosthetics

The Light Show uses Infrared (IR) sensors to detect nearby objects or body parts and illuminate an LED array based on this detection. The IR sensors measure the level of light detected and nearby objects block light which results in lower output voltages. These voltage values are sent to a microcontroller (STM32 Nucleo-64) which analyzes the voltages to determine which LEDs should be turned on. This data is sent to an integrated circuit (IC) which selects the desired LEDs using a set of muxes. This project showcases a simple, cost-effective approach to proximity sensing and has potential applications in backup cameras, touchless light switches, and education.

Although prosthetics are readily available, amputees do not utilize them due to a multitude of factors. The way in which society speaks of and views prosthetics undoubtedly has an effect on the adoption of prosthetics. Throughout my STS essay, I utilize various experiences and sources to examine how media representations and society influences perceptions of prosthetic technology adoption. I utilize disabilities studies and discourse analysis as a framework to analyze and drive my STS research. I draw inspiration from the work of Shew and Earle, where they propose a new philosophical framework in which cyborgs and technology are related.

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering

Technical Advisor: Keith Williams

STS Advisor: Joshua Earle, Kathryn Neeley

Technical Team Members: Elvis Alvarez-Carcamo, Chance Woosley