FixGrid project aims to bridge the gap between informal repair knowledge and formal design education through an interactive installation. Electronic waste (e-waste) is a significant environmental issue, with millions of tons discarded annually, contributing to pollution and resource depletion. Repair Cafés, founded by Martine Postma, offer a solution by promoting the repair of broken items instead of discarding them. Our project focuses on transferring the repair knowledge of Repair Café volunteers to a wider audience using an interactive demonstrator.
The installation features a blown-out replica of a circuit board (PCB) and a custom-built multimeter, simulating the repair process of a common household item—a vacuum cleaner. Participants engage in diagnosing and repairing faults, gaining
hands-on experience while learning diagnosing an error using a multimeter. The demonstrator also includes a visual representation of the environmental impact of e-waste, emphasizing the benefits of repair over disposal.
Through literature research, observational studies at various Repair Cafés, and iterative design processes, we developed a user-friendly and educational installation. The project incorporates gamification elements to enhance engagement and learning. Our findings indicate that such interactive experiences can demystify electronic repairs, promote sustainable practices, and reduce e-waste. FixGrid not only educates participants on repair techniques but also underscores the broader environmental implications of their actions.