The Orpheus System aims to tackle two key challenges faced by adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): the difficulties many individuals with ASD encounter in socialising and communication, and atypical sensitivity to sensory stimuli, which can severely impact mood, focus, and social interactions, sometimes leading to meltdowns. The Orpheus System strives to offer adults with ASD opportunities for deep social connection and creative expression while constructing positive sensory spaces on the move or at home.
Drawing inspiration from research on play and music therapies, as well as the benefits of sensory rooms, The Orpheus System is a collaborative, musical communication game designed for adults with severe ASD. In this game, 1-4 players take turns placing glyphic tiles on a magnetic playing board in a freeform arrangement. Each combination triggers a unique assemblage of ambient musical tones and textures. These compositions can be played through an attachable soundbar or through Bluetooth-connected sound devices. When the players have finished building their soundscape, they can have the final audio and visual patterns sent to their phone by pressing a “capture” button on the game board, creating a shareable external memory of this social experience. Through this gameplay structure, users will be able to have collaborative, creative, social experiences without the stress of verbal communication.
The modular design of the product allows for additional enhancements like audio-reactive light patterns and textural visualizations through a separately purchasable projector, bringing sensory room experiences to any setting. Individuals can also use the system independently for creative expression or to create calming sensory environments.
Researchers in this music improvisation class in Detroit have observed that group musical improvisation activates the same brain architecture in adults with severe ASD as verbal communication does in neurotypical adults. In addition, academic research also found that light-and-sound sensory rooms can improve mood, focus, and socialisation for autistic adults. We hope this product will provide users with a platform for fun, creativity, expression, social connection, and a positively stimulating sensory environment.
