A therapeutic sleep device compatible with wearable technology and sensory stimulation
Project Overview
Lumineo aims to transform the sleep experiences of individuals suffering from PTSD-induced nightmares, which often lead to significant psychological and physiological distress. By leveraging advanced sensory, auditory, visual technologies and light cues guided deep breathing exercises into a holistic sleep aid system.Lumineo offers a multifaceted approach to promote restful sleep and alleviate the severity of nightmares.
Background/Process & Research
Sleep and dreams have a deeply intertwined relationship. Rapid eye movement sleep(Rem) is a stage of sleep. During these rem episodes, brain structures in the default network exert influence and vividly recalled dreams occur most often. Nightmares tend to happen during the period of sleep when REM intervals lengthen. We tend to dream on the sleep-wake cusp, images imagined while dreaming, including the vivid, often terrifying images produced during nightmares, are remembered.
“A disease when a man in his sleep supposes he has a great weight laying upon him.”—An Universal Etymological English Dictionary, first published by Nathan Bailey in 1721 and reprinted through 1802
This definition came from the popular reference text, Although that definition doesn’t surface often today, nightmares are still considered to be frightening dreams that result in feelings of terror, fear, distress, or anxiety.
Nightmares can arise for a number of reasons, but perhaps the most studied cause is Post-traumatic stress disorder. They are not only more common, they are more frequent, sometimes occurring several times a week.
During sleep, the brain continues to process information and emotions from the day. For individuals with PTSD, this processing can manifest in the form of nightmares. The brain tries to make sense of the traumatic memories, replaying them in dreams as a way to process and integrate the experience. Nightmares are considered the hallmark of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Although the characteristics of these distressing dreams may vary with the type of traumatic event. Addressing sleep disruption can alleviate the severity of these nocturnal events and augment the effectiveness of other PTSD treatments.
At the heart of Lumineo’s functionality is its ability to encourage deep breathing through the 4-7-8 breathing method, a proven technique to help manage stress and anxiety. This is promoted visually via light cues on the device, guiding users through the breathing process. Furthermore, Lumineo is equipped with three distinct auditory rings on its surface, each offering different comforting sounds that users can mix with base sounds. This customization allows for a personalized auditory environment that enhances relaxation and sleep quality.
“Nightmares can arise for a number of reasons—stress, anxiety, irregular sleep, medications, mental health disorders—but perhaps the most studied cause is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).”
——Harvard Medical School
Additionally, Lumineo employs sound hypnosis and sensory stimulation to alleviate nightmares and promote a smoother transition to sleep. This multi-sensory approach targets the auditory, visual, and sensory pathways, creating an immersive environment conducive to calm and restorative sleep. By addressing the complex needs of PTSD sufferers through innovative technology and therapeutic techniques, Lumineo stands out as a powerful tool for improving mental health and well-being.
Process & Research
There are three critical parts to Lumineo’s physical shape and functionality that were accounted for in the prototype stages of its design: 1)The top part of Lumineo’s main body uses ripple form to dedicate the calming atmosphere and Vinyl to switch and mix the auditory. 2) The Top Button is an organic form, which is inspired by the Chinese Holding Walnuts hobby. Three edges touch to three ripples to activate the auditory. And 3) the middle part is the deep breath exercise guide lamp. With 3D modeling and Arduino coding processes, I was able to construct the final project in the VFL and PoD studio.
Success
Successfully developing a nearly fully functional prototype of Lumineo and garnering positive feedback from user testing underscores its potential impact and effectiveness. This milestone not only validates the design and concept but also reflects the device's ability to meet the specific needs of its target audience—individuals suffering from PTSD-related nightmares. The enthusiastic response from users, expressing a desire to have Lumineo at home, is a testament to its perceived value and the comfort it provides, paving the way for further development and eventual widespread adoption.
Challenges
One of the most formidable challenges in the development of Lumineo has been the research component, particularly the direct engagement with users who have experienced PTSD. To address this sensitively and effectively, I pursued and obtained a certification in Trauma-informed Coaching & Counseling. This certification has significantly enhanced my confidence and competency in conducting interviews with PTSD sufferers. More importantly, it has equipped me with the necessary skills to ensure that these interactions are conducted in a manner that minimizes the risk of retraumatization. This preparation underscores the project’s commitment to ethical and empathetic user engagement, which is foundational to creating truly supportive and effective therapeutic solutions.