Storyboarding
The above story board gives an understanding of how thermometers are purchased, used and then discarded due to unsterile conditions. This depiction is rather progressive of the products lifecycle but gives a clear idea of problem statements such as sterilisation & improper disposal. For a health centre setting, where the aim is reusability for several people, the problem areas need to be addressed on the highest level.
The Lotus Blossom Research Chart below, helps get a more holistic view over the topic ensuring all problem areas are identified.
Overview
- Sterility
- Longevity
- End life cycle
Problem & Opportunity Area Delineation
Only 10% of e-waste is recycled each year out of which 9.2% is computer waste.
Mercury Thermometers: Banned due to hazardous element.
- Toxic
- Fragile
- Inaccurate
- Time consuming
Opportunity Areas
- How can I increase resilience?
- How can I increase usability?
- How can the product maintain sterile conditions?
- Should it elevate usability despite its simple function?
- How can I include Inclusivity?
Conceptualisation & Ideation
Modularity & Function
Sterility
The definition of sterile states absence of bacteria or other living microorganisms. Individuals going through treatment are vulnerable to infections through unsterile medical equipment. Improper storage of medical equipment is the most common area of concern in hospitals. The Smart+ UV Thermometer encompasses UVC (100-280nm) emitters which deplete 100% of living organisms within minutes. Although it is not absent of foreign debris which requires standard medical sterilisation after use, it eliminates the risk of infections.
Seamless Power Transfer
The connector train is essential for power transfer between dedicated batteries of the UV casing and the primary probe. Upon contact, not only does it charge but also sends signals to the primary PCB present inside the UV casing [highlighted in green], bringing all led's to equilibrium syncing them with the sterilisation process. A falsely placed probe will not be detected and the UV casing led indicator will convey this using rapid blinking.
UV Chamber Sterilisation Flow
Above is a simple five step depiction of the sterilisation process starting after use to ready to use. After the thermometer is used by a patient, it is wiped or washed before being placed into the UV chamber. The Chamber senses a removed and places probe and starts the sterilisation process indicated by a bright red colour in its led's. The colour gradually changes from red to orange, yellow and eventually green. this colour change also indicates the sterilising process %. The UV intensity slowly reduces throughout the process and eventually shuts off before the probe is removed again to avoid UV contact with the users skin. With set intervals, the UV chamber constantly sterilises the probe even when not in frequent use to maintain high sterility.
Primary Probe Interface
The probe interface is probably the most important aspect of the product. A long wide display provides higher visibility along with a subtle curvature which provides the user a slightly wider viewing degree. The displays matt texture prevents glaring reflections making it easier to view its readings at any angle. With white text and a black background, it provides the highest viewing contrast. Animated icons add character to the overall product also contributing to the users perception and mood.
Product Scenario
The display text maintains its bright white colour for high contrast, it syncs with the led light strip on the probe to visually guide a user to estimate his/her temperature reading. This feature that introduces inclusivity strongly aids those with visual impairments. With its 360 degree light strip, it also creates awareness for additional people present with the user eliminating their need of viewing the temperature reading unless serious.
Foam Board Mockup
A 1:1 scale mockup of the rudimentary form helps experience the products scale and form in real time.
Concept 01 Mockup
After the scale of the product was apt for encompassing the components, the design was then improved upon for added usability and elevated aesthetics.