CIGAIR
SMOKING CESSATION AID
PROJECT TYPE
Independent, 2017
TOOLS
CAD|3D-Printing|Woodwork|User Research
PROBLEM
Existing smoking cessation aids prolong nicotine dependence.
CIGAIR is a smoking cessation aid I conceived of while recovering from surgery following a spontaneous pneumothorax.
Engineered to mimic the sensation of drawing on a lit cigarette, Cigair satisfies the urge to smoke and can be used anywhere.
Smoke, vapor, and drug-free, this device is intended to help end rather than prolong nicotine dependence.
The 3D printed case uses tension to secure it and prevents particulate matter from entering the transverse air passage while stowed in a pocket or bag.
HOW IT WORKS
Use Cigair like you would a cigarette; inhalation is met with air resistance similar to that felt when drawing on a lit cigarette.
A series of chambers within achieves this effect. The supplemental oral fixation and familiar motor/ritual activity implicit in usage make it easy to forget you're not smoking.
PROCESS
Early wooden prototypes
The tension case was 3D printed and smoothed with acetone vapor. Plastic bumpers allow for a secure yet not too snug fit. I wanted to the case to aesthetically enhance rather than hide the device. It is easy and satisfying to use.
Many iterations and rounds of user testing resulted in a desirable object with just the right air resistance.
Working prototypes were distributed to current smokers and evaluated on look and feel.
The air chambers were cut with a lathe from hard maple.
FAQ
