Cebu Institute of Technology University

DESIGNING WEIGHTED BLANKETS

USING KANSEI ENGINEERING

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

Creative Thinking Tools and Techniques
S.Y. 2024 – 2025

Proponents:

Cesar, Cesar M.
Dela Cruz, Zina E.
Del Mar, Jo-er Q.
Geronimo, Gabrielle Gwyn S.
Muta, Marfred Adonnis Q.
 I. INTRODUCTION

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in products that enhance well-being,

particularly those that promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. Among these,

weighted blankets have gained significant attention for their therapeutic benefits. Designed to

distribute deep pressure evenly across the body, weighted blankets simulate a technique known as

deep pressure stimulation (DPS), which is believed to increase serotonin and melatonin levels

while reducing cortisol, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

Research suggests that weighted blankets can be beneficial for individuals suffering from

anxiety, insomnia, and sensory disorders, making them a promising tool in the realm of health and

wellness products. However, while much of the focus has been on the physical effects of these

blankets, their emotional impact on users remains underexplored. Understanding the emotional

responses triggered by weighted blankets—such as comfort, security, and satisfaction—can

provide valuable insights for improving product design and user experience.

This study aims to investigate the key emotional attributes associated with the use of weighted

blankets and how they influence user satisfaction. By applying Kansei Engineering, a methodology

that connects product design to emotional responses, the researchers seek to explore how specific

features—such as weight, fabric, and texture—affect users’ emotional well-being. The insights

gained from this research will guide the development of a weighted blanket that not only address

physical comfort but also enhance the emotional connection users have with the product.
Objectives

1. Capture the emotional impact of using weighted blankets.

2. Understand the sensory and emotional triggers that influence user satisfaction.

3. Explore design elements that will enhance positive emotional responses and minimize

negative ones.

Research Questions

1. How do users emotionally experience the use of weighted blankets?

2. What sensations and feelings are triggered by specific features (e.g., weight, texture,

temperature)?

3. How can these emotional responses guide improvements in weighted blanket design?
 METHODOLOGY

Data Collection

Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with four participants

selected via convenience sampling. Participants were chosen based on their regular use of

weighted blankets, allowing for in-depth exploration of their experiences. The interviews focused

on emotional responses, perceptions of physical attributes (weight, texture, and design), and

suggestions for improvement. Each interview lasted approximately 15-30 minutes and was

recorded with consent, then transcribed for thematic analysis. The qualitative analysis of interview

data is particularly valuable for this research, as it allows us to delve deeply into users' emotional

responses and preferences for our weighted blanket design. According to Brinkmann and Kvale

(2015), interviews offer a rich, detailed understanding of user experiences that cannot be captured

by quantitative methods alone. By directly engaging with participants, we can explore the

emotional attributes—such as comfort, warmth, and relaxation—that are central to the

effectiveness of our product.

Interview Questions

1. Can you describe your overall experience using a weighted blanket?

2. How often do you use your weighted blanket, and in what situations?

3. What emotions or feelings arise when you use the weighted blanket?

4. Can you describe how different emotions come up based on the features of the blanket?

5. How does the weight of the blanket specifically affect your emotional state?
 6. Does the appearance (color, design) of the blanket affect how you feel about using it?

7. Which physical aspects (weight, texture, material) do you think impact your emotional

experience the most?

8. Can you identify any specific moments when the blanket’s texture or fabric made a

significant emotional difference?

9. Is there any discomfort related to the weight or material of the blanket?

10. How do you think the emotional attributes you experience from the weighted blanket

contribute to your overall well-being?

11. What changes would you suggest, to improve the emotional impact of the blanket?

Data Analysis

The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes and

patterns related to users' emotional experiences with weighted blankets. First, the transcriptions

were reviewed multiple times to familiarize the researcher with the content. Subsequently, initial

codes were generated based on recurring ideas and sentiments expressed by participants. These

codes were then grouped into broader themes reflecting the emotional attributes associated with

the product, such as calmness, security, and comfort.

