Hibu: A Wearable Alert Button for the Elderly

Revolutionizing Safety and Accessibility

Hibu, designed by Francois Hurtaud, is a wearable alert button that addresses the unique needs of the elderly. Paired with a mobile phone via Bluetooth and connected to an app, Hibu provides a communication link to dedicated services when triggered. By reducing the button's size and increasing its reliability and longevity, Hibu can be worn in more relevant locations, making it easily accessible for the elderly.

One of the key advantages of Hibu is its minimal size and simple shape, which is visually acceptable to both domestic and professional users. This allows for easy expansion and growth into various markets by simply modifying the dynamics of the app. The device's functionality is not limited to alerting services, but can also be adapted for other purposes, such as monitoring health conditions or providing location tracking.

The realization of Hibu involved collaboration between industrial designers, electronic engineers, mechanical engineers, and production engineers. The device's components are encapsulated within an ultrasonically sealed waterproof housing, meeting the IP67 standard. The overmolded silicon button is mechanically bonded to maintain waterproof functionality. Custom size and shape wireless charging coils and batteries were specially made to maximize internal space, while the PCB was reduced to a single layer.

Hibu's technical specifications include a diameter of 47.3mm and a thickness of 12mm for the device itself, and 47.3mm in diameter and 13mm in thickness for the charging base. It operates within a temperature range of 0°C to 50°C and a relative humidity range of 10% to 90% non-condensing. The device has a fall detection feature using an accelerometer, and provides alarm feedback through vibration. It has a Bluetooth connection range of 10m and a rechargeable Li-ion Polymer battery with a battery life of up to two weeks.

To use Hibu, users need to install the app on their Android or iPhone, input relevant data, and pair the device with the app via Bluetooth. Operating Hibu is as simple as pressing the textured button. In cases where the user suffers a fall or lapse of unconsciousness, Hibu will automatically detect the occurrence and provide an alert accordingly. There is a 10-second period within which the trigger can be cancelled by pressing the button at the center of the screen on the mobile phone.

The development of Hibu started in 2014 in Holland and was completed in March 2015 in Hong Kong. The design team, led by Francois Hurtaud, included Frederic Vautard, Frankie Chan, James Chu, and Ryan Yeung.

Hibu is a leap forward in expanding the business model of Monitorlinq, a company that works closely with hospitals and conducts research with health condition data. By providing a more relevant service to their clients, Hibu benefits end users and helps prevent life risks. The design has been recognized for its excellence and innovation, receiving the Silver A' Design Award in the Wearable Technologies category in 2016.

With its focus on safety, accessibility, and user-friendly design, Hibu is set to revolutionize the wearable alert button market for the elderly. Its unique features and attention to detail make it a standout product in the industry, providing peace of mind for both users and their loved ones.