Abstract

Acupressure, a time-honored healing practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, is known for promoting relaxation, pain relief, and overall wellness with minimal side effects. Despite its benefits, the practice involves navigating a complex system of 361 acupuncture points, posing a challenge for individuals lacking in-depth knowledge or training. Additionally, professional acupressure treatments can be costly, limiting accessibility. To address these challenges, we have developed Ego, an AR Glasses Smart Assistant designed to make acupressure more accessible and effective for the general public. Ego uses augmented reality to provide an intuitive and user-friendly interface that guides users in locating and applying pressure to the correct acupressure points. It interacts with users via voice control to understand their health concerns and suggests appropriate acupressure points accordingly. The system offers visual guidance and step-by-step instructions, including animations that demonstrate the correct application of pressure, enabling users of all experience levels to perform acupressure accurately. Our market research revealed a strong demand for acupressure and massage therapies, particularly among health-conscious individuals. However, access to these therapies is often restricted by cost, with higher-income individuals more likely to receive regular treatments. Ego aims to bridge this gap by providing an affordable, at-home solution that democratizes access to the benefits of acupressure. Ego's design is informed by feedback from healthcare professionals, who recognize acupressure as a valuable complementary therapy. The UI is designed for simplicity and clarity, focusing on visual cues rather than text. The soothing color palette enhances the therapeutic experience, making the tool both practical and appealing. Ego represents a significant step forward in self-administered acupressure, empowering users to manage their health more effectively and affordably, and promoting holistic wellness across diverse populations.

Publication Date

6-14-2024

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Visual Communication Design (MFA)

Department, Program, or Center

Design, School of

College

College of Art and Design

Advisor

Mike Strobert

Advisor/Committee Member

Adam Smith

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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