Thematic analysis is highly suited for this research, as it allows us to systematically

examine interview data to identify key emotional attributes users value in weighted blankets. Joffe

(2015) highlights that thematic analysis helps uncover recurring themes from qualitative data, such

as comfort, warmth, and relaxation. By analyzing these patterns, we can align our product design

with user needs, ensuring the final blanket delivers the emotional benefits that matter most to users.
 RESULTS

Answer of the First Interviewee

1. It feels very relaxing and calming. The weight makes me feel safe, like I’m being hugged.

2. I use it every night when I sleep, and sometimes when I’m feeling stressed.

3. I feel calm, secure, and less anxious.

4. The weight makes me feel relaxed, and the soft fabric makes me feel cozy.

5. The weight helps me feel more grounded and relaxed, like I’m being held.

6. The neutral color helps me feel calm, but the design isn’t as important as the weight and

texture.

7. The weight and the soft texture. The weight calms me, and the softness adds comfort.

8. When I’m stressed, the softness helps me relax even more.

9. Sometimes it can feel too warm, but the weight and fabric are generally comfortable.

10. It helps me feel less stressed and improves my sleep, which makes me feel better overall.

11. The weight is most important, then the texture. Design matters less.

12. Maybe offer adjustable weights or different fabric options for more comfort.

13. Calmness and comfort, like it already does, but maybe more flexibility with the weight.
Answer of the Second Interviewee

1. It’s been very comforting. The blanket’s weight really helps me feel more relaxed.

2. I use it every night before bed, and sometimes when I’m feeling anxious during the day.

3. I feel calm, secure, and less stressed.

4. The weight definitely makes me feel more relaxed, while the softness adds to the

comfort.

5. The weight helps me settle down, especially when I’m anxious. It feels like pressure that

calms me.

6. Not much. I think the texture and weight are more important, but a calm color is still nice.

7. Definitely the weight and the softness. The weight gives me a calming effect, and the

fabric makes it cozy.

8. Yes, when I’m anxious, the softness is really soothing.

9. Sometimes if it’s too hot, the weight can feel heavy, but the texture is always

comfortable.

10. It helps me unwind and feel less anxious, which improves my sleep and mood.

11. The weight is the most important, then the texture. The design is less important, but still

adds to the experience.

12. Maybe different weight options for different moods, or even more breathable fabrics for

comfort.

13. More calmness and relaxation. Having more control over the weight would help with

that.
Answers of the Third Interviewee

1. It’s been really helpful for calming down. The heaviness feels like a gentle pressure that

helps me relax.

2. I use it a few times a week, mostly when I’m feeling stressed or having trouble sleeping.

3. I feel more peaceful, less anxious, and it helps me feel safe.

4. The weight makes me feel calm and grounded, and the soft texture adds a feeling of

comfort.

5. The weight helps me feel secure, like it’s pressing away the stress.

6. Not really. For me, the weight and softness matter more than how it looks.

7. The weight is the most important, but the softness of the material adds to the coziness and

calm.

8. Yes, when I’m feeling anxious, the softness helps me feel more at ease.

9. If it gets too warm, the heaviness can feel uncomfortable, but usually it’s fine.

10. It helps me calm down and sleep better, which improves my overall mental health.

11. Weight is the most important, followed by texture. Design is nice but not essential.

12. Maybe make it more breathable for when it’s warm, and offer more weight options.

13. It should keep focusing on calmness and comfort. Maybe customizable weight options

could help with that.

Answers of the Fourth Interviewee

1. It’s been very relaxing. The weight helps me feel more comfortable and calm.

2. Almost every night, especially when I need to relax or if I’m feeling stressed.

3. I feel calm, relaxed, and less anxious.

4. The heaviness of the blanket gives me a sense of security, while the soft material makes it

feel comforting.

