Ritmo

What it does

Ritmo is a device designed to train fine motor coordination of the hands through rhythmic and sound stimuli, helping to regain strength and dexterity in the hands.

Your inspiration

Ritmo was born from the observation of the motor difficulties faced by elderly individuals and people undergoing rehabilitation, who are often excluded from motivating and accessible products. The idea developed by combining my passion for inclusive design with music therapy, which is known for its positive effects on coordination. This led to the creation of a multisensory, home-based, and non-medicalized device that stimulates movement through rhythm, sound, and physical interaction.

How it works

Ritmo is a home device that stimulates fine motor coordination through rhythmic exercises guided by sounds and vibrations. It consists of an interactive base on which the user can move or touch objects by following light and sound sequences. Motion and pressure sensors detect gestures, adjusting the rhythm and difficulty level in real time. The auditory and tactile feedback helps maintain focus and strengthens the connection between perception and movement. Portable, rechargeable, and intuitive, it is designed to be used even by individuals with reduced motor abilities, turning training into a playful and motivating activity.

Design process

Ritmo was born from the idea of restoring a sense of autonomy to the user, enabling them to regain coordination through play, music, and rhythm. Visually, the concept is represented as a line that, over time, becomes wavy but Ritmo helps straighten it out again. The shape of the device was designed to adapt to any surface, like a blanket that can be placed over the legs.

How it is different

Ritmo is unique because it combines auditory, tactile, and visual stimulation in a non-medicalized, accessible design tailored for the home environment. Unlike many rehabilitation devices, which are often complex or tied to clinical settings, Ritmo promotes autonomy and emotional engagement through playful, multisensory interaction. It also adapts to the user’s progress, encouraging gradual improvement in fine motor coordination without causing frustration. It is an inclusive product that focuses on the person not their limitations.

Future plans

I envision this project as an example of how rehabilitation and prevention can become part of everyday domestic life, breaking down the barriers of therapy costs and making them accessible to everyone. Ritmo has the potential to help prevent the effects of aging in the global population by turning training into a constant part of daily life playful, spontaneous, and completely non-invasive. Its universal nature is made possible through the language of music.

Awards