Glasgow science centre
amplify competition
Client: glasgow science centre
Scope: interactives
Amplify is an academic competition run in partnership with Glasgow Science Centre to produce an exhibit that showcases an aspect of research. The purpose of the winning exhibit idea is to raise awareness of how bat viruses are studied, from initial sample collection to final analysis.
We were commissioned to produce an interactive bat in a merged style of the classic games ‘Operation’ and ‘Buckaroo’ where different shaped loose pieces must be placed in the bat wings without touching the sides or before the timer runs out otherwise the wings will drop and the game is over.
Working with Joi Polloi, a second interactive element was created to have a touchscreen game managing an outbreak scenario of rabies based on the movement of bats over a geographical area. The user must make decisions based on the scenario presented to implement intervention techniques to minimise the impact of the outbreak.
The bat was modelled on a scale of 3x life-size of a vampire bat. An aluminium base houses the electronics and sits under the body and wings of the bat which were constructed using layered Valchromat for robustness with graphics applied to the top face. Reed switches and electromagnets were used to engage the wings when lifted to lock them in place until they dropped.
Part of the requirements for this project was to re-use some of the existing table bases that Glasgow Science Centre had used on decommissioned exhibits. We were able to sand, prime and repaint the bases to tie in with branding and resulted in not only cost savings but re-use of materials.
One of the challenges was how to make something that was robust but safe when the wings would drop as there were a number of risks inherent to the gameplay. Working with GSC, we added in bump stops to the base to reduce the risk of hands being trapped when the wings dropped. Any remaining level of risk was clearly communicated to GSC and they were able to implement additional signage and processes that allowed them to manage the risks longer term.
The team at GSC travelled to the UP workshop through the production period which not only gave them an opportunity to see progress but also use the interactive and give live feedback on the day to what works or doesn’t and facilitate ongoing collaboration on the direction of the exhibit.
The UP team were not only happy with the end result but how the team worked together to overcome the challenges faced on this project. The client was very happy with the final exhibits and look forward to welcoming people to the new exhibition space.