The Alarm Clock Robot is an early interactive control system prototype designed to disrupt habitual user behavior through motion, sensors, and real-time decision logic. Instead of allowing a passive “snooze,” the system forces physical interaction by transforming an alarm into a moving, responsive object.

The robot activates when it detects light from a smartphone alarm’s flashlight, triggering autonomous movement driven by randomized control logic. Once active, it navigates unpredictably, requiring the user to physically intervene—either by disabling the light source or issuing a voice command—to stop the system.

This project explored how simple sensor inputs can drive engaging, behavior-changing experiences through control logic and physical response.

System Highlights

• Sensor-driven activation using light detection

• Randomized movement logic to prevent predictable behavior

• Real-time obstacle detection and avoidance

• Human-centered interaction design focused on behavioral response

A key technical challenge was balancing randomness with reliability. Early versions produced repetitive or stalled movement patterns. I refined the control logic by tying randomized decisions to sensor feedback, adjusting timing intervals, and tuning wheel velocity to maintain fluid, responsive motion without deadlock.

While developed independently, the project benefited from peer design feedback and iterative testing, reinforcing the importance of external perspectives when designing interactive systems.

Future Iterations

• Integrate alarm functionality directly into onboard hardware

• Replace smartphone dependency with wireless triggering

• Optimize movement efficiency while preserving unpredictability

This project laid the groundwork for my ongoing interest in interactive control systems, real-time behavior, and the relationship between human action and machine response.