Consumer Health
AcceleDent Optima
Sinking Our Teeth Into A Uniquely Challenging Orthodontic Project
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The THYNK headset is an innovative, drug-free solution for managing ADHD in children. Combining cutting-edge neuroscience with engaging gameplay, the THYNK system features a comfortable and durable headset paired with an interactive adventure game on a tablet. The headset, designed specifically for children, uses forehead and mastoid sensors to monitor brain activity related to attention, inhibition, and self-regulatory control.
As children progress through the game, the software continuously measures their focus and automatically adjusts the gameplay to maintain engagement. The personalized curriculum targets 13 key cognitive skills, tailored for each child and delivered virtually to a patient-centered Collaborative Care Team.
Eclipse was contracted to evaluate human factors for child head sizing and ease of use, design, engineer, prototype, test, and launch a 1,000-unit manufacturing build. After initial prototype testing, we also refined the existing hardware, electronics, and firmware for the headset to better communicate EEG signals for home use in the world of an ADHD child.
Designing the THYNK headset posed unique challenges due to the variation in head sizes among children aged 8 to 12—the primary age range the device targets. From the outset, we knew the headset would require significant adjustability to ensure a snug and comfortable fit, as well as flexibility to maintain proper contact on the sensor pads. Additionally, the design needed to appeal to children and avoid looking like a medical device to encourage consistent use.
To address these challenges, we used human factors studies for use and ergonomic fitting. We observed and interviewed hundreds of children and measured male and female head sizes. Using those measurements, we referenced ANSI HE75 to ensure our sizing accommodated users from 5th percentile female to 95th percentile male. Using these measurements, we created 3D head scans to develop and test multiple prototypes, focusing on fit and alignment. This iterative process led to a design that balanced comfort, stability, and functionality. To maximize adjustability, we incorporated flexible, thin-walled moldings combined with pivoting features and sliding mechanisms. The result is a headset that comfortably adapts to various head shapes while maintaining accurate sensor positioning.
By prioritizing comfort, durability, and a playful design, the THYNK headset encourages children with ADHD to wear it willingly, making therapy sessions more enjoyable and effective.
Using the initial prototype electronics provided by the client, we began to design and engineer the headset focusing on building rapid prototypes to verify fit and alignment with real users. Through multiple user studies and refinements, we replaced components on the initial PCB to decrease the size of the headset . This was essential to keep the device lightweight and visually appealing, ensuring it remained comfortable for children. The industrial design was inspired by headpieces worn by characters in computer games, blending seamlessly with the gameplay experience. To enhance immersion, the game’s characters were also designed to wear a similar headpiece.
During the prototyping phase, we utilized in-house 3D printing to rapidly produce and test initial designs with a range of potential users. This allowed us to refine critical aspects of the headset, including adjustable slides, retaining features, and contact pads. Through iterative testing, we arrived at a design that balanced functionality and comfort.
For the initial clinical trial run of 100 units, we again employed 3D printing, this time using HP Multi Jet Fusion from ProtoLabs. All assembly and testing were conducted in-house, including crafting the cabling and replaceable contact pads, which we sewed on our programmable electronic pattern sewing machine. This hands-on approach ensured consistent quality and performance throughout the trial units.
The initial 100-unit trial was a success, and we used our supply chain and managed the injection molding and manufacturing transition with a selected contract manufacturer for the first 1,000 units for sale!
THYNK wins Oracle Health Innovation Award!
