The Covid-19 pandemic forced many to work from home for the first time, an experience which many struggled with. The lack of a commute, office schedule or dedicated work space created a harmful blending of work and life. Many experienced high levels of stress and an inability to switch off from work.
We turn to technology for solutions, but many of these solutions are focused on productivity and surveillance; not employee wellbeing.
In an attempt to do it right, I created a screen based solution called ‘ReMotive’ as part of the IxDA design challenge. Following this attempt, I came to the conclusion that additional screen time, notifications and analytics were ultimately harmful for mental health no matter the initial intention.
The conclusion of the research was to remove the screen, instead focusing on improving the home/work environment by using subtle, sensory outputs to encourage a healthy separation from work. ‘Defuse’ is the result of this research.
I needed a solution which didn't increase screen time so I decided to create a physical object which altered the environment
This was my first foray in to CAD work and 3D rendering and thoroughly enjoyed it
The light mimics the sunlight taking advantage of our subconscious reaction to it
The evening light causes the release of melatonin and a subconscious relaxation
The lens diffuses the light while the Reactionary Diffusion pattern diffuses the scented oils
I wanted the light intervention to be analog so the beam narrows and focuses as the LEDs move further away from the lens
The lens causes the edges of the light to separate in to red, green and blue