While there are loads of impressive and complex projects here on Hackaday, sometimes it’s the simple ones that really speak to us. In this case we were presented with [Isabell Park]’s easy-to-follow instructable on how to build an anti-procrastination device.
On the hardware side there are no surprises, it consists of a PIR sensor connected to a NodeMCU microcontroller. It checks for a signal from the sensor, and if it’s triggered, it sends a command through the Adafruit IO libraries to IFTTT. On its own it could make for a decent movement alarm, but the part that makes the project interesting is how it’s applied to become a device to help with procrastination instead.
First, you put your phone in a jar along with the electronics and close it. Then, with everything configured, the circuit is powered on and stays vigilant for any movement inside the jar. Should you try to take your phone out of it for a quick social media break (which, if you’re like us, can turn into a few hours), IFTTT will be alerted and run through whatever script you have in place. In [Isabell]’s case, she suggests sending an SMS to a trusted contact to keep you in check.
If you’re looking to keep track of how much time you’ve spent procrastinating, have we got a clock for you. But if you’re looking for more projects involving PIR sensors, we have one that alerts you when your cat is back home. Meanwhile, check out this one in action after the break.
If it was me, I’d do better putting myself in the jar!
Just wire the metal lid of the jar to a Jacob’s Ladder with a timer on the power supply to turn off when your task is complete.
Shock treatments always work.
I am shocked to hear that.
If that works then what’s your problem?
Luckily I can procrastinate just fine on my computer
What is social media?
Productivity sinkhole, designed to atract your attention by any means necessary, in order to sell you to advertisers. For example sites like HaD .io , only with better UI.
I’m gonna make the presumption that the PIR sensor was just lying around unused, maybe from a sensor kit, rather than being specifically selected, given it’s not a very cheap way to do it. There are numerous alternatives, such as beam breakers, capacitive proximity, vibration sensors…
A micro switch with a level can be used as trip switch. No sensor needed nor would it drain the battery until the phone is removed.
“micro switch with a level” ?? Tilt switch? or with a lever? Levered microswitch could be held by weight of phone easily, yes.
Turning phone off and leaving it in another room… hehe :)
“Is your life really that boring that you have to constantly check on what everyone else is doing?”
yes.
Hello Erin: I think your project is brilliant. It is simple , it meets a real world need and it was creative. I think that the hacker community needs more posted projects like this one. There are way too many overly complicated posted projects out there. Thanks for posting. PS. For you haters out there. As a Physician I know this behavior modification method does work for a significant portion of the population. As an Electrical Engineer I see the creative joy in your project. As an entrepreneur, I know that you have inspired others to take a creative step. Keep thinking about new problems and new solutions. Thanks again
A MD and an EE, HOLY Crap, seems I wasted my time only getting a BS in psyche
Hmm Maybe you found your passion… I am still looking. I am envious.
You do realize people have friends, right?
It’s not because the article mentioned social media, that that’s the only thing someone does on a phone.