What it does
HAHO combines respiratory training with gamified interaction to help children with muscular atrophy build consistent, motivated habits. It offers real-time feedback, records daily data, and turns rehab into a fun, meaningful journey.
Your inspiration
HAHO was inspired by the real story of a close friend who struggled with the repetitive and difficult nature of respiratory rehab, often lacking the motivation to continue. This helped us realize how traditional medical devices fall short in emotional connection and engagement. We set out to redefine the experience by blending gamified design with technology, turning rehab into an adventure children are eager to take on. HAHO is more than a device—it’s a long-term companion that fosters confidence, autonomy, and lasting motivation.
How it works
HAHO features a mask-style design specifically tailored for patients with muscular atrophy who experience respiratory weakness and limited hand muscle control, enhancing fit stability and training effectiveness. The detachable inner mask can be replaced to accommodate different facial shapes and hygiene needs, ensuring comfort and safety. Equipped with modular game accessories supporting three major respiratory training goals, the device’s digital game levels within the app interact with the mask’s mechanism, converting breathing data into game character energy. Training challenges are customized to each child’s abilities and interests. HAHO addresses the lack of motivation caused by the monotony and difficulty of traditional respiratory training by using gamified interaction to boost children’s engagement and autonomy, promoting sustained rehabilitation and overall well-being.
Design process
This respiratory training device was inspired by a close friend with congenital muscular atrophy whose rehab efforts were hindered by a lack of motivation. This led us to design a product that supports consistent, engaging training. We interviewed over 30 patients and families, combined findings with market research, and finalized the product’s direction by the end of 2023. Working with our advising professor, we iterated on multiple prototypes, using anthropometric data to build 1:1 models for user testing. Experts in respiratory therapy and rehabilitation guided us to ensure clinical value. To address visibility issues with mask-style designs, we added an LED ring to alert caregivers of abnormal breathing. The inner mask is detachable and replaceable for comfort and hygiene. The product transforms three core respiratory goals into modular game accessories. Paired with an interactive app, it converts breathing data into game actions, making rehab more motivating and child-friendly.
How it is different
HAHO addresses two key needs of children with muscular atrophy in respiratory rehab: physical limitations and low motivation. Traditional devices are often dull, hard to use, and lack engagement. HAHO overcomes these issues through gamified design, combining a mask-style trainer with modular game parts that turn breathing data into game energy, boosting motivation and achievement. The mask includes detachable parts for comfort, hygiene, and easier use despite weak muscles or limited hand control. Game levels adjust to each child’s ability, creating personalized challenges. HAHO is more than a device—it’s a supportive companion in physical and emotional growth.
Future plans
1. Conduct user experience testing and improve some design details (to better meet the usage process and needs) 2. Find smaller sensors - make new prototypes and test them (to adapt to mold development and reduce production costs) 3. Provide training experiences that better meet the needs of users of different levels and age groups 4. Discuss the feasibility of mass production with experts, medical teams, and technology equipment manufacturers and formulate a complete plan in a systematic manner
Awards
Young Pin Design Award_ Product Design Category Finalist Young Pin Design Award_ Manufacturer Sponsorship Special Award
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