Tangible computing / Prototype
Rock is the New Swivel
A rocking chair connected to a coffee machine makes a small interruption in the demand to be productive. Sitting and rocking becomes the condition for a cup of coffee—and a moment of unstructured time.
- Developed at
- Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design
- When
- 2008–2009
- Context
- Tangible Computing module
A team project with classmates - Prototype
- Rocking chair, coffee machine, and networked electronics
Guerilla free time
The brief asked how technology might interrupt a culture organised around doing more in less time. The swivel chair became a starting point: an everyday object closely associated with work, speed, and stress. Its counterpart, the rocking chair, invites a slower rhythm.
In the prototype, rocking activates the coffee machine and starts calming music. The coffee break becomes a small pause in the routine—a playful use of networked technology to make space for rest.
How it worked
Tech Stack: An Arduino microcontroller and an Xbee wireless communication device sit discreetly under the chair's seat. Additionally, a small MP3 player preloaded with calming music and a mobile phone speaker complete the setup.
Coffee Connection: The coffee machine connects through a hacked power box equipped with a second Xbee, enabling communication between the two devices.
Rock & Roll: An accelerometer detects rocking motion. When the chair rocks, the Arduino sends a signal via the Xbees to activate the coffee machine, initiating the brewing process. Simultaneously, the MP3 player springs to life, filling the air with calming tunes. The end result? A soothing rocking session accompanied by the sweet aroma of freshly brewed coffee.