VoiceLock is a lock box for keys. It is specifically targeted at AirBnb's and rental properties.
I've been frustrated in the past with the experience of finding and unlocking a lockbox when you are staying at a rental property. This was my attempt to recreate that experience in a more playful and engaging way.
This is typically the first device customers interact with at an AirBnb...
I started this project by sketching some ideas for how a better lock box could look and function. I started with a knob mounted box before switching to something on the wall. I wanted something extremely accessible.
After sketching many different kinds of forms, my inspiration became the "voice tunnel" common playground toy. This is a shape that is approachable and leads the user towards whispering into it. It also made a double affordance for the key deposit location as well.
I then created a mockup to further explore how this would actually work. The basic components were as follows:
(1) Raspberry Pi with Crickit Hat
(1) USB Microphone
(1) 12V Power source and Transistor
(1) Small switch for key detection
(1) LED for key detection display
(1) Solenoid door lock
The program was written in Python and ran on a Raspberry Pi
I created the form in Fusion 360 and 3D printed it on my Prusa MK3s. I then did a final test with the form to make sure all the components fit together properly.
