WHISPER
Fall 2015
Whisper began as student wearable technology project, and quickly transformed into a preventative healthcare device. Designed to be mostly passive and accompanied by a smartphone app, Whisper prevents people at risk for endocarditis from sustaining permanent heart and heart valve damage.
Endocarditis
Endocarditis is a heart condition that can affect anyone with heart disease, but those who have had open heart surgery are especially at risk.
The Problem
Americans don't take preventative healthcare seriously
Expensive out-of-pocket costs prohibit most Americans from visiting the doctor in non-life-threatening situations, leading to increased rate and severity of sickness.
Endocarditis is a serious issue
Endocarditis can only be definitely diagnosed through expensive echocardiograms and blood scans. This is compacted by the American healthcare crisis.
The Solution
Warn at-risk individuals when it is imperative that they see a doctor
When multiple symptoms of infective endocarditis are present coincidentally in an individual who is at risk, it is important for them to have their condition analyzed professionally.
DESIGN
Pulse, heart rate variation, and electronic stethoscopy are administered using the necklace. This data is analyzed by the app and sent to a professional if further attention is required. The data is visualized for the user for emotional satisfaction.
WHISPER