Songen
Exploration of patient safety and mobility in healthcare settings
Mariana Azevedo
- Year
- 2026 ·
- Mentors
- Rui Pedro Freire, José Luís Ferreira, Marco Gomes ·
- Degree
- Undergraduate in Design ·
- Course
- Product Design
This project was developed as part of the final project of the ESAD Undergraduate Degree in Product Design. The brief challenged students to develop an innovative product based on the theme "Energy", exploring one of three proposed subthemes — Safety, Well-being or Fun — through a process of research, ideation, experimentation and product development.
Developed under the Safety subtheme, "Songen" is a hospital mobility support system designed to promote safer, more independent and dignified movement for patients with reduced mobility, particularly older adults. Conceived as a hospital service, the project aims to humanise the healthcare environment while encouraging patients to remain active throughout their treatment.
The system integrates an intravenous (IV) support, a retractable seat and a set of sensors capable of interpreting the pressure applied by the user on the handles, adapting to their walking pace. With hub-mounted motors, posture sensors and fall prediction technology, Songen helps prevent accidents, supports patient mobility and can alert healthcare professionals whenever a risk situation is detected.