The interactive bubble tube was designed to
provide sensory stimulation for children with multiple
disabilities. The device is a tube of water with an air
pump and a control unit that sends whirlling bubbles rising
up the tube. The bubbles illuminate the entire tube in
vibrant color. When turned on, the bubble tube rotates
through combinations of red, blue, green, and yellow light,
creating a soothing visual stimulation. When a button is
pressed, the changing color pattern stops and the display
illuminates the tube with the corresponding button color.
The ability to control the color of the tube is intended to
give the children the opportunity to control their sensory
stimulation. Ultimately the bubble tube serves a dual
purpose: a relaxation aid and a learning activity device.
Upon completion of the final design, three bubble tubes were
fabricated. One device was presented to the Shore
Educational Collaborative in Chelsea, MA, and the other two
will be given to other institutions with similar needs.
