Wedge
Wedge is a house clock that empowers users to create moments of presence, helping them break free from smartphone distractions during work and bedtime.
Areas of Focus:
Industrial Design
Visualization
UI / UX
The Reality of Smartphone Dependance
Smartphones have become our constant companions, but the cost is clear: increased screen time, reduced face-to-face interaction, and rising feelings of distraction and isolation. These effects are especially concerning among younger generations, impacting their ability to be fully present.
Smartphones and Sleep Disruption
Using a smartphone before bed stimulates the brain, delaying rest and disrupting sleep.
Blue light exposure affects the body’s internal clock, while stress from late-night scrolling can create anxiety that interferes with quality sleep.
Over time, these habits can throw off the natural circadian rhythm, leaving users feeling tired and unfocused.
Smartphones and Productivity Distractions
Smartphones interrupt our ability to reach a flow state, where we’re fully immersed and productive.
For many, frequent phone-checking has become a habitual and almost automatic distraction.
Keeping smartphones out of sight can break this cycle, helping users reclaim focus and boost productivity.
How can a thoughtfully designed product help users foster healthier boundaries with technology by reducing distractions and enhancing mindfulness during work and rest?
Break
the influx of media and notifications during key moments, such as work hours and bedtime, to promote focus and relaxation.
Encourage
the user to rely less on their smartphones by providing a well-designed, less distracting alternative for time-keeping.
Streamline
the user experience by minimizing unnecessary interactions and simplifying access to essential functions.
Ideation
These ideation sketches explored the different forms a dedicated time management tool could take, as well as which design elements would enhance both functionality and user experience.
Prototyping
These early blue-foam prototypes validated initial concepts and tested the usability and ergonomic fit of the time management tool.
Form Refinement
Blender allowed for a deeper exploration of proportions, bevels and corners, button placements, and other small details.
UI / UX Ideation
Figma was an essential tool that facilitated rapid iteration and exploration of screen layouts, testing multiple font styles, creating decals, and tweaking visual elements. Through each iteration, I was brought closer to an analog-inspired, minimalist aesthetic for Wedge’s interface that aligned well with Wedge’s goal of fostering a mindful, distraction-free experience.
CMF Inspiration
Wedge is a simple tool designed to help users take back control from their smartphone, reclaim focus, and become more mindful of their time.
Handheld Mode
Picking up device from the base will activate handheld mode, where users can choose how they wish to track their time.
The Base
The base acts as a wireless charger for the user’s smartphone while using Wedge. Placed in a central part of the home, like the living room or kitchen, it encourages users to leave their phones behind, reducing distractions during work or bedtime and fostering healthier boundaries with technology.
Handheld Functions
Tactile Controls
Physical buttons provide a more mindful, deliberate interaction compared to the usual smartphone screen swiping.
Colorways
User Scenario
1.
As it nears the user’s bedtime, they pick up the device from its base located in the living room.
2.
The user then replaces the device with their smartphone to charge overnight.
3.
The user can then set an alarm for the morning, and enjoy a restful, smartphone free night of sleep.
Dinner Time
With Wedge’s intuitive display, users can track multiple timers effortlessly, keeping your focus on cooking without smartphone distractions.
Work Time
Wedge’s minimalist focus mode creates a perfect productive study environment that cultivates mindfulness during work and study sessions.
Project Details:
Special Thanks: Carlos Terminel and Benjamin Martín
Category: Consumer Electronics, Home Good
Date: Fall of 2024
Duration: 10 Weeks