Wearable

MedTech.

Overview

What I Did

Imagine if you could wear a pendant (or use a keychain) that was both beautiful and that could also help you get in touch with your emotions and feelings. An object that you could hold to 'feel' the person you love by using the senses (touch, color and smell).

The work presented here is done by me. I was the co-founder of the company creating this product. It has hardware, software and app design.

What I Did

Ideation - Sketches
Low fidelity prototypes
High fidelity visuals
3D modeling and animations
Marketing campaigns

Process

1. Problem Definition

The problem I was solving was to develop a tool for women (and men) that suffer from anxiety, panic attacks and depression. As a requirement I wanted a tool that was easy to reach, carry and use. It had to be both useful and beautiful.

2. Prototyping

After going over a series of sketches and shapes I came up with the idea of a pendant that represents a heart split in two. The shape was split in two so couples could use it to interact.

I started with pen and paper sketches and made initial prototypes using foam and clay to get to a shape that was both ergonomic and functional. The shape also required manufacturing specifications and enough space to fit the hardware components needed.

An added value to the design was its versatility. It could be used as a half heart, as a complete heart, as a pendant or as a keychain.

Initial Shape Explorations | Tools: Pen & Paper, Illustrator

3. 3D Prototyping, Material Testing & Animation

After the initial design was done, I moved to the prototype manufacturing process. The goal at this stage was to select the correct material to use so it was cost effective, compatible with components and that provided the look and feel I was looking for. The materials considered were metal, plastic, wood and glass.

Through this process I worked with a company that manufactures toys to create prototypes with possible materials and shapes.
I also consulted with a wearable expert for feedback and research on components and sensors.

4. Use Cases, Presenting Ideas, Marketing

Created illustrations to showcase the product context, the focus user and versatility of use. This product was launched as a Kickstarter campaign to fund the manufacturing, marketing and distribution costs.