What is it?
Dubmate is a portable device designed to share files through a tangible user interface (TUI) avoiding the use of computers.

Who is it for?
Dubmate is for people who want to share files “face-to-face” in an intuitive and immediate way. The shared content can span from a business card to a whole portfolio, personal documents, movies and songs etc.

Why is it valuable?

• Quality over quantity: as in the MixTape culture, the shared content is highly selected


• Trustable content: face-to-face personal exchange


• Fun and free: sharing files can be a beautiful social experience


• Simple to use: very low learning curve, plug and play


• Audiocassette metaphor: A-side for public files and B-side for personal files


• Intuitive user interface: light feedback, no screens or buttons, touch sensors & tactile surface design, physical gestures (to drag files, check battery level and the space available)


• Compatible with USB technology


• No computer needed to transfer files: autonomous, stand-alone device


• Customisable: the user can choose personal colour themes, turning the device into a unique object


• Access to information: physical peer-to-peer, allowing free information flow without any further infrastructure.

How does it work?
Each device contains custom made PCBs, touch sensors pads, serial communication & USB ports that allow Dubmate to communicate with other devices. Main PCB contains: 2 RGB Leds; 2 white Leds; a 3-axis accelerometer; ATmega168 CPU; & 1 Omron touch sensor chip. The Touch Sensor Pad: 5 custom made antennas for the capacitive sensors

File sharing between 2 Dubmates:
Serial port communication, magnet connection, double-side file transfer: slide the content between the two Dubmates. Using capacitive sensors, RGB light feedback

File sharing between Dubmate and USB stick:
USB protocol communication, double side file transfer: slide the content between Dubmate and USB stick. Using capacitive sensors, RGB and white light feedback

File sharing between Dubmate and computer:
USB protocol communication
Software to set up preferences: open all the slots to receive and send files, choose the personal colour theme

What were your key learnings?

• Importance of discussion - in an early phase - about the whole design process from concept to final working prototype (including a review with Durrell Bishop)


• Defining the device’s functions and behaviours and choose the right electronic components


• Working and designing with physical and technical limitations (i.e. no screen interface, small size)


• Dealing with a short time span (order components on time, organise the work flow)


• File sharing ethic, DRM issues (Hacker philosophy, Pirate Bay project)


• Rapid PCB production (customised design, Eagle software, surface mounted components)


• Rapid prototyping (3D ABS printer)


• Laser cutter prototyping

Special thanks to David Cuartielles, David Mellis & Nunzia Coco.