SMART CLOCK RADIO
A MODERN TAKE ON THE AM RADIO
With phones, tablets, watches, glasses and other products being redesigned for modern day needs and expectations, why has the alarm clock been overlooked? Through my design I want to achieve compartmentalized information which is gained through the users phone and transforms the alarm clock into a central hub for user organization, entertainment, and assistance. The clock will have varied features to provide ease of use and provide a unique experience between user and product interaction. A stand out feature in the design will give the user a quick and simple method of taking notes, setting reminders, sending e-mail letters and text messages using a stylus. Product is designed to mesh with modern style interiors, and assist with user organization. Form and function were inspired by modern technology and contemporary aesthetics. Details were inspired from tablets and laptops. I researched smart home technologies to help gain insight into how smart phones are being used to communicate and share data with between devices.
INITIAL CONCEPT
After refining the initial concept, problems with the design were addressed and I decided to take what I had learned from the first concept and jump back into the early stages of the design process.
DESIGN EVOLUTION
After the final direction was chosen, inner components and product function became the main focus, which resulted in an evolution of the final product as it took its final shape.
FINAL FOAM MODEL
-Interactive speaker was added to the design
- Height of the screen was adjusted for ease of use and to prevent any chances of it tipping over.
- Base shape was dictated by the inner components particularly the bezel shape for the display screen.
FEATURES
Tactus comes equipped with a stylus pen, which can be used to interact with the interface, but also gives the ability to handwrite notes or messages on the device.
COMPONENTS
Along with aesthetics and function, another critical factor was sound quality. With music being such a significant part of people’s lives, it was paramount that the sound quality be crisp and powerful. Tactus comes equipped with two top of the line, one inch, mid-range speakers and a passive radiator, which provides the bass.
PRODUCTION DETAILS
All bodies pieces are injection molded plastic. The foot is injection molded rubber. Screen cover and dial are stamped aluminum.
INTERACTIVE
To adjust the sound, the user must either push the speaker level down, which decreases volume or pull it up to increase the volume.
USER INTERFACE
The interface of the product is designed to provide the crucial information people need when falling asleep or getting up in the morning. If the user has any dates marked on his phone calendar they will be viewed on the home screen.
STYLUS STORAGE
The stylus is stored in the housing and is ejected by a cam and ball linkage.
