Nighty Night: A Wearable Wristband for Better Sleep

Combining Traditional Chinese Acupressure with Modern Technology

According to the National Alliance On Mental Illness, over one-third of Americans report difficulty sleeping. While there are many existing sleep aids, such as music and incense, they often work for some people and not for others. Additionally, some sleeping aids require active efforts on the part of the user, which not everyone can stick to. Designer Meizhu Li recognized the need for a scientific method that does not require the user’s active involvement but easily solves the problem of insomnia.

Nighty Night is a wearable wristband that combines traditional Chinese acupressure with modern technology. It utilizes a low-frequency current to stimulate certain acupoints that can improve sleep quality. Unlike other sleep aids, Nighty Night does not require the user to actively participate in the process, making it a convenient solution for those struggling with insomnia.

The technology behind Nighty Night is low-frequency pulse current. The pulse is delivered through electrode pads that are taped to the user's skin. To ensure even stimulation between the electrode pads, the design accounts for variations in body size and the location of acupoints. This technology effectively stimulates the specific acupoints that help people sleep without requiring the user to pinpoint their precise location.

Using Nighty Night is simple. Before going to bed, the user opens the housing of the wristband, puts it on, and sets the intensity and duration of the electric stimulation. Once ready, the user switches on the device and can comfortably sleep through the night. In the morning, the user removes the wrist strap and puts it back into the box, where it will be automatically charged. The electronic part of the wristband can be easily taken out and cleaned or replaced.

Meizhu Li started working on Nighty Night in September 2018 and completed the project in May 2019. The design was inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, which uses acupressure to improve sleep quality. There are approximately 19 acupoints on the body that can enhance sleep, with the most effective ones located at the wrist and calf. Given the accessibility and concentration of acupoints on the wrist, Li decided to design a wristband that stimulates these points for improved sleep.

The effectiveness of the technology used in Nighty Night is supported by research. A graduate student at the University of Traditional Chinese Medicine compared the effects of acupuncture and pulse current instruments on sleep quality for people with depressive insomnia. The results showed that both methods improved sleep quality, with no significant difference between the two groups. This research further validates the use of pulse current technology in Nighty Night.

Nighty Night has received recognition for its innovative design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Wearable Technologies Design category in 2020. This award acknowledges well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Nighty Night stands out for integrating industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings, and contributing to a better world.

Nighty Night is a groundbreaking solution for those struggling with insomnia. By combining traditional Chinese acupressure with modern technology, this wearable wristband offers a convenient and effective way to improve sleep quality. With Nighty Night, a good night's sleep is just a wristband away.