Openwater - Reimagining diagnostics and therapy for a healthier future.

Openwater is transforming healthcare by turning what once required multi-million dollar MRI machines into portable, AI-powered systems that cost less than $1000. Using Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU), software, and hardware, they enable advanced treatments for cancer, stroke, and mental illness.

2025 - SF Design Week Honoree

Diagnostic, open-source, modular, med-tech wearable

We partnered with Openwater’s founder Mary Lou Jepsen and her exceptional team of engineers to design their first generation of diagnostic and therapeutic platforms: Open-Motion, which uses laser light and holography to monitor blood flow and oxygenation, and Open-LIFU, an AI-driven ultrasound system for precise cellular therapy. Both required modular, patient-friendly designs that adapt to various medical applications and body parts.

Open source medical treatment wearable device on arm.
Open source medical treatment wearable device on man's head..
Open source medical treatment wearable device on woman's stomach.
Diagnostic, open-source, modular, med-tech wearable part breakdown.
Diagnostic, open-source, modular, med-tech control hub.
Diagnostic, open-source, modular, med-tech wearable.

A major challenge was the strap system, which needed to securely hold multiple modules in precise alignment on curved anatomy. We also focused on safety and usability, integrating features like a visual fiducial system for accurate positioning and ventilated, approachable enclosures, balancing clinical precision with patient comfort, dignity, and hope.

Diagnostic, open-source, modular, med-tech wearable.
A compact med-tech diagnostic device with a custom adjustable strap.
A powerful, open source, med-tech device with the brand name 'Openwater' sitting on a white table.
Various prototypes of a body worn med-tech device with hardware and textile components.
  • A person holding a 3D printed prototypes for textile based design.
  • Cardboard prototypes for a med-tech device control hub.
  • 3D printed and textile prototypes of a med-tech wearable device.
  • 3D printed and textile prototypes of a med-tech wearable device.

More

A modern white desk with a playfully colored game console.
A hand holding a small med-tech device used for highly accurate ECG readings.
A yellow, custom designed massage ball with silicone grip being held in a hand.
A blue, cylindrical, AI powered sleep monitor mounted on a white wall.