Product Design
Rendering
Sculpting
Momos
The project
Momos is a product design research project developed at Elisava that explores how everyday objects can serve as tools for emotional accompaniment and sensory grounding. Addressing the prevalence of daily anxiety in contemporary life, the project moves beyond clinical or therapeutic approaches to offer accessible, non-invasive design solutions for emotional well-being. The proposal consists of a set of portable characters and objects designed to act as "sensory anchors" to the present moment through material experiences. By leveraging emotional design and the use of cold temperatures as a tactile stimulus, Momos aims to facilitate self-regulation and body reconnection during moments of restlessness or overstimulation in a user's daily routine.
The design
The design of Momos functions as a sensory anchor, utilizing materiality and form to provide emotional comfort and grounding.
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Form and Character: The objects are designed as "companion characters," using emotional design principles to foster an affective bond and a sense of familiarity for the user.
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Thermal Stimulus: The pieces are engineered to leverage cold temperatures, providing a tactile experience that helps the user reconnect with the present moment during overstimulation.
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Materiality and Interaction: Through a combination of specific materials and a "sensory patch," the design ensures the object remains a constant, accessible presence in the user’s environment.
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Functional Packaging: The design extends to a compact, portable case that facilitates transport, ensuring the objects are available as tools for self-care whenever needed throughout the day.
Process
The development of Momos was driven by an exploratory design approach focused on emotional regulation and sensory interaction. Theoretical Foundation: The research integrated studies on the nervous system and how physical sensations can shift attention back to the body during moments of daily anxiety. Sensory Exploration: A key part of the process involved investigating cold temperature as a primary stimulus to trigger an immediate sensory awareness response. Prototyping for Portability: The project evolved through the creation of two distinct product lines: a character-object and a sensory patch, designed to be easily integrated into daily routines. Technical Integration: The process included designing a specialized portable container, inspired by vacuum flask technology, to maintain the objects' specific thermal properties while in transit.
