Final Project - Alejandro Reyes - Fab Academy documentation

Final Project Overview

Ancora wearable sketch — Early concept sketch of the Ancora wearable device.

Ancora is a wearable device created to help users during moments of anxiety and panic attacks through guided breathing assistance.

The device monitors changes in heart rate and responds with gentle haptic and visual feedback that encourages the user to regulate their breathing rhythm.

The main goal of the project is to create a calming and non-invasive support tool that can be used in real-time during stressful situations.

Why I Chose This Project

Personal Motivation

This project was inspired by people close to me who experience panic attacks and anxiety episodes.

Seeing how overwhelming and vulnerable those moments can feel made me want to create something meaningful using engineering and design.

I believe technology should not only solve technical problems, but also improve emotional well-being and quality of life.

Ancora represents my attempt to combine electronics, wearable technology and empathy into a single project.

How the Device Works

Heart Rate Detection

A heart rate sensor monitors changes associated with stress or panic responses.

Guided Breathing

Vibrations and LED feedback guide the user through inhale and exhale cycles.

Personalized Experience

Feedback intensity and behavior can be customized for each user.

The wearable uses visual and haptic feedback to guide breathing exercises in a calm and subtle way.

An LED system indicates when to inhale and exhale, while a vibration motor reinforces the breathing rhythm physically.

To avoid overstimulation, the user will be able to customize or disable specific feedback systems depending on personal preference.

Mobile App Integration

When the device detects a possible panic attack, it is designed to automatically connect with a mobile application.

The app will display calming visual animations and breathing guidance to help the user regain control and reduce stress levels.

This integration also opens the possibility for future features such as tracking stress episodes, personalized settings and progress monitoring.

Main Challenges

Sensor Accuracy

Detecting real stress responses without generating false positives.

Wearable Size

Designing compact electronics that remain comfortable to wear.

Personalization

Every user experiences anxiety differently, so the system must adapt to individual needs.

Future Development

Throughout Fab Academy, I will continue improving the electronics, sensor reliability and wearable design of Ancora.

Future iterations may include wireless communication, battery optimization and a more refined enclosure for daily use.

My goal is to transform this prototype into a functional and meaningful wearable device that can genuinely help people during difficult moments.

May 2026

Timeline of the development of my Final Project