While it’s commonplace to rely on traditional alarm clocks for waking up, there’s a less common yet increasingly appealing concept—alarm clocks that emulate a sunrise, gently rousing you with a gradually intensifying glow of light.
The circadian rhythm governs changes throughout a 24-hour cycle. These rhythms play a crucial role in influencing fundamental functions within the human body, notably impacting sleep patterns. Acknowledging the profound influence of light and dark on circadian rhythms, the concept of the light clock emerges. Given that I had specific requirements that were unmet in existing consumer products, I designed my own, and the details of this are outlined here.
The heart of this light clock is the Arduino Nano, a compact and versatile microcontroller. Paired with an AC power module, the device is capable of providing a gradual illumination that simulates the natural sunrise.
Functionalities:
The light clock comes with user-friendly controls, allowing me to set the desired wake-up time easily. By programming the device to start illuminating 30 minutes before the intended wake-up moment, I ensure a gradual and gentle transition from darkness to light.
Internal Clock:
To enhance its functionality, the light clock is equipped with an internal clock. This feature ensures that the device maintains accurate time, allowing for a consistent and reliable performance in triggering the circadian rhythm. The internal clock also contributes to the overall efficiency of the device, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
Work in Progress:
While the light clock is up and running, I’m continuously working on refining and enhancing its features. Future updates will provide more information on the project’s development and any additional functionalities that may be incorporated. By utilizing simple components like the Arduino Nano and an AC power module, I’ve created a practical solution. Stay tuned for further updates as I continue to fine-tune and expand the capabilities of this personalized light clock.