5. The weight makes me feel grounded and helps me relax more deeply.

6. Not really. The feel of the blanket is more important to me than how it looks.

7. The weight and softness. The weight calms me, and the soft fabric adds to the comfort.

8. Yes, the softness is especially soothing when I’m feeling anxious or stressed.

9. Only if it gets too hot, but that’s rare. The weight itself is usually comfortable.

10. It really helps me manage stress and sleep better, which improves my overall well-being.

11. The weight is most important, followed by the softness of the texture. Design doesn’t

matter as much.

12. Maybe offering different weight levels or making it more breathable for warmer nights.

13. Calmness and comfort are key. I’d like the option to adjust the weight to match how I’m

feeling.
 DISCUSSION OF RESULTS

Thematic analysis involves identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns (themes) within

the data. For this analysis, the researchers focused on the emotional responses and product

attributes (weight, texture, material, and design) of the weighted blankets, as these are key factors

in Kansei Engineering.

Emotional Themes

Across the four interviews, several emotional themes were repeatedly mentioned:

- Calmness and Relaxation

All four interviewees consistently expressed feelings of calmness and relaxation when

using the weighted blanket. These emotions were directly associated with the weight of the

blanket. Interviewees mentioned feeling "calm," "relaxed," and "less stressed," often emphasizing

the soothing effect of the blanket's heaviness.

Interviewee 1: The weight makes me feel relaxed.

Interviewee 2: I feel more peaceful, less anxious.

Interviewee 3: The weight helps me feel secure.

Interviewee 4: I feel calm, relaxed.

 - Security and Safety

Another prevalent theme is the sense of security or safety that the blanket provides. This feeling

was also linked to the weight of the blanket, which gave interviewees a sensation of being "hugged"

or "grounded."

Interviewee 1: The weight makes me feel safe.

Interviewee 2: The heaviness feels like gentle pressure that helps me relax.

Interviewee 3: It feels like pressure that calms me.

Interviewee 4: The weight makes me feel grounded.

- Stress Relief and Anxiety Reduction

Stress Relief and Anxiety Reduction

- Three out of four interviewees specifically mentioned that using the weighted blanket helped

them manage stress or anxiety. This indicates that the product serves an important emotional

function by promoting mental well-being.

Interviewee 1: I use it when I’m feeling stressed.

Interviewee 2: I feel less anxious.

Interviewee 3: It helps me feel less anxious.

Interviewee 4: It helps me manage stress.

Physical Attributes Influencing Emotions

Interviewees frequently discussed how specific physical features of the blanket—weight, texture,

material, and design—contributed to their emotional experience. These attributes are key to Kansei

Engineering, which seeks to design products that elicit specific emotional responses.

- Weight as a Key Emotional Driver

All interviewees identified the weight of the blanket as the most important factor in evoking

emotional responses. The weight was commonly described as contributing to feelings of calmness,

security, and relaxation.

Interviewee 1: The weight makes me feel relaxed.

Interviewee 2: The weight definitely makes me feel more relaxed.

Interviewee 3: The weight helps me settle down, especially when I’m anxious.

Interviewee 4: The weight helps me feel comfortable and calm.

- Texture and Softness

While weight was emphasized, three of the interviewees also highlighted the importance of the

texture or softness of the blanket. The texture was associated with a sense of coziness and comfort,

which further enhanced the emotional experience.

Interviewee 1: The soft fabric makes me feel cozy.

Interviewee 2: The softness adds to the comfort.

 Interviewee 3: The soft texture makes it comforting.

Interviewee 4: The soft material makes it feel comforting.

- Material and Warmth

There were a few instances where interviewees mentioned that the material of the blanket could

be uncomfortable if it became too warm. This indicates that while the material can enhance

comfort, it can also detract from the experience if not properly designed for breathability.

Interviewee 1: Sometimes it can feel too warm.

Interviewee 2: The heaviness can feel uncomfortable if it gets too warm.

Interviewee 3: The blanket can feel too hot, but otherwise comfortable.

Interviewee 4: The weight can be uncomfortable if it’s too warm.

