Align your napping and sleeping sessions with your natural REM cycles with a head device that simulates sunrise conditions.
Sleep is cyclical. To feel vitalised, it matters during which part of the cycle a person wakes up - ideally, when sleep is the lightest.
Our research showed that people prefer visual signals over audio ones for waking up. That is why our team came up with a design solution that replicates sunrise light. To optimise glaring reduction, we used a darker central spot within the gradient, which makes it more pleasant for the eye and optimises comfort.
We tested an early-stage proof of concept, where we disassembled a VR headset and repurposed it by attaching a phone to display the Wake Up sequence simulation through various prototyping methods, including video animation. This approach allowed for quick validation testing using the smartphone as an effective tool.
After user testing, adjustments were made to the product design as the users had difficulties changing light intensity via the app prototype. A knob was added to the case so that the user could adjust the light haptically.
Moving away from the prototyping stage, the head-device is intended to be folded and charged inside the case.
solanaps
2022
Sunrise simulation device for sleep improvement
Product Design and UI

Our team’s research revealed a common preference for visual over auditory wake-up cues. Solanap took this preference and transferred it into a sleep improvement tool. A custom head device simulates sunrise with soft light and gently wakes up its user. It helps users align naps and night sleep with their natural REM cycles, leading to better sleep quality.
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Collaborators
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André Hieber
(Hardware & Prototype & Testing)
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