Noise pollution is a major cause of sleep distruption for patients in hospital wards. In fact, one study recorded patients experiencing more than 60 interruptions per night on a ward. Sleep disruption leads to cardiac issues, long term insomnia, and even increased length of stay (LOS) in wards. As well as health impact, unplanned increased LOS in hospitals costs the NHS £1.4 billion.

The heart of this project has been driven by the stories of patients and clinicians who battle with noise pollution in hospitals everyday. This project also required research into clinical impact, acoustics, and rapid prototyping. As the teams Design Researcher and Head of Product, I collected vital research from clinicians, patients, and acoustic experts before designing proof of concept prototypes.

We have successfully created proof of concept models of flexible panelling comprised of interlocking metamaterial bricks. Basic efficacy testing of the panelling has been completed, and the project was recently exhibited at Imperial College London’s 2022 Work In Progress Show. Due to interest in the project, I was also selected to present my work to Her Royal Highness Princess Anne at the 2022 Royal Commission of 1851’s Presidential Dinner.