LockedIn.
Phone Jail Cell Build Project
A physical and digital productivity tool that pairs a task-focused application with an ESP32-powered phone enclosure and solenoid lock.
React / TypeScript / ESP32 / Arduino C++
Project motivation
What if putting your phone away was more than a good intention?
Distraction is an everyday problem. LockedIn explores the connection between digital productivity and physical accountability: a tool that makes the boundary between focus and distraction tangible.
Provisional motivation draft · to be reviewed by JimboA little distance. A lot more focus.
A React and TypeScript application pairs with ESP32 Arduino C++ firmware to control a phone lockbox. The countdown is mirrored on an I²C LCD, and the lock releases when the timer reaches zero.
Engineering &
implementation.
The digital layer
Four HTTP endpoints start, pause, stop, and report the lock state. The web app polls device status every two seconds to synchronize the countdown.
The physical layer
A relay circuit drives a 12V solenoid lock from 3.3V ESP32 GPIO. Arduino C++ firmware controls the countdown and LCD.
Connecting both worlds
The electronics are housed in a 3D-printed and laser-cut enclosure, bringing the focus timer into a physical device.
Challenges &
decisions.
Add the actual synchronization approach, hardware safety considerations, and a specific tradeoff from building the enclosure or lock system.
A work in progress.
Add what building across software and hardware taught you, and how you would improve the next iteration.