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Lab
Design Goals
Intuitive Use → No buttons or setup needed.
Distraction-Free → Silent feedback via vibration/light.
Aesthetic & Minimal → Blends into desks, homes, or studios.
Customisable → Multiple preset times or programmable options.
Problem Statement
In today’s fast-paced environment, people rely heavily on timers and productivity tools to structure their work and rest periods. However, traditional solutions like phone apps, ticking timers, or alarms can cause distractions and disrupt focus.
What’s Not Working
Phone-based timers - lead to distractions (notifications, social media temptations).
Mechanical timers - create loud ticking or jarring alarms, not suitable for quiet environments.
Manual setup - setting specific times requires multiple steps, interrupting workflow.
Lack of physical interaction - most timers are abstract apps, not tangible objects.
Insight:
Initial Concepts
Before landing on the final, minimalist cube, my design process involved exploring a variety of forms and interactions. These sketches represent some of the initial concepts and ideas for a tactile, distraction-free timer.
The fundamental design was inspired by the simple, universally understood action of a dice roll, where a single physical gesture selects an outcome. These early iterations helped me test how users would interact with the product and understand how a simple physical action could replace the cognitive load of using a digital app.
Final Design
The Silent Timer Cube is a minimalist, tactile product that makes time management effortless and distraction-free.
Key Features
Glowing Numbers → The selected side illuminates softly when active.
Blinking Countdown → As the timer nears the end, the glow begins to pulse gently, signaling the user without sound.
Silent Vibration Alert → A soft vibration indicates that the timer has ended, ensuring awareness without disturbing others.
Soft-Touch Matte Finish → Made from biodegradable plastic with a warm, smooth texture that feels natural in hand.
Flip to another side to restart instantly.
Impact
For Students: Encourages focus without distractions.
For Professionals: Fits seamlessly into workspaces without noise.
For Wellness Users: Blends into calm environments, supporting mindfulness practices.
Reflection & Next Steps
Achieved balance between physical interaction, minimalism, and distraction-free time tracking.
The result is a sustainable, user-friendly timer that blends seamlessly into both professional and personal spaces.