S E A N L I N
Designer : Tzuhsiang(Sean) Lin
Advisor: Prof. Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman
A Vibroacoustic Vest
for Firefighters' Stress Reduction
Resilience Strategy -
Winner -Pratt Institute
4th Annual Social Justice and Sustainability Awards
How can we help our heroes — first responders — maintain their physical and mental well-being after responding to emergencies?
Vibroacoustic therapy vest enhances first responders/firefighters’ recovery through low-frequency vibration. After responding to emergencies and rescue missions, firefighters face a higher risk of mental health disorders due to stress, exposure to trauma and injuries, and long working hours. Research claims that low-frequency vibration therapy reduces stress and calms by improving blood flow. The experts involved in this project include Lisa Orloff from World Cares Center, Douglas Copp, Flushing Fire House, and firefighters from Taiwan.
Through primary and secondary research, three key design points were identified as essential for firefighters.
- My research will align with these three key design principles to find a solution for them.
-
the professional and heroic image of firefighters
-
unique job responsibilities and routines
-
ergonomic compatibility.
Timeline - 10 months
Timeline - 10 months
1. Problem and Research
Why is exploring this
problem so important?
How are the government and
management addressing this issue?
How effective are the current methods?
- Evaluated through interviews and research to assess real-world impact.
When existing solutions seem less efficient,
this project continues to explore alternative approaches
through interviews and research.
How do first responders deal with stress?
2. Concepts and Ideation
3. Design Direction Adjustments and Insights
Vibration User testing
Process
