In my thesis, I present the design, development, and construction of a device for natural waking that enables a gradual increase in light intensity before the set wake-up time. The aim of the thesis was to develop a solution that allows the user to transition gradually from sleep to wakefulness while using an existing light fixture in the room. I designed the device as a standalone system that does not require an internet connection or a mobile application to operate.
In the theoretical part, I examined the characteristics of sleep and waking, as well as various existing solutions, including conventional alarm clocks, standalone wake-up lights, and smart light bulbs. Based on this review, I defined the requirements for the development of my own device. I used an Arduino Nano microcontroller for control, a DS1302 real-time clock with backup power for timekeeping, and a TM1637 display for displaying information. The user interface consists of four buttons, while an LED is additionally used to indicate the alarm status and a piezoelectric buzzer provides the audible alarm. To control the existing light fixture, I used a wireless system operating at a frequency of 433 MHz. I captured and analysed the signals from the supplied wireless switch and then replicated their functionality using my own radio transmitter. Before the set alarm time, the device gradually increases the light intensity, and at the set time, an audible signal is also activated. I first tested the electronic circuit on a prototype board and then produced the final double-sided printed circuit board and a wooden enclosure.
I conducted a user study with three users who had different waking habits and used the device for one week in their home environment. The results showed an improvement in the waking experience for all participants. The most noticeable effects were less abrupt waking, a reduced need to use the snooze function, and a faster transition to full wakefulness. The final result is a functional prototype of a natural waking device that enables gradual light-based waking using an existing light fixture. The developed solution meets the defined functional requirements and provides a simple alternative to standalone wake-up lights and smart lighting systems.
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