- Design and Appearance

The design or appearance of the blanket was consistently identified as less important compared

to weight and texture. Most interviewees mentioned that while a calm color was nice, the design

didn’t significantly affect their emotional experience.

Interviewee 1: The design isn’t as important as the weight and texture.

Interviewee 2: The texture and weight are more important than how it looks.

Interviewee 3: The feel of the blanket is more important than the design.

Interviewee 4: Design doesn’t matter as much as weight and texture.

Suggestions for Improvement

In the final part of the interviews, participants were asked to suggest improvements for the

emotional impact of the product. This provides insight into how the emotional and physical

attributes could be enhanced further through Kansei Engineering.

- More Breathable Materials

To address the occasional discomfort related to warmth, interviewees suggested the use of

more breathable fabrics to make the blanket more comfortable during warmer conditions.

Interviewee 2: Maybe more breathable fabrics would help.

Interviewee 3: More breathable materials for warm nights would be good.

Interviewee 4: Make it more breathable for warmer nights.

Summary of Key Themes

The following key themes emerged from the interviews and are relevant to the design of weighted

blankets using Kansei Engineering principles:

1. Calmness and Relaxation: The most consistent emotional response, directly influenced by the

weight of the blanket.

2. Security and Safety: A sense of being grounded or hugged, which also stems from the weight.

3. Stress Relief and Anxiety Reduction: Weighted blankets help manage stress and anxiety,

contributing to improved well-being.

4. Weight: The most critical physical feature that drives emotional responses, particularly calmness

and relaxation.

5. Texture: Softness and fabric comfort play secondary but significant roles in enhancing the

emotional experience.

6. Design: While design is nice, it’s less important than weight and texture in shaping emotional

responses.

7. Breathable Materials: Suggested improvements to make the product more versatile and

comfortable, especially during warmer seasons.

Product Category: Health and Wellness Products

Product: Weighted Blankets

Key Emotional Attributes

Based on the interviews, key emotional attributes for weighted blankets include (arranged from

the most valued to the least):

Comfort: The texture and softness were critical in making users feel comforted. Ensuring a plush,

soft fabric and even weight distribution for maximum physical and emotional comfort.

Calmness: Users expressed that the blanket made them feel calm and relaxed. A design that

promotes tranquility through gentle pressure distribution and soothing textures.

Warmth: Some users liked the blanket for its warmth, which made them feel cozy. It is important

to use materials that provide warmth without causing overheating.

Security: Many participants felt secure under the weight of the blanket. Mimicking a comforting

embrace with carefully designed weights and materials that feel secure.
 DESIGN IDEATION

Design Concept 1: Ultra – Plush Serenity Blanket (Comfort)

This weighted blanket design focuses on providing comfort through thoughtful materials

and features. The outer fabric is made of high-grade mink, offering a plush, velvety texture that

feels like hugging a stuffed animal, enhancing emotional comfort. Inside, hypoallergenic glass

beads are sewn into 4x4-inch quilted pockets for balanced weight distribution, delivering a

consistent, calming pressure. The soft pastel colors, such as pink, baby blue, and lavender, are

chosen for their psychologically calming effects and enhancing emotional comfort. Additionally,

a bamboo-derived rayon lining adds breathability and softness, ensuring the blanket stays cozy

without overheating, making it ideal for anxiety relief and better sleep.
Design Concept 2: Cool Calm Breathable Blanket

This weighted blanket design prioritizes calmness and relaxation, especially for those

prone to overheating. The outer fabric is crafted from breathable, silky Tencel® made from eco-

friendly eucalyptus fibers, which prevents heat retention while remaining soft against the skin.

Inside, a cotton-polyester blend absorbs moisture and keeps the sleeper cool by reducing heat

buildup. An additional cooling layer, featuring moisture-wicking fabric and cooling gel fibers,

further promotes air circulation. The fill consists of organic micro-glass beads housed in 3x3 inch

pockets, ensuring maximum weight distribution without shifting. The blanket's light, cool shades,

such as sky blue, mint green, and soft gray, create a tranquil, spa-like atmosphere that promotes

mental relaxation and serenity. This design is ideal for stress relief in warmer climates or for those

who tend to overheat at night.

