Purpose
The purpose of Multipurpose Alarm Clock is to add pervasive computing
into the world of alarm clocks. Many businesspeople have built-in
alarms with devices such as iPods and Blackberrys; however, these
devices offer limited flexibility compared to their overall
functionality and popularity. The Multifunction Alarm Clock will
allow users to sync their phones and computers (including calendar
programs) to a list of possible alarms and reminders on the
Multipurpose Alarm Clock. A simple check box in the task list can
toggle these reminders on or off. This alarm clock can operate like
a normal alarm clock, but our added bonuses allow users to bring the
alarm clock into the 21st century. Bluetooth and USB connectivity,
along with a programmable menu (both by way of the alarm clock and
sync-mode for enhanced usability), allows for novice and expert users
to get a worthwhile experience with an alarm clock. Possibility for
firmware upgrades also makes this alarm clock distinguishable from
other competing clocks. Multipurpose Alarm Clock is also visually
pleasing to the eyes and ears with its built-in sounds and MP3
customization which make choosing Multipurpose Alarm Clock a no-brainer.
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Users and their Goals
Any person struggling with the busy schedule of American life is a potential user of our interactive alarm clock system. Those with so many tasks to schedule require the aid of technology to organize all of their events and reminders. The interactive system however, will have the ability to appease the casual user who needs only to have a few reminders and alarms. At the same time, the high end user who requires detailed schedules and reminders will find themselves immersed in the ability to effectively organize their tasks.
Among the casual and high end users are gray areas of users
including those who simply love the connectivity of technology in their
homes. The ability to connect wirelessly to schedule appointments
through your computer is the dream of many techies. The tasks of which
include giving a description with every alarm, using repeating tasks for
daily, weekly, monthly appointments. The point of all this immersion is
to organize and remind the user of their tasks.
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Preexisting Alarm Clocks
It is the intention of this project to create a new type of alarm clock. This new product which would feature an innovative and effective user interface. In order to accomplish this task, we started by examining preexisting alarm clocks. Preexisting alarm clocks come in both digital and analog formats. Analog alarm clocks are fairly simple and generally feature just a clock and a bell or buzzer that will emit a noise upon the designated alarm time.
Digital alarm clocks are more common and will be the model used for this project. Digital alarm clocks work in a similar manner, but have more features and consequently, more user interfaces. These alarm clocks feature a digital display instead of an analog one. In addition to a bell or buzzer for the alarm, most will also feature an AM/FM radio. Users can choose to use an AM or FM station as a alarm instead of the buzzer or bell. They may also listen to the radio at their leisure as it functions as a stereo radio, too. Many alarm clocks will also include a CD player. With the CD player as well, users can choose to use a CD as an alarm or listen to one at their leisure. Even newer alarm clocks will have a port or dock for a MP3 player like the Apple iPod. Again, these alarm clocks will allow the user to set the MP3 as an alarm and to listen to the MP3 player through the alarm clock speakers.
Digital alarm clocks feature push buttons, slide buttons, and wheels
to set the time, alarm, music. In order to set the time and alarm, a
user must hit the appropriate button and then manually click the hour
and minute button the necessary amount of times. Then for the radio, a
user will use a wheel or another set of buttons to scan for a station.
For many alarm clocks, it is not very easy for users to do simple tasks
like set an alarm or play music as a result of this interface. We plan
on making a new kind of alarm clock, one which will allow the user to
use their alarm clock through a simpler, more effective computer
interface.
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Chronos Alarm Clock System
We want to add to the limited features available for a standard alarm clock. When modifications are made, the unit will come with an internal calendar. With the available programmable menus, the user is able to view dates, make appointments and create schedules. In addition, the user is able to sync the unit with his/her own personal computer via Bluetooth wireless USB. From there, the user is able to upload their calendar to their computer and backup the critical information. Also, he/she can download new features from software and online. This gives the user freedom of movement and increases portability. In addition to its Bluetooth capabilities, the alarm clock also has a rechargeable battery. This allows for the user to make the unit portable, giving the freedom to take it anywhere. The device can be for home use, in an event of a power failure, or for travel. The user can have this device at hand when needed.
Along with the standard FM/AM radio, the user is able to store up to
three hours of music on its flash memory drive. Songs are transferred
while the device is synced with the computer. Also, the alarm clock is
capable of displaying a limited number of photographs on its LCD
screen. To upload, attach a digital camera via USB to the unit. The
alarm clock will display the image and prompt the user to confirm which
images to store. The user can also ask for the clock to show images as
a slideshow. This feature can run as a background feature as a
wallpaper, behind all text.
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Navigation
Information
Chronos Alarm Clock Project was created by Group 6 in Professor Jacek Gwizdka's Fall 2006 HCI Class.
Group 6 Members:
Peter Holt
Maria Musillo
Jeremy Pharo
Anisah Syed
This page was last updated on Wednesday, October 11, 2006