Smart alarm clock lets you lie in

The Rise alarm clock has in-built internet access and can be connected to the web via a normal telephone line.

The clock retrieves relevant traffic information from across the web based on data the users have given it, such as where they live, where they need to travel to and what time they need to arrive.

The alarm clock will then work out what time you need to be woken.

More punctual

"As well as the basic function of waking people up at the right time depending on what traffic conditions are like, the Rise clock could also be further developed," said inventor David Hunt.

"It could provide people with faster alternative routes, inform colleagues of an expected delay and provide rail, air and bus related alerts."

In tests he was impressed with the clock's accuracy.

"I was so punctual it was scary," he said.

Business interest

Brunel University researchers see the clock as a step towards making technology a bit more useful to users.

"Technology has an enormous potential to enhance people's lives but it many cases it simply adds a further level of complexity," said head of Brunel's design department Dr David Wright.

Since finishing the prototype in May, Mr Hunt has had some commercial interest in his clock.

He is hoping to strike a deal with a motoring organisation like the AA, which has an extensive traffic database.