Design Concept 3: Cozy Therm Heated Blanket

This weighted blanket design emphasizes warmth and coziness, making it ideal for colder

climates or for users seeking comforting heat. The fill consists of ceramic beads, housed in large,

quilted pockets that evenly disperse warmth while preventing overheating. The outer fabric, made

of faux fur or sherpa fleece, adds a luxurious feel and efficiently traps heat, ensuring maximum

warmth. The blanket also features microfiber fabric with insulating properties that wick away

moisture, preventing sweating. For additional warmth, optional USB-powered heating wires offer

adjustable settings with automatic shut-off after 1 to 3 hours, ensuring safe use. The rich, earthy

tones of deep burgundy, forest green, and dark charcoal create a cozy, visually comforting

atmosphere. Altogether, this design blends heat retention, weight, and softness to deliver a

soothing, warm experience.

FINAL DESIGN

After carefully considering the insights from our interviews, the researchers recognized the

importance of creating a product that embodies all the key emotional attributes — comfort,

warmth, relaxation, calmness, security, and coziness. To achieve this, Innovisionaries decided to

fuse the best elements from the three initial concepts into a single, well-balanced design.
The final design of this weighted blanket combines several features that collectively ensure

comfort, relaxation, calmness, security, and coziness.

• Outer Fabric: The high-grade mink fabric on one side provides plush comfort, offering a

soothing, luxurious texture that promotes relaxation. The reverse side, made from Tencel®,

is silky smooth and breathable, preventing overheating, making it ideal for staying cool in

warmer conditions while still feeling secure. This blend of fabrics delivers both softness

and breathability, catering to comfort and calmness.

• Heat Technology: The optional USB-powered heating wires embedded within the inner

lining offer adjustable warmth settings, providing extra warmth on cold nights without the

risk of overheating. This feature enhances the sense of coziness and security, particularly

in colder environments, while the automatic shut-off ensures safety.

• Fill: The combination of hypoallergenic glass beads and ceramic beads, housed in 4x4-

inch quilted pockets, ensures even distribution of weight. The glass beads provide balanced

weight for deep pressure stimulation, promoting a calming and secure feeling, while the

ceramic beads help retain heat for warmth. This contributes to both relaxation and

security.

• Inner Layer: The bamboo-derived rayon adds a breathable, moisture-wicking layer that

keeps the user cool and fresh, perfect for year-round comfort. This further enhances the

sense of calmness and relaxation, especially for users who tend to overheat.

• Shape & Size: The oversized dimensions (72x85 inches) with a slightly rounded shape

provide full-body coverage, ensuring the blanket drapes snugly, adding to the sense of
 security and comfort. The weight options (3 to 10 kilos) offer flexibility to match different

preferences, enhancing the overall comfort and calmness.

• Color: The blanket is baby blue on one side and ash gray on the other, offering different

moods and experiences. The baby blue side promotes a soft, tranquil, and comforting

atmosphere, ideal for relaxation, while the ash gray side adds a sleek, modern look, perfect

for a more neutral and calming effect. The dual-sided design allows users to choose based

on their emotional and physical needs at any given time.

 BIBLIOGRAPHY

Brinkmann, S., & Kvale, S. (2015). Interviews: Learning the craft of qualitative research

interviewing (3rd ed.). SAGE Publications. https://doi.org/10.1002/nha3.20251

Joffe, H. (2015). Thematic analysis. In C. Willig & W. Stainton-Rogers (Eds.), The SAGE

handbook of qualitative research in psychology (pp. 209-223). SAGE Publications.

Norman, D. A. (2004). Emotional design: Why we love (or hate) everyday things. Basic Books.

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1537-4726.2004.133_10.x
 APPENDIX A

Library Student Access Report

 APPENDIX B

Grammarly Performance Report