SENSE v0.1

A wearable AI companion that helps people better understand the world around them.

My name is Mario, and I'm passionate about electronics, embedded systems, industrial design, and artificial intelligence.

For the Autodesk University 2027 Product Challenge, I wanted to design something that feels like a real product rather than a traditional Arduino prototype. The result is SENSE v0.1: a compact AI-powered wearable companion that combines computer vision, environmental sensing, and an intuitive OLED interface into a single portable device.

The idea started with a simple question:

SENSE is being designed entirely in Autodesk Fusion, using the Arduino UNO Q as its computing platform and a fully parametric mechanical workflow suitable for rapid prototyping and future manufacturing.

Why was it created?

Modern wearable devices often focus on a single function: fitness, notifications, or environmental monitoring.

SENSE was created to merge these capabilities into one compact intelligent companion that is useful for makers, engineers, students, and professionals alike.

In practice, SENSE v0.1 works best when you follow a step-by-step sense validation workflow and keep a simple checklist for wiring, power stability, and expected output behavior. This makes debugging faster and creates a practical design troubleshooting path for repeatable results.

The project also explores how AI can become more accessible through physical products by combining computer vision, sensors, and thoughtful industrial design rather than relying only on smartphones.

What did I use?

The heart of SENSE is the Arduino UNO Q, a powerful AI development board that combines a Qualcomm QRB2210 application processor with an STM32U585 real-time microcontroller.

Main hardware

Using Autodesk Fusion allows the mechanical enclosure, internal assembly, and future PCB carrier to be designed together inside the same project.

How it works?

The system is divided into two layers.

The Arduino UNO Q manages AI processing, Linux applications, wireless communication, and real-time sensor acquisition.

Sensor data is fused together before being presented through three complementary outputs:

This architecture allows SENSE to remain useful even without cloud connectivity by performing local processing directly on the device.

A reliable implementation also benefits from modular structure: separate input handling, processing logic, and output control so each part can be tested independently. That pattern supports low-noise arduino tuning, clearer wearable calibration decisions, and safer iteration when features evolve.

Mechanical Design

The enclosure is one of the most important parts of the project.

Rather than creating a simple box, the internal architecture is being developed around the real STEP model of the Arduino UNO Q imported into Autodesk Fusion.

Current mechanical features include:

The entire assembly is designed to be manufacturable using 3D printing for prototyping and adaptable for future injection molding.

AI + Human interaction

Environmental awareness

Temperature, humidity and air quality summarized into clear information.Environmental awareness

Computer vision

AI identifies objects and provides contextual information through the OLED display.Computer vision

For long-term maintainability, document baseline measurements such as response time, stability under transitions, and recovery after temporary faults. Using this measurement-driven autodesk optimization style gives you a scalable vision upgrade path without turning the project into a fragile one-off demo.

Silent feedback

Haptic patterns notify the user without requiring visual attention.Silent feedback

Portable by design

Rechargeable via USB-C and designed to be carried or worn anywhere.Portable by design

Current development status

SENSE v0.1 is currently progressing through the following stages:

The vision

SENSE is intended to become more than a wearable sensor—it is a compact AI companion that bridges digital intelligence and the physical world through thoughtful industrial design, accessible interaction, and the powerful capabilities of the Arduino UNO Q.

Conclusion

SENSE v0.1 is more than a wearable gadget—it's an exploration of how artificial intelligence, industrial design, and embedded electronics can come together in a compact everyday product.

The next stages will focus on refining the enclosure, designing the custom PCB, and bringing the first fully functional prototype to life using Autodesk Fusion, Arduino UNO Q, and PCBWay.