A sleep pod, also known as nap pod, napping pod, or nap capsule, is a special type of structure or chair that allows people to nap. Users use the pods to take private sleep breaks, often aided by technology and ambient features. Nap pods have emerged in corporate environments, hospitals, universities, airports and other public places. Their supposed efficacy is rooted in research that suggests that 20-minute naps could reduce signs of fatigue, boost energy levels, improve focus, boost productivity, improve mood, enhance learning, reduce stress and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Origins
Technological development of nap pods emerges from growing awareness of the health benefits of sleep and napping including productivity and cognitive function. The original sleep pod was designed by Kisho Kurokawa in 1979, in his design for the Capsule Inn Osaka.
Existing designs
Rest Space
The UK designed Rest Space aims to provide the user with 'the best space to rest', by creating 'the perfect environment' to wind down.
It is inspired by the traditional Japanese capsule hotels with its fully enclosed space. The Rest Space has soundproofing, smart lights, inbuilt voice-controlled meditation and a purified airflow.
The design was built for comfort using sustainable woods.
MetroNaps EnergyPod
The trademarked ‘pod chair’ is the world's first chair designed for napping in the workplace. The design is described as having a futuristic influence and features a 360-degree privacy shield as well as a leg rest that can be adjusted to ergonomically support the user’s body. The raised lower section elevates the feet, whilst leaving the knees slightly bent to relieve strain on the lower back and legs. This optimizes circulation and reduces pressure on the cardiac system, making it easier to relax.
Users can press the start button to start a pre-programmed 20 minute nap. They can relax while listening to sleep music and are woken after 20 minutes by a combination of light and vibration. The design features a built-in BOSE speaker, but can also be used with own headphones.
The EnergyPod also allows for usage tracking, so that data can be collected by the licensee as to how regularly and at what times the device is utilised. The exterior of the pod also displays a ‘status indicator’ that reads when the pod will next be free.
The Sleep Box
Designed by the arch group in 2009, Sleep Boxes are installed in airports and shopping centres. The designers state the products’ emphasis on providing ‘security and hygiene in urban infrastructure’. The pods can be rented by users in 30-minute blocks. The base mobile model is made of MDF, although custom designs are available in metal, glass and reinforced plastic variations. Bed boxes (2.5 m x 1.6 x 3m) can be constructed either individually or in sets of up to 3. Each pod has room for users to store their luggage and coats, as well as lay down. Ambience features include room lights, LED reading lights, electric blinds and air ventilation as well as electrical sockets for charging personal devices. Additional features such as TV screens, wifi access and coloured lighting are available for custom designs.
Napcabs
A German-designed variation of the sleep box, which offers a small desk alongside a bed. These pods can be rented by the hour, and have a limit of 12 hours per user. They are specifically optimised for layovers between flights.
Nine Hours Narita
Originating in Narita International Terminal, the nine hours nap pods form a tightly packed cell of capsules that guests can book for short naps as well as overnight stays. Each pod is 110 cm wide, 220 cm deep and 110 cm tall, fitted with a mattress like base. The capsules offer total visual privacy and can be locked from within. Users control a sleep ambience system which includes light, sound and temperature preferences. Because of the small size of the containers, many travel guides warn that the nine-hour pods are not ideal for users with claustrophobia.
Podtime
This pod is composed of a polycarbonate tube with frosted doors for privacy. Each is fitted with a custom mattress to the dimensions of the tube and has air circulation vents. Customisations to the design include different colours, leather-covered mattresses and digital radio. The pods can be dismantled and transported flat. This specific pod design became notable after being implemented in Facebook offices.