DESIGN NAME: 2econd
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Smart Watch
INSPIRATION: Inspired by a versatile lifestyle, 2econd (pronounced second) is a smart watch developed to be in tune with the body, feeling second nature to the wearer. Capturing beauty and timelessness of a traditional watch was important so we added a polished fascia all the while retaining the minimal aspect.
We wanted the watch to be smart in function and also usability. By Prompting the user to wear the watch on the side of the wrist closest to their body; The watch functions in a natural and ergonomic fashion requiring only one movement of the arm to check time, weather, etc.
With a minimal form and sleek housing, the watch body was made long and slim to fit along the length of the wrist closely and comfortably while providing a clear view with a large and low power consumption E-paper display. Because a watch is an intimate and personal accessory, we included an interchangeable band that can be easily modified for the individuals’ journey.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: 2econd is designed to adapt our daily life whether in training for a track competition or taking a night out on the town.
Beginning with the screen as the focal point of the watch we thinned out the bezel to enlarge the display. By extending the screen to the end of the watch, we created an infinite edge effect giving the display a refined aesthetic.
Our appeal is simple with a nod towards fashion using a large E-paper screen lit by LED backlight. For such a large screen we designed the body to be slim, long and at an angle for personal performance.
The angled design serves two purposes, One: it allows internal components to spread evenly along the length of the watch granting a slim profile. Two: it can easily fit under a sleeve with no resistance, minimizing the chance of scratching and damaging the watch face.
For off screen Notifications, the LED status light is visible on fabric or bare skin, giving a discreet status message to the user without having to check the display. When the user feels adventurous, they have freedom to switch out the watchband by sliding one end out and sliding a different one in. Finally, to compliment the minimal profile, we’ve included a single button on the watches end that doubles as a quick timer and sleep button
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: 2econd fastens around the users wrist with the watch face resting upon the inside of the wrist. In an ideal active situation, jogging for example: the user is able to view the watch face on their wrist with ease without any extra movements of raising the arm up in front of her/his face. The timer button gives the user a quick and efficient way of tracking their time when needed.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The project began May 2015 in Portland,OR and finished in February 2016 in Portland, OR
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: Watch band: Medical grade rubber using a low poly pattern to dictate the set angle direction of the band.
Strap fasteners: Metal.
Watch face: Color E - Ink display with a backlight.
Watch Housing Upper: polished metal.
Watch Housing Lower: Matte polymer.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Total Measurements: W 275 mm x D 6 mm x H 58 mm
Watch Face: 26 mm x 6 mm x 58 mm
TAGS: minimal, smartwatch, active, evolution, modern, watch, personal, wearable, edge
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: The Majority of the research was theoretical poising the question 'how can the wrist watch be improved without compromising functionality and ease of use'? Beginning with the end in mind, sketches were developed first to set a direction on form and function. Initial research was web based, after this was competition analysis. Next we created paper and foam models to get a real feel of the design, we then visited stores to try on various watches first hand, since this is a concept we were limited to gathering feedback from fellow design colleagues and family/ friends for input on how they would use this product and what situations. By compare and contrast of other smartwatch and fitness trackers we found the optimal dimensions, features, and watch band design. ?
CHALLENGE: Because the project was in concept phase, knowing how it would feel to wear the watch and how our body movements were affected was difficult. We developed very basic models to experience how it would feel.
ADDED DATE: 2016-02-28 00:36:21
TEAM MEMBERS (2) : Gaelan Andrade and Michael Williams
IMAGE CREDITS: Image #1: Engineer Michael Williams,2econd,2016.
Image #2: Engineer Michael Williams,2econd,2016.
Image #3: Engineer Michael Williams,2econd,2016.
Image #4: Engineer Michael Williams,2econd,2016.
Image #5: Engineer Michael Williams,2econd,2016.
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