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ARC

WHAT

ARC is a concept for a headpiece that provides relief, and prevents chronic headaches stemming from the occipital nerve. At upto only 8 oz., ARC would be available in 5 sizes to ensure an anatomically correct, and comfortable fit. Thanks to this uncommonly design-led solution, ARC is intended to be also worn in public or while active.

The form of ARC was developed by referencing the two greater occipital nerve trigger points through CAD (or, Computer-aided Design models) and multiple physical prototypes, testing weight and ergonomics. ARC works by using Single Pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; a non-invasive technology which stimulates nervous tissue through the use of a low-charge electromagnetic pulse. The single pulse rapidly depolarises neurons in the target location, and repetitive pulses can modify the excitability of nervous tissue. When using ARC, a pulse sequence consisting of two pulses is initiated at 15-minute intervals until pain has cleared. After each pulse sequence, the device locks as it delivers temperature therapy to calm and further relieve pain.

HOW

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ARC was designed to improve the quality of life of those suffering from chronic headaches stemming from the occipital nerve. The worsening opioid crisis and our own team member's reliance on pain medication inspired us to ideate a non-pharmaceutical intervention in hopes of reducing our Western society's dependence on drugs as treatment. 

Current non-pharmaceutical solutions to pain are not intended to be used in public; requiring either certain positions such as laying down or having one's eyes closed, or by being bulky and unattractive. We wanted ours to be as human-centred as possible, so we created a design-led solution that may be efficiently used in public or while active with no attached stigma. 

Pain relief tends to be exclusive as it often comes with a hefty price tag. We wanted to remove this division by implementing a "Buy One, Give One" model, whereby the revenue generated from sales enables us to provide free ARCs to those who otherwise would have limited have access to pain relief. Further, since this solution is reusable, with just one purchase, the user can receive ongoing aid and ultimately reduce their expense.

WHY

ARC 3.png

The form of ARC was developed by referencing the two greater occipital nerve trigger points through CAD (or, Computer-aided Design models) and multiple physical prototypes, testing weight and ergonomics. ARC works by using Single Pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation; a non-invasive technology which stimulates nervous tissue through the use of a low-charge electromagnetic pulse. The single pulse rapidly depolarises neurons in the target location, and repetitive pulses can modify the excitability of nervous tissue. When using ARC, a pulse sequence consisting of two pulses is initiated at 15-minute intervals until pain has cleared. After each pulse sequence, the device locks as it delivers temperature therapy to calm and further relieve pain.

HOW

DETAILS

Collaborators:

Abby Meyer, Margo Sultenfuss and Erez Putterman

Dimensions:

5 sizes available. Avg. 6.5" x 5" x 4.5"

Intended materials:

Recycled copper, Moleskin cotton fabric, Recycled reinforced glass strips, Lithium-ion battery.

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