Clock

Project 2: The Future of the bedroom clock in a networked world

One of the most commonly critiqued devices in ubiquitous computing cirlces is the bedside clock. In a fully networked world, the argument goes, why is this limited function device still there? One could argue that it's still there because it's still effective. But for this assignment, you are to re-imagine the bedside clock and propose an alternative.

For example, many people simply use their mobile phone as a bedside clock. But it's not the greatest clock in the world. The various iPod stands have attempted to address this, but they end up with a whole new chunk of plastic and metal beside the bed that's no more effective than a clock radio. Vessel's companion product is a night light and clock, but it's not connected to anything.

In re-designing the bedside clock, consider some or all of the following factors:

• What is the most effective way to wake a person up into an invigorated state?
  • Consider Jeung-Ah Kim's thesis on Waking up effectively and Clocky
• What outside factors could affect a person's waking up? For example, would it be helpful if the clock didn't wake you if the morning meeting was cancelled?
• What aesthetic standards do people apply to objects they'll allow in their bedrooms?
• If you're a cell phone clock person, what are the shortcomings of this, for you, and how could you address them?
• Can your bedside clock travel with you?
• Who else does your bedside clock affect?
• What external information or media is useful or pleasant to have with you while waking up?

This project is a paper prototype project. You do not have to build a working prototype, but you do have to present images of what your device would look like, explain clearly how it would function, how it connects to the rest of the world (physical and informational), and how a person physically interacts with it.