This project aimed to design a “Smart nebulizer” by integrating a tri-parameter sensing platform in a compact form factor in order to real-time monitor the pulmonary progress of a chronic patient which acts as a feedback system during drug medication via oral nebulization. The purpose of the project is to design and develop the smart flow nebulizer with the key feature of controlling the dosage of the nebulizer based on monitored parameters such as forced expiratory volume (FEV), respiration rate, and pulse rate of the person – which are dynamic and critical variables in prescribing the drug dosage and period of usage for the patient. The NEBIRO came into being because of a need in the medical field for an inclusive device that would help patients.
There were many challenges to keep in mind, like the safety of the people who would use the device, the ease of understanding of the device functions, and making a functional device with the help of our team of engineers. The design process involved going back and forth in iterations to make sure both the design aspect and engineering aspects of the device were satisfied while still keeping it simple and ergonomic. A lot of user testing and cross-checks from hospital officials and client approvals were key aspects for the process of design to move forward.
The project began with a lean engineering approach creating functional proof of concepts and slowly evolved to innovate this marvel by customizing and iterating a lot on embedded systems, firmware, programming, correlations, algorithms, etc. With such humongous efforts from the engineering team, they progressed to the development of Technology & applications. Later, he incorporated design, which includes design research, conceptualization, user experience, ergonomics, prototype, testing, and mobile application development to connect and operate the Nebiro.
Integrated, Medical device, Nebiro, Real time, Smart Nebulizer
