Keep the temperature: Product development of a patient warming system
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Program
Product development (MPPDE), MSc
Publicerad
2021
Författare
Bengtsson, Fabian
Tang, Shuyi
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
In this thesis, the product development of a medical product is done. The product is
to solve the problem of low body temperature in patients. Current products lack active
heating to rewarm patients while others cause burn injuries due to a high heating rate.
The developed product should provide safe but efficient active heating. While also be
comfortable for patients and paramedics to use. Lastly, it should also do it at a lower
cost.
The thesis began with a problem investigation and market analysis. Interviews with experts
and literature studies were done to find and extract information about the problem.
Analysis of the information brought the identification of two key markets. A requirement
list was done by interpreting gathered statements and information. A function-means
tree was also done, to identify relevant functions that were desired for the developed
product. A top-down generation and screening of concepts according to function-means
tree, were followed throughout the thesis. Through three loops an extensive exploration
of the design space had been done and three concepts remained of the initial 15. After
further evaluation, the final concept was chosen. As the final concept was chosen further
detailing could be done, such as investigation of materials and heating method. To be
able to determine the appropriate heating effect physical test were performed. The tests
showed that the proposed materials for the layers worked as intended. However, calculations
based on the tests revealed the lack of performance in terms of heating rate. But it
still provided heating to the patient. An investigation of battery culminated in a decision
to use laptop batteries. Cost estimation was done to evaluate the value of the product,
it highlighted a costly layer which was subsequently removed. Finally, the final product
had unique features to set it apart from competitor products. Such as passive and active
warming in combination. While the let down of the product was its heating rate, often
inferior to competitors. But unlike competitors, major body parts were easily accessible
by a zip structure.
In summary, this thesis developed a product with a sample heating rate to heat patients
suffering from low body temperature. A combination of active and passive warming
provided safe and reliable heating. The developed product does this while providing
comfort for both patients and paramedics. The material cost of the product ensured that
it would be able to be used without much thought.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
low body temperature, active rewarming, pre-hospital, operation theater , burn injuries, safe, efficient, comfortable, low cost