Anibo: A Tactile Training Bath Toy for Autistic Children

Introducing Anibo: A Unique Approach to Tactile Rehabilitation

Autism is often accompanied by tactile disorders, and the limited number of aids available on the market require constant parental assistance. However, many parents do not have the time to participate in training sessions consistently. Recognizing this challenge, Ziru Wang and his team developed Anibo to introduce therapy into the daily lives of autistic children.

Anibo consists of a collection of three individual products, each controlling a different level of water yield and speed. This allows for advanced training and provides valuable feedback information. The smallest product is designed specifically for children, while the others are meant for parents to facilitate interaction during the training sessions.

When designing a product for children, safety is of utmost importance. Anibo addresses this concern by using food-grade silicone and incorporating a charging cradle. The combination of these materials ensures the toy is safe for children to use during their bath time.

The realization of Anibo involves the use of food-grade silicone for the exterior, which is encased in an acrylic shell. Inside, a motor, water storage, lithium battery, circuit board, and several pipes work together to create the desired tactile experience.

Technical specifications for Anibo include a diameter of 100mm for the first product, 80mm for the second, and 60mm for the third. The wireless charging box measures 300mm x 150mm x 120mm, providing a convenient and efficient way to recharge the toy.

Operating Anibo is simple. By pressing the water suction button on the top of the toy and submerging it in water, the cistern fills up and the toy floats. The outlet button, located next to the intake button, controls two levels of water yield. Pressing it once activates level 1, while pressing it twice activates level 2. Each level provides different tactile sensory stimulation, allowing for a customized training experience. The water intake is located under Anibo's tail, while the water outlet is on its belly.

The Anibo project began in August 2018 in Beijing, China, and was completed in February 2019. Throughout the design process, Ziru Wang and his team conducted extensive research, working closely with autistic children, their parents, and their teachers. This research revealed the common occurrence of tactile disorders among autistic children and the need for training aids to address their high tactile sensitivity. Anibo was designed to fulfill this need.

Anibo has been recognized for its innovative design and practicality, receiving the Iron A' Design Award in the Toys, Games, and Hobby Products category in 2019. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Anibo stands out for integrating industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world.

With its unique approach to tactile rehabilitation, Anibo offers a promising solution for autistic children with high tactile sensitivity. By incorporating therapy into their daily routines, this bath toy accelerates the recovery process and promotes a better understanding of skin touching through fragmented training. Anibo is a testament to the power of design in improving the lives of individuals with autism.