An embodied device instructs instinctively stretching
PUMPING is a physical stretching aid that caters to the needs of modern-day individuals who struggle with morning grogginess and body stiffness. In collaboration with physical therapists from "Taipei Veterans General Hospital Department of Rehabilitation and Technical Aid Center," this product help relieve the muscle of legs, hip and back through knee hug and belly twist. With its versatile, organic shape and elastic contraction structure, PUMPING helps users effortlessly perform low-impact stretching exercises and maintain physical and mental well-being at home. PUMPING is here to be your stretching buddy and support you for a healthier lifestyle.
Trailer of PUMPING
Concept Demonstration
Research and Development Process
Background
Recent studies indicate that Sleep Inertia, a physiological state of impaired cognitive and sensory-motor performance lasting approximately 1-4 hours after awakening, is a primary factor contributing to a negative waking experience. The duration of sleep inertia depends on whether individuals encounter soothing wake-up patterns, which significantly affects both their physical and mental health in a day.
Recognizing the importance of self-care, particularly through daily stretching, has become essential for modern people's health in light of these findings. Therefore, we explore the possibility of using design to guide low-threshold daily stretching to promote people's health.
Ergonomic testing and structure design
The initial progress began with an examination of daily frustrations related to body stiffness, followed by testing ergonomic postures and designing the elastic structure. Subsequently, 3D simulations were conducted.
Working prototype Development
Measurement and basic shape development
Material: PU and laser cut foam used to create a lo-fi prototype for testing.
Thermoforming to shape the organic foam, then finalize the smooth surface with the sanding machine
Final product development
In this stage, we select comfortable and skin-friendly textile for covering PUMPING, making it suitable for bedroom, living room, and other daily scenarios. For the design of the handle, we use leather for stable support to the limb, and combine them with elastic cords of different poundage.
Final Testing and Evaluation from physical therapist in Taipei Veterans General Hospital.
From discuss, testing, to evaluation,
we adjust the elastic structure and strive for better stretching effect and user experience.
Exhibition & Award
2023 Young Designers' Exhibition (left)
2023 Taiwan Tech Department of Design Graduation Show (Right)
2023 Taiwan International Student Design Competition | finalist
Ebook
" A user brochure introducing how to use PUMPING properly to promote healthy lifestyle "
Co designer Yu Jie Liu, Yi Hua Wang
Collaboration Taipei Veterans General Hospital Department of Rehabilitation and Technical Aid Center
Patent Invention patent currently applying
Contact me ljenny8283@gmail.com
Year 2023
