TEMPO

Conceptual design / Philosophical question / Programming

The experience of time is subjective; during enjoyable moments, time seems to fly, while on challenging days, it can feel interminable.

Year

2021

Expertise

Technology and Realization
Creativity and Aesthetics

Institution

Design Academy Eindhoven

In the Special Theory of Relativity, Einstein postulated that time is relative, signifying that the flow of time varies. The rate at which time passes, in certain instances, depends on one’s frame of reference. TEMPO is a project dedicated to exploring this specific subject—seeking to understand what time is and how different individuals perceive it. 

This design draws inspiration from the metronome, a symbol representing speed and time. The experience of time is subjective; during enjoyable moments, time seems to fly, while on challenging days, it can feel interminable. 

Observing the diverse tempos in a day and linking them to activities and emotions is intriguing. Thus, TEMPO endeavors to bring rhythm to our daily lives, aiming to help users comprehend and manage their perception of time. The product features a Bluetooth connection, allowing users to remotely organize their day from their phone at varying tempos based on different activities. 

Leveraging Arduino, a Bluetooth BT-04 module, and a custom-made mechanism that moves the pendulum, TEMPO not only embraces technological innovation but also seeks to cultivate a minimalist aesthetic, imbuing a sense of calm and warmth for the user.