Hexpol TPE materials for award-winning therapy ball

Malmö, Sweden – Hexpol TPE has collaborated with Icho Systems GmbH to develop an interactive ‘therapy ball’ employing thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) materials. 

Designed to react with coloured lights, vibrations, sound or music, the Ichó ball is adaptable to the needs of people with conditions such as dementia and autism.

The therapy ball is constructed from an injection moulded outer skin which houses the lights, speaker, sensors and electronics. 

Hexpol TPE’s Mediprene material was selected for its soft-touch haptics, good light permeability and because be easily cleaned – the medical-grade are resistant to the most commonly used cleaning fluids.

The TPE materials have also been tested for cytotoxicity according to ISO 10993-5 and for biocompatibility according to ISO 10993-10 (Intracutaneous Reactivity)/-11 (Acute Systemic Toxicity) and USP Class VI. 

In accordance with ISO 10993 - 10 'Tests for Sensitisation and Irritation,' a representative Mediprene compound was shown to have no sensitisation potential and classified as a non-sensitiser.

Since the ichó therapy ball was launched, it has already gathered a series of awards in Germany and across Europe for its novel design and social impact, stated Hexpol TPE. 

Photo: icho systems gmbh