nir-vana innovation network

The company from Slovenia has been since 2017 focused on the development, production, marketing and selling of innovative wooden device for mitigation and prevention of issues, connected with the carpal tunnel syndrome. In the past years they received several awards for innovative aspect of the device at several international exhibitions and competitions (bronze medal at Invent Arena in Czechia, silver medal at the International Exhibition of Inventions in Croatia, special reward from Polish Innovators Association).

Repetitive tasks in many occupations and prolonged use of computers can (initially) lead to tingling, numbness, pressure and pain in the wrist and if untreated, also to carpal tunnel syndrome in many cases. To prevent and alleviate these issues, the Slovenian company developed wooden device with the ergonomic design, based on local vibration therapy. The latter works deeply on the muscle tissue and while it eases the pain, it also accelerates blood circulation and metabolism, that are both connected with the regeneration of cells. As a result, the tension of the muscle tissue is regulated and stimulated. Beneficial effects of regular use of the device were clinically tested by the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ljubljana and the results of the analysis confirmed the efficiency of the device.

The design of the device resembles a computer mouse, but the upper part is flattened and deepened in a way, that it allows hand (wrist) to be naturally placed on it, while performing tasks. The outer housing is made from wood, but the mechanism for vibration therapy is placed in the inner part and it works on batteries with the option for recharging by micro USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. The length of the device is around three quarters of a normal pencil.

The latest design of the device also includes LED (light-emitting diode) lights for indicating the selected therapy, since different parts of the body can be treated with it (wrist, shoulders, neck, etc.). Another important aspect is that company further adjusts the design of the device based on the feedback from the users and other technological options. The protection of the device and its design is covered with the model and trade mark, both on the European level.

The company has become important player on the domestic market and in the forthcoming period they would like to expand on foreign markets as well. They are looking for partners with established network of clients to cooperate under the distribution agreement. While the Slovenian company will provide agreed quantity of their device, the partner will be responsible for distribution on their respective markets and promotion.

Advantages & innovations

The main advantage of the innovative device is alleviation and prevention of issues like tingling, pressure, numbness and pain as a consequence of repetitive tasks, that are nowadays prevalent in many occupations. Effects can be noticed already after the first use and later issues can be mitigated and avoided with the regular use. Based on experience and feedback, more than 70 % of users reported beneficial effects of the device after using it regularly. Additionally, the effectiveness was also clinically tested and positive effects were confirmed. Other advantages are: - ergonomic design - small and convenient size - easy to use - operating on batteries with recharging option - possible to use for different areas of the body (hand, wrist, neck, shoulders)

Stage of development

Already on the market

Partner sought

Slovenian company is looking for international partners with established network for distribution. While partners should preferably have experience with distribution of accessories for health and wellness, other areas will be also taken into the account. Additionally, partners will be also responsible for marketing on their markets. Slovenian company will provide agreed quantities of the device and according to the agreement, provide other services and information to the partner according to the specific requirements on their markets.