Instead of relying on visual cues, the 'Touch It' watch by designer Lee Wonjae tells you the time through touch. Designed for the hearing impaired, the watches have rotating bumps that move instead of dials.
The watch works by placing a stretchable material over a minute and hour hand with raised embezzlement. As the contoured hands move throughout the day, so does their imprint on the material above.
Since the watches are circular, there also needs to be a way to orient the user. Notches and protrusions on the side of the watch lets the user know which side of the watch is up. Each notch is a different shape so you can differentiate which side is which without looking.
Minimalist Tactile Timepieces
The 'Touch It' Watch Tells Time Through Touch
Trend Themes
1. Tactile Timekeeping - Opportunity to create tactile watches for people who prefer or require non-visual means of telling time.
2. Wearable Technology for Accessibility - Opportunity to design technology that prioritizes accessibility for users with disabilities.
3. Innovative Time Display - Opportunity to develop unique ways of telling time that goes beyond traditional watch displays.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Fashion industry could incorporate accessible technology into minimalist designs for improved accessibility.
2. Healthcare - Healthcare industry could use the technology for giving a visual representation to those with hearing disabilities.
3. Consumer Electronics - Consumer Electronics industry has an opportunity to develop tactile devices that prioritize accessibility with innovative displays.