Sana

Para qué sirve

It tackles acute anxiety and self-harm urges in students (young-adults) and individuals by providing immediate, discreet sensory intervention. The smart ring uses targeted haptics & acupressure to disrupt distress, offering a safe way to regain control.

Qué te inspiró

As someone who has navigated the intense cycle of anxiety and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury (NSSI), I understand the desperate need for an immediate, safe release. I didn't want to fall back into harmful patterns but still needed a way to interrupt overwhelming emotional pain. This personal struggle inspired the project, as a desire to create a tangible tool that offers that crucial moment of grounding and control, helping others find a path to manage intense distress without resorting to harm, a tool I wish I'd had. It’s for anyone needing a discreet anchor in their storm.

Cómo funciona

This product is a smart ring worn on the index finger. When feeling overwhelmed, a simple touch activates it. Inside, a tiny custom mechanism applies firm, rhythmic pressure to the LI2 acupressure point, a spot traditionally associated with calming agitation. Simultaneously, a high-definition haptic motor generates distinct, attention-grabbing vibrations, like precise "taps" or "waves." This combined physical sensation (pressure + vibration) is designed to be a powerful "pattern interrupt." It pulls your focus away from distressing thoughts and grounds you in the present moment. The ring has a microcontroller that controls these actions and a small rechargeable battery. It connects via Bluetooth to a companion app for initial setup and customizing the sensation's intensity or pattern, but works independently once activated, ensuring immediate help. The goal is an instant, safe, physical distraction.

Proceso de diseño

Sana began with a key proposal: How can industrial design offer a quick, discreet, effective way to manage intense anxiety without self-harm? This tackles a critical need for users, such as students facing academic and social pressures. As our Empathy Map shows, the user feels overwhelmed (“Pain”) and seeks immediate relief and control (“Gain”). Initial research explored NSSI as a coping mechanism (approximately 17% of teens, according to WHO), where endorphin release offers brief calm. Simulating this proved complex. Majority of the products in the market (Oura rings, fidget toys, smart bracelet, Stim-Pain devices) showed none offered discreet, active sensory intervention. Focusing on haptics, I chose an acupressure point (not for tradition but for sensitivity) for a “pattern interrupt" taking into account that strong tactile input in nerve-rich areas may modulate attention and shift emotional states. I created detailed 3D CAD models integrating all components (FPC, curved battery, piezoelectric, LRAs) in a 10mm-high x 5mm width form. Next steps: 3D print ergonomic models, finalize electronics, and build a functional prototype. Sana supports accessible, stigma-free self-care. Prototype cost: ~$70–100.

Qué lo hace diferente

The product lies in its active, immediate, physical intervention in a discreet ring form. Unlike passive wellness trackers that only monitor biometrics, this one does something tangible the moment it's activated. While mental health apps require cognitive engagement (often difficult during intense distress), Sana uses a direct dual sensory input, targeted acupressure combined with distinct haptics to create a physical interruption that doesn't rely on visual or auditory focus. Other devices might offer general vibration, but this product offers a specific combination of rhythmic pressure on an acupressure point and programmable haptics, for a more potent grounding effect. Its focus on immediate, acute crisis management, emphasizing discretion and non-stigmatizing design, also sets it apart from broader therapeutic devices or more conspicuous wearables. This product's about a noticeable sensation designed to reclaim focus.

Planes para el futuro

Next steps involve refining the current prototype for enhanced miniaturization, battery efficiency, and reliability. I plan to conduct small-scale user testing with target demographic students to gather qualitative feedback on its effectiveness in real-world scenarios and further iterate the design. In addition, I will work on the app development with a focus on intuitive UI/UX and minimalist support features. In long-term, I aim to conduct formal efficacy studies with mental health professionals. The ultimate goal is to make the ring an accessible, clinically-informed, and trusted tool for young people worldwide.

Premios