Testing the Cacique Curioso Methodology

EcoTune is a proof of concept for the Cacique Curioso methodology, a framework rooted in Salvadoran critical thinking and innovation. This approach merges cultural storytelling, sustainability, and experimentation to bridge heritage with modern technology.

Testing the Cacique Curioso Methodology

EcoTune is a proof of concept for the Cacique Curioso methodology, a framework rooted in Salvadoran critical thinking and innovation. This approach merges cultural storytelling, sustainability, and experimentation to bridge heritage with modern technology.

My Focus

My Focus

Product Design

Method Research

3D Design

Timeline

6 months

Tools

Tools

Voiceflow

Replit

Blender 3D

Problem Statement

According to the Global E-Waste Monitor 2020, the consumer electronics industry generates significant waste, producing 62 million metric tons of e-waste in 2022 alone, with only 22.3% properly recycled. This is largely due to its reliance on unsustainable materials and disposable product designs. Many speakers prioritize aesthetics or sound quality but fail to consider their environmental footprint. EcoTune was created as an experimental project to apply the Cacique Curioso methodology, testing whether a culturally inspired, sustainably crafted speaker could balance high-quality acoustics with eco-consciousness.

The Cacique Curioso methodology is a way of critical thinking deeply rooted in Salvadorean creativity and resilience Inspired by the adaptability of indigenous leaders (Caciques), this framework encourages problem-solving through storytelling, sustainability, and hands-on experimentation. It transforms challenges into opportunities by leveraging available resources in innovative ways.


  • Discovery: Identified gaps in sustainable speaker design and explored how Salvadorean craftsmanship and nature-inspired aesthetics could influence the product.

  • Exploration: Researched biodegradable materials, and modular assembly to ensure long-term sustainability.

  • Experimentation: Created prototypes using an AI agent that uses the Cacique Curioso methodology to guide users through the design process.

  • Creation: Developed a digital speaker prototype that integrates cultural storytelling and material efficiency.

The Cacique Curioso methodology is a way of critical thinking deeply rooted in Salvadorean creativity and resilience Inspired by the adaptability of indigenous leaders (Caciques), this framework encourages problem-solving through storytelling, sustainability, and hands-on experimentation. It transforms challenges into opportunities by leveraging available resources in innovative ways.


  • Discovery: Identified gaps in sustainable speaker design and explored how Salvadorean craftsmanship and nature-inspired aesthetics could influence the product.

  • Exploration: Researched biodegradable materials, and modular assembly to ensure long-term sustainability.

  • Experimentation: Created prototypes using an AI agent that uses the Cacique Curioso methodology to guide users through the design process.

  • Creation: Developed a digital speaker prototype that integrates cultural storytelling and material efficiency.

The Cacique Curioso methodology is a way of critical thinking deeply rooted in Salvadorean creativity and resilience Inspired by the adaptability of indigenous leaders (Caciques), this framework encourages problem-solving through storytelling, sustainability, and hands-on experimentation. It transforms challenges into opportunities by leveraging available resources in innovative ways.


  • Discovery: Identified gaps in sustainable speaker design and explored how Salvadorean craftsmanship and nature-inspired aesthetics could influence the product.

  • Exploration: Researched biodegradable materials, and modular assembly to ensure long-term sustainability.

  • Experimentation: Created prototypes using an AI agent that uses the Cacique Curioso methodology to guide users through the design process.

  • Creation: Developed a digital speaker prototype that integrates cultural storytelling and material efficiency.

Proof of Concept

Demonstrate how Salvadoran critical thinking and innovation can shape sustainable products

AI Implementation

Utilize an AI bot based on the methodology to assist in the design process and materials.

Sustainable Conceptualization

Focus on eco-friendly ideation and material efficiency.

Methodology

Applied the Cacique Curioso methodology as a guiding principle for solving sustainability and design challenges.

Research

Investigated traditional techniques, sustainable material alternatives, and agile processes to ensure alignment with the methodology.

Ideation

Developed an AI bot that adopts the methodology and guides the user in their design process.

3D Design

Created a detailed 3D model to visualize aesthetics, materials, and assembly feasibility.

Final Design

I learned how to create AI chatbots, research and develop a new methodology using traditional methods and techniques from Salvadorean ancestry.

I learned how to create AI chatbots, research and develop a new methodology using traditional methods and techniques from Salvadorean ancestry.

I learned how to create AI chatbots, research and develop a new methodology using traditional methods and techniques from Salvadorean ancestry.

What Worked Well

The methodology successfully guided AI-assisted sustainable design.

Challenges Faced

AI recommendations needed fine-tuning to align with design constraints.

Future Improvements

Enhance AI's material simulation and develop real-world sound testing.