Conch-shaped device uses breath to calm kids with sleep apnea
Jiumo Wang, affiliated with ShanghaiTech University and the Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University, has developed Oneiro, an interactive device shaped like a conch. This innovative tool converts children's breaths into soothing digital imagery, aimed at alleviating anxiety prior to medical treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Showcased at Milan Design Week 2026 within Archivi Futuri at ZONAK in Isola, co-curated by Isola and Pietro Petrillo, the initiative envisions a hospital featuring AI companions by 2050. Children aged four to thirteen exhale into a disposable mouthpiece, creating tranquil visuals in real-time. This hygienic, contact-free system prioritizes safety, autonomy, and emotional resilience, with plans for AI customization and a digital emotional passport to monitor emotional experiences during visits.
Key facts
- Oneiro is a conch-shaped interactive device for children aged 4–13 with OSA.
- Designed by Jiumo Wang with ShanghaiTech University and Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University.
- Presented at Milan Design Week 2026, part of Archivi Futuri at ZONAK in Isola.
- Exhibition co-curated by Isola and Pietro Petrillo.
- Children blow into a disposable mouthpiece to create calming digital visuals in real time.
- The system is contact-free and hygienic for hospital integration.
- Oneiro is an early prototype for an AI companion hospital of 2050.
- Future development includes AI personalization and a digital emotional passport.
Entities
Artists
- Jiumo Wang
Institutions
- ShanghaiTech University
- Eye and ENT Hospital of Fudan University
- Isola
- ZONAK
- designboom
Locations
- Milan
- Italy