Embedded Files
Supporting Self-Regulated Digital Use
Supporting Self-Regulated Digital Use
SnowCurtain is a project designed to help people manage their digital use by themselves.
Rather than simply blocking access or forcing users to stop, it uses visual and tactile cues, together with contextual information, to help users notice how they are using digital devices, reflect on their situation, and make their own choices.
Our initial focus is on teenagers and educational settings.
The Problem
The Problem
At the same time, it is easy to keep using them longer than intended — even when there are other things we want or need to do.
Many existing solutions rely mainly on time limits, warnings or blocking functions.
SnowCurtain explores a different approach:
not only restricting digital use, but helping users develop the ability to regulate it themselves.
Our Approach
Our Approach
SEE
SEE
Visual effects can gradually change on the screen as digital use continues.
For example, snow, clouds or other visual elements may become more noticeable over time, creating a natural moment of awareness without immediately blocking the content.
FEEL
FEEL
Tactile or haptic cues can also be used to draw the user's attention to continued digital use.
These cues may be provided through a device, case or other peripheral equipment.
ADAPT
ADAPT
The system can consider information such as:
the user's current situation, including digital use and possible fatigue or drowsiness
upcoming plans or personal goals
settings chosen by the user
It can then estimate the risks of continuing use and adjust the type, intensity and timing of support.
The final choice — whether to continue, stop, or do something else — remains with the user.
The aim is not to make decisions on behalf of the user.
It is to create a moment in which the user can notice, think and choose.
From Control to Self-Regulation
From Control to Self-Regulation
SnowCurtain does not aim to create a world without digital technology.
Digital tools can entertain us, connect us with others and expand what we can learn and experience.
Our goal is to help people develop the ability to use those tools on their own terms.
Not “being stopped,” but noticing and choosing for yourself.
Intellectual Property
Intellectual Property
We are building an intellectual property portfolio around technologies for supporting self-regulated digital use, including visual and tactile approaches.
Multiple patent applications have been filed in Japan, and we are continuing to develop and protect these technologies. International protection is also being pursued, with future overseas development under consideration.
Detailed information about our patent and intellectual property activities is currently available in Japanese.
Current Stage
Current Stage
SnowCurtain is currently in the development stage.
We are refining use cases, screen interactions and the overall user experience while continuing to strengthen the intellectual property foundation.
The next steps are to develop prototypes and conduct small-scale testing in real-world settings, including educational environments.
Images and interface examples shown on this website are development concepts and do not represent a currently released product.
Collaboration
Collaboration
We welcome discussions with organizations and individuals interested in developing, testing or bringing SnowCurtain into practical use.
Schools & Educational Institutions
Schools & Educational Institutions
Discussion of future pilot testing and use in educational settings.
Companies & Technology Partners
Companies & Technology Partners
Prototype development, software, UI/UX, haptics, devices and related technologies.
Business & Investment Support
Business & Investment Support
Business development, funding strategies, market validation and future expansion.
Media, Researchers & Individuals
Media, Researchers & Individuals
Interviews, research discussions, feedback and general inquiries.
About
About
SnowCurtain is an independent project based in Tokyo, Japan.
It brings together perspectives from education, technology and intellectual property, with the aim of developing new ways to support people's autonomy in the digital age.
About the Founder
About the Founder
Naoko Shibuya
Founder and Project Lead, SnowCurtain
Based in Tokyo, Japan. With a background in philosophy, business, and education, she has worked in both corporate and educational settings. She is currently developing and commercializing technologies for self-regulated digital use, with intellectual property at the core of the project.
Contact
Contact
For collaboration, research, media inquiries or other questions, please feel free to contact us.
Before submitting an inquiry, please review our Privacy Policy.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse