Joel Olympio with his Oasis glasses. Credit: University of Limerick

An Irish design graduate has developed a wearable device to reduce distracting visual stimuli for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). 

The 'Oasis' spectacles were designed by Joel Olympio, who has ADHD. Oasis uses electrochromic film technology on optical polycarbonate to dim mid-to-far peripheral vision to help the wearer stay focused on a task. The dimming level can be adjusted using a wheel on the frame, while a touch button disengages the effect. Oasis’ charging case is also a desk clock to help with time-keeping, while a haptic engine provides chimes to remind users of time passing and refocusing the mind. A special attachment allows prescription lenses to be used while wearing the spectacles. 

The design won Olympio the national James Dyson Award for Ireland. "It is when you delve into what it does and why it does it, that you realise that it is solving a complex and little-understood problem in a clever way. It does this while being timely, stylish and a hugely desirable product,” said Barry Sheehan, head of design at TU Dublin School of Art and Design and judge on the panel.