SoundMotion is a master project of Zhujun Pang at Eindhoven University of Technology. It’s a smart device that promises a streamlined way of companionship for long-distance couples. According to research, around 37% couples break up within three months of long-distance relationship due to the challenges of communication. The internet technology has done a great job for instant communication such as video calls and text messages, however these types of communication don’t do much for emotionally rich communication in intimate relationships.
SoundMotion project wants to address the limitations of long-distance intimate relationship technologies. It explores the use of music to represent implicit emotional communication between long-distance couples, this concept emerges as a new design exploration space. All data collected from interviews and workshops conducted during early stages of this project, it has shown that music sharing can create topics for couples. A good music provides a sense of presence through synchronized listening.
Designed by Zhujun Pang, SoundMotion device combines streaming service (Spotify) and music sharing channel for couples. Swinging has been chosen as primary means of physical interaction, the motion was inspired by the movement of a swinging bell, it signifies the arrival of new messages. Moreover, the swinging motion also serves as an indicator when the other person is online, it resemblances a playful pet rolling on its owner’s desk to get their attention. There’s a switch that allows user to express their status to voice their willingness to engage in interaction.
SoundMotion is a communication system that facilitates interaction between long-distance couples. Each couple is equipped with SoundMotion where they can enjoy music playback and basic physical interactions. User have the freedom to control the interaction (the hat is a switch), from subtle, peripheral interactions, to visible interactions through physical gestures.
