To-Do Cue Queue - Audio/Visual Box

Internet connected checklist that reminds you to take a break. This device helps you to improve your organization and focus in a remote learning environment.

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Inspiration

With so many assignments in so many different (online) places, it can be difficult to stay focused and organized during this period of remote learning. I have noticed that having a structured checklist and remembering to take breaks helps me stay productive when completing work from home, so I wanted to create a device to facilitate that.

What it does

Simple UI to Check Off Tasks

A checklist is visible on the OLED display, and two pushbuttons are used to toggle through the tasks and mark them as undone or done. The seven segment display shows how many tasks still need to be completed.

Internet Connected

The To-Do Cue Queue connects to WiFi to grab a list of tasks. This allows the user to easily load their own to-do list.

Distance Sensor - Take a Break!

An IR emitter/receiver pair is mounted on a chair in order to track how long the user stays sitting. If the user stays seated for too long, the To-Do Cue Queue provides a useful reminder to get up and take a break.

How I built it

This project uses an ESP32 microcontroller, and was programmed in the Arduino IDE. I assembled the circuits almost entirely on two solderless breadboards. The project features two displays, one OLED display and one seven-segment display. An LED and piezo transducer are used to create responsive blinks and buzzes when the user is interacting with the button UI. Alligator cables are used to connect the IR pair with the rest of the circuit.

What I learned

In this project, I learned how to implement OLED and seven segment displays, and how to use a piezo transducer. I also learned how to use an ESP microcontroller. This project also gave me experience designing my own circuits on a breadboard. IDEAHacks is my first hackathon, and it made me excited to attend more!

What's next for To-Do Cue Queue

Dynamic To-Do List

While the To-Do Cue Queue does draw its list of tasks from the internet, the ability to add and remove items from the list would make this device more practical and user friendly. The To-Do Cue Queue could connect to already existing productivity apps such as Google Calendar or one of my own creation.

PCB and Case

A custom designed circuit board and a 3D printed case and structure would greatly reduce the size and greatly improve the appearance and durability of the To-Do Cue Queue.

More Detailed Break Reminders

Breaks are essential to productivity, but not all are created equal. The To-Do Cue Queue could provide specific feedback on how long to spend on breaks or how to spend them. For instance, the To-Do Cue Queue could suggest types of physical activity to help the user focus when it is time to work again.

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