قبلة Qiblah: Anti-Interface Technology

Qiblah is a speculative prototype object that explores anti-interface technology. The qiblah is the direction facing the Ka'aba, the direction Muslims face while praying. Today many smart phone apps are responsible for guiding Muslims towards the correct qiblah. However, Qiblah was designed as an analog alternative, enabling holy spaces to be untouched by the distractions of technology.

Early prototype on prayer rug. The device sits at the foot of the rug, oriented by the compass toward the Ka'aba.

قبلة Qiblah

Demo

Qiblah is a speculative prototype object that explores anti-interface technology. The qiblah is the direction facing the Ka’aba, the direction Muslims face while praying. Today many smart phone apps are responsible for guiding Muslims towards the correct qiblah. However, Qiblah was designed as an analog alternative, enabling holy spaces to be untouched by the distractions of technology.

Me demonstrating the device
Me demonstrating the device

Qiblah prototype. Laser-cut wood, acrylic, LED strips, compass, Raspberry Pi, Arduino.
Qiblah prototype. Laser-cut wood, acrylic, LED strips, compass, Raspberry Pi, Arduino.

Compass software running on Raspberry Pi. City: San Francisco. Bearing: 18.77° East of North.
Compass software running on Raspberry Pi. City: San Francisco. Bearing: 18.77° East of North.

Components: laser-cut wood enclosure, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, NeoPixel LED strips, magnetometer, jumper wires, breadboard.
Components: laser-cut wood enclosure, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, NeoPixel LED strips, magnetometer, jumper wires, breadboard.

Design sketches. Wood frame, LED indicators left and right, diamond compass at center, sensor wiring and speaker layout.
Design sketches. Wood frame, LED indicators left and right, diamond compass at center, sensor wiring and speaker layout.

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