Somno-Art is an innovative outpatient solution for classification of the stages of sleep based on the heartbeats and movements of its wearer during the night. This first generation, intended exclusively for clinical research, is the result of a collaboration between CIC-IT and PPRS. The objective was to recreate a strong heartbeat signal, equivalent to the results originating from an electrocardiogram, using simple and durable materials. We thus manufactured a pulse sensor bracelet that is more comfortable than the devices currently available on the market
The project began with a workshop held together with the project team from CIC-IT. We co-organised and facilitated the workshop with R&D2 Innovate research company to understand the product, its operation and its use. In fact, medical devices are not designed just like any other products. Sharing this information with the entire team that would lead the project provided the vision and overall strategy, especially for the creative stage, that would follow. During these 2 days we also developed several technological concepts for the implementation and types of sensors to be used. We built several prototypes, subsequently tested in CIC-IT laboratories, in order to validate the electronic device.
Different stages of prototyping were followed by a creative stage in the form of a sketch to give a first aesthetic vision of the product. Design and technology of the product were being developed in parallel throughout the project.
Our partner research company, R&D2 Innovate, focused on a prototype of architecture in which we could integrate the electronics in order to perform new tests. After completing this work, our design completed the project. In terms of aesthetics, we selected two main tracks: one with rounded lines, more plastic, and a second more geometric one. It was the second concept that was developed by the client, due to its more technical appearance and its ability to integrate a screen at later stages.
During this project a series of prototypes were made. They allowed us to explore concepts, validate ergonomics, check the position of sensors, and acknowledge compactness and aesthetics of the product. All this has helped to eliminate any doubts, such as the insulation of the sensors, or the functionality of the buttons. The latest functional prototype featuring the final design was validated by the client.
This last stage of industrialisation was controlled by R&D2 Innovate. We looked at the different production samples until final validation of the design.
To learn more about the product, visit the Somno-Art’s website
