Amun is a low cost spirometer. This is lung measurement device to measure the tidal and residual volumes of patients’ lungs in low income countries. Allowing data collection for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in countries where little data is available.
Team: Felix Crowther, Lidia Dynes Martínez, Jacob Mitchell, Beatriz Lopez Neira
Content: Design thinking · Service Design · Medical App Design · Prototypes
Context
Currently, spirometers are expensive and require forced breathing, an uncomfortable process for patients. Therefore, the brief required no forced breathing and low cost.
Areas explored over the course of the two term project were context and use of design, user experience, product form, ergonomics, transport, technology, manufacture, and maintenance. These ideas were realised through a lookalike prototype and a working prototype
The project was developed with close collaboration with the Royal Brompton (Mr Simon Ward: Head of Lung Respiratory Unit) and Prof. Peter Burnley (School of Public Health).
Below are some selected points on the need and skate holders analysis. India was selected as the country of focus and an in depth analysis was done of its health resources and demographics.
Design & use
After understanding the context, studying the interaction between technician-user and user-machine became our priority. We tested multiple shapes and designs.
This analysis allowed us to develop specifications for the device, both regarding the users and the electronics housed inside the device.
Design iterations
We developed a CAD model of three different designs. Eventually we decided on that design that best adapted to the specifications and 3D printed a looks-like prototype of it.
After user-testing and multiple iterations we came up with the final design. Some of the changes involved adding a 30º angle for an optimise use of the screen, better grip of the handle and a more comfortable shape, and hints with colour and shape to avoid user errors and ensure a more intuitive use.
Our modular design allowed for an easier transport and maintenance.
An interface was developed using Adobe XD. It was made to be used by a trained technician. The main specifications were:
· Medical theme - trustworthy and easily navigable interface
· Key use aspects: provide information, ensure correct use of device, track data
· Minimal aesthetics - focus on simplicity and usability - internal tool
