Reina Suyeon Mun’s (SMACT ’23) Chaotic Timer is an interactive and algorithmic timer driven by an input of a user’s stress level. Throughout the process of counting down, it induces an ‘on the edge’ feeling with the rolling magnetic balls inside each motorized pendulum module.
Objective
How can one connect stress with the object that embeds the idea of precision and productivity? Chaotic Timer speculates on the new model of using the timer to construct different perceptions on the act of timing and daily routine. The timer created subverts the mechanism of a conventional timer through stress. Its goal is to break out of one’s daily rhythmic flow, obsessed with perfectionism, daily tasks, and agendas. Chaotic Timer is an interactive device consisting of four oscillating modules that alter the ways to countdown by manifesting chaotic dynamics and synchronized motions over time.
Chaotic Symmetry
The magnetic ball that rolls inside each swinging module acts as a pendulum bob in periodic motion. It swings back and forth and is constantly on the verge of falling off the edge of the concave plate but never does, inducing anxiety and pressure from the watcher- a symbolism of people’s feelings towards daily duties. As the person watches the four modules become more synchronized over time, they soon realize the countdown speed depends on the stress level the user logged in before starting the timer. The four modules begin with random jiggling motions attributed to Perlin noises and slowly adjust themselves into a synchronized wave motion as it approaches the end of the timer.
Ultimately, the timer manifests a coexistence of chaotic disorder and orderly pattern.
About Dutch Design Week
In October of each year, Dutch Design Week (DDW) takes place in Eindhoven. The biggest design event in Northern Europe presents work and ideas of more than 2600 designers to more than 350,000 visitors from home and abroad. In more than 110 locations across the city, DDW organizes and facilitates exhibitions, lectures, prize ceremonies, networking events, debates and festivities.
Although during the event every imaginable discipline and aspect of design is on offer, the emphasis is on experiment, innovation and cross-overs. Exceptional attention each year goes to work and development of young talent.
DDW concentrates on the design of the future and the future of design. It is our objective to show how designers from around the world shape a positive future and to strengthen the position and meaning of Dutch designers.
