ESDA
Early Seizure Detection and Assistance
Skills I used
Sewing
Product Design
Human Centered Design
CAD
User Research
Supporting the autonomy and safety of adolescents with epilepsy by enabling them to shower unsupervised.
ESDA - early seizure detection and assistance - is a smart bathroom device ecosystem that detects early signs of tonic-clonic seizure, activates safety devices, and alerts caregivers. It minimises the need for constant supervision, fostering a safer, more dignified showering experience. It was designed by a team of 4.
Hand-poses-based detection
. Leverages ML and variable-resistance sensors to recognise start-of-seizure hand poses
. Though less prone to false positives than current alternatives, incorporates an easily actionable false alarm system
. Simple slip-on glove, with tips of fingers free for scrubbing and electronics hidden, and removable, between inner and outer layer
Design Principles
- Frictionless: fits into existing routines & rituals.
- Designed for severe and frequent tonic-clonic seizures: applicable to milder scenarios too
- Non-Stigmatising
- Financially Accessible
- Adaptable
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Design Approach:
We followed an iterative process informed by insights from interviews carried out with sixteen individuals who have, or care for someone with epilepsy. We had 4 ongoing collaborators. A wide range of experts, from the fields of neurology to physiotherapy, also accompanied us along the way with their technical insights.
We aimed to design a product that does not disrupt shower flow, is adaptable, and non-stigmatising.