A set of tactile sensory rings designed with distracting and soothing textures to engage children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) during meltdowns caused by sensory overloads.
Research: The Problem
Identifying the multifaceted impact of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) on children and their parents involves exploring various dimensions such as heightened anxiety, challenges with receptive movements, and frequent meltdowns. Research reveals that children with ASD often struggle with sensory processing, social interaction, and communication, contributing to increased stress and emotional strain on parents.
The following infographic highlights the primary triggers of meltdowns in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), compiled from insights shared by therapists and parents intimately familiar with the challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum.
The User Group
Through research into their specific triggers and statistical trends, the user group was identified as children on the autism spectrum, aged 5-10 years, experiencing triggering situations or emotional discomfort during social interactions, or in crowded spaces. This prompted the idea to design product to protect children with ASD during an anxiety or panic attack.
Why ASD?
Designing with consideration for individuals on the autism spectrum is crucial, as early diagnosis not only facilitates support but also enhances opportunities for improved communication, social interaction, and cognitive development, ultimately fostering a more inclusive society. Through research, the following reasons were highlighted:
Design Process
1. Ideation
Initiating the design process with sketches enables the creation of handheld objects aimed at providing distraction and comfort during meltdowns, offering tangible solutions that cater to the unique sensory needs of children on the autism spectrum
This iterative process also led to the development of rings as wearable objects, designed to offer both distraction and a sense of calmness, providing individuals on the autism spectrum with discreet and accessible tools to manage sensory overload and anxiety.
2. Models
Following the identification of meltdown triggers and extensive brainstorming, the design process progressed to the creation of prototypes encompassing various handheld objects. These prototypes included ear covers to mitigate sensory overload from sound, a tactile sensory box offering diverse textures, soothing sensory rings, and a game-like distraction tool aimed at promoting focus and concentration, collectively addressing the multifaceted needs of individuals on the autism spectrum.
3. Prototypes
Upon receiving feedback on the initial prototypes, I streamlined the design focus to sensory rings due to their direct skin-to-skin contact, which cognitive therapists emphasized as particularly effective in stimulating children with ASD. Transitioning to CAD iterations using Rhino3D and Keyshot, I then employed 3D printing to produce prototypes in different sizes, facilitating a user-centric approach to determine the most suitable design for the intended user group.
The Final Solution
The final design comprises two sensory rings, each serving distinct functions. "Ease" embodies a fidget ring, crafted to engage the mind with its playful structure, while "Heal" offers a soothing experience through its rubbing quality and patterned elements. Careful consideration was given to the color schemes of both sets, with "Ease" adorned in bright primary colors to evoke liveliness, and "Heal" adorned in muted tones to elicit a sense of calmness, ensuring a holistic sensory experience tailored to individual needs.
Product Specification
The rings are offered in three sizes tailored for children aged 5-10 years, ensuring a comfortable fit for various hand sizes within the target demographic. Crafted from non-toxic silicone, a safe and child-friendly material, the rings prioritize safety and durability. The soft element in the "Ease" ring is made from TPU, a flexible material that enables bouncing and fidgeting, enhancing its engaging quality while maintaining safety standards for young users.
User Journey
By mapping out the user journey, I pinpointed the precise moments when the product would be most beneficial. Through envisioning potential triggering situations for the user, such as overwhelming sensory environments or moments of heightened stress, I identified specific instances when the sensory rings could provide essential support and comfort. This user-centric approach ensured that the product's design and functionality were strategically aligned with the needs and experiences of its intended users, maximizing its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
Tools
Rhino3D
Keyshot
SketchbookPro
3D Printing
InDesign
Rhino3D
Keyshot
SketchbookPro
3D Printing
InDesign