FlowBox is an interactive anti-stress fidget toy designed to simulate a physical container filled with granular particles (e.g., sand) or fluid (e.g., water, lava). The simulation reacts in real-time to the user's movements, such as tilting or shaking, thanks to an integrated 6-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU). A single-button interface allows users to cycle through different materials via a short press or change the map configuration with a long press.

The inspiration for FlowBox stems from a desire to combat smartphone addiction. During moments of stress (such as when hitting a roadblock while working on projects or assignments), the common reflex is to reach for the phone, a habit that often leads to unproductive “infinite scrolling” and increased negative emotions, usually ending up less rested than before. FlowBox is designed to intercept this behavioral loop. By providing a tactile, aesthetically pleasing, and satisfyingly predictable digital-physical experience, it offers a “short break that stays short”, allowing the user to reset without falling into the engagement traps of present-day attention economy.

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