Buzzies

Overview

In Buzzies, EWB at Ohio State is designing bilateral stimulation tappers — small devices that vibrate in an alternating manner on either side of the body, used in therapeutic settings to deliver bilateral sensory input. These devices originated in a therapy called eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), an evidence-based treatment for trauma and anxiety.

The project is conducted in partnership with the OSU Psychology Department. The team handles mechanical design, prototyping, and iterative testing to ensure the devices are durable, comfortable, and accessible for a wide range of users.

Impact

Commercial bilateral stimulation devices can be costly and inaccessible. By engineering affordable versions, Buzzies contributes directly to patient care research at Ohio State and expands access to therapeutic tools for people who benefit from EMDR-based treatment. EWB members gain practical mechanical design and prototyping experience in the process.