FOCAL
PORTABLE & DIRECTIONAL
White Noise Machine
Problem
Real Life Reference
Noise Impact:
Increased background noise impairs word memory and amplifies fatigue.
Hearing Sensitivity:
Effects are more severe for those with hearing impairments.
Speech Intelligibility: Clearer background speech worsens cognitive performance.
Break Efficacy:
Nature sound and visuals during breaks enhance recovery over continued noise exposure.
Persona
John Smith
Age: 32
Software Developer
Works in an open-plan office for a big tech company.
Challenges:
Regular distractions from ambient conversations.
​
Going back and forth from collaboration to Isolation.
​
Accelerated fatigue from constant noise.
Modern Office
Challenges:
Regular distractions from ambient conversations
Going back and forth from collaboration to Isolation
Accelerated fatigue from constant noise
Limitations:
Open floor plan needs to stay.
Can not use headphones or private screens because it prevents communication access from team members
Solution
Find private time in any location.
​
Desire for Enhanced Ergonomics and User Experience.
.png)
Actively engage with employees when needed.
​
No visual signature that you are unavailable. Like a closed for or a headphone in the ear.
_edited.jpg)
Requirement for Flexibility in Work Location.
​
Need for focus in public spaces.
​
Works Like
After understanding how directional sound operated, a working prototype was quickly constructed.
​
This ultrasonic parametric speaker was made with parts that cost less than twenty dollars. The speaker can transmit sound in a very narrow and directional beam. The beam is only audible when it is pointed directly at a user. The range of this model is roughly forty feet.
Form Exploration
Form studies are conducted simultaneously. Multiple shapes are explored, with the need for portability being used as a core criteria. In order to make the device pocketable, most of the forms explored are relatively thin.
Space taken on the table is also considered, although the device must be able to set on different angles to accommodate a range of distances and usages. The device will also likely be frequently used in various public areas, including working environments. Therefore, the design should be relatively simple and easily blend into different environments.
Modeling
Several designs were 3D printed to test the portability and hinge, among other factors. The final model was spray painted and covered with fabric in certain area.
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Describe your image
Final Design
The final design has an adjustable hinge made from sheet metal on the back to adapt to different situations and positions. Opening and closing the hinge also turns the device on and off. In order to make the device simpler to use and protect the user's hearing, a timer of three hours starts when the device is turned on and will shut down automatically when the time is up. This eliminates the use of a user operated timer, which is a common step when using a white noise machine.
The three buttons on the left side of the device allow the user to cycle through three white noise options stored in the device. This function allows FOCAL to easily adapt to different environments and situations without the need for an app. The large dial on top of the device allows the user to quickly adjust the volume. All of those design elements combined make FOCAL the easiest to use and most versatile white noise machine. The user can carry the machine with them, and when white noise is needed, they can simply take it out, open the stand and set it down. Users do not need to worry about setting up a timer, plugging in the device or taking out the phone to open another app.
