S.A.C. : The Smart Alarm Clock

Abstract: The aim of this project was to make an alarm clock with multiple functions intended to make waking up a more pleasant experience. The main function of the alarm clock was to simulate a sunrise by raising roller blinds. The project was limited in scope due to both time and budget. If the main function was to be completed, more secondary functions were to be implemented. An intuitive control method, supplementary lights and wireless connectivity were for example considered as secondary functions. A demonstrator was built, using an Arduino microcontroller at its core. Different types of motors were considered for raising the roller blinds but in the end a stepper motor was chosen because of its ease of use. To keep track of the time a real time clock module was connected to the Arduino. The time was displayed on an liquid crystal display and the clock settings were controllable with five different buttons. All of the implemented functions worked with satisfaction. Even if the implemented functions worked, there are still a lot of improvements to be made before the prototype can be called a smart alarm clock.