A calibration device for clinical infrared laser thermometers
David Vidaña Zavala
Dauik 19 is a reliable calibration device for infrared laser thermometers to ensure accurate fever detection during the COVID-19 pandemic
Timeline:
April - September 2020 (6 months)
Responsibilities:
I was a Design Engineer in the product development team of APR Devices
Client:
Kapter (https://www.kapter.mx/)
Problem:
The need for precision during the Pandemic: HMW guarantee infrared thermometer calibration for accurate fever detection?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, infrared thermometers became vital in detecting fever, a common symptom of the disease. However, maintaining the accuracy of these thermometers required regular calibration.
Regular calibration is crucial to maintain the precision of infrared thermometers.
Factors like environmental conditions, usage frequency, and wear and tear can affect their accuracy over time.
Implementing proactive calibration protocols instills confidence in readings, ensuring accurate temperature measurement and prompt identification of potential fever cases by healthcare professionals and frontline workers.
Process:
Through meticulous research, design, and fabrication we aimed to provide a calibration device that empowers thermal laboratories and hospitals.
In the initial phase, we conducted extensive research, engaging with professionals and end-users in thermal laboratories and hospitals. This allowed us to gain deep insights into their workflow, needs, and pain points related to precise calibration. By understanding their perspectives and gathering valuable feedback, we were able to shape the design process effectively.
With a thorough understanding of user requirements, we proceeded to the design phase.
Collaborating closely with our stakeholders, we developed prototypes that underwent rigorous testing and iteration. This iterative process allowed us to refine the device's functionality, ergonomics, and user interface to ensure optimal usability and ease of calibration.
We made significant improvements to the design based on feedback from real users and stakeholders. One of the most notable enhancements was replacing the button interface with a rotary interface, greatly enhancing the overall user experience of the product.
Once the design was finalized, we focused on fabrication, leveraging advanced manufacturing techniques and quality control measures. We ensured that the materials used were durable, reliable, and met the stringent standards of the healthcare industry.
hrough a user-centered design approach, we improved the accuracy and reliability of infrared laser thermometers while ensuring an intuitive and user-friendly calibration device.
Our focus on meeting the specific needs of thermal laboratories and hospitals allowed us to deliver a solution that empowers healthcare professionals to make informed decisions and provide high-quality care to their patients.
Solution:
Mastering temperature accuracy: A game-changing device for reliable readings
The design of the device consists of an electronically controlled heating element (non-reflective gray body plate) with an accuracy of +- 0.25°C and a resolution of up to 0.1°C. It can measure temperatures from ambient temperature up to 45°C. Digital thermometers are aimed at the plate, and the correct temperature reading can be confirmed.
The Perfect Blend of PLA and Aluminum for Enhance sustainability and Protection.
The housing design is made of PLA (polylactic acid) plastic using additive manufacturing methods, coated with natural aluminum plates. According to Kampf et al. (Kampf, 2020), aluminum is a material with the shortest latent lifespan for the SARS-CoV virus. Prior to manufacturing, an eco-design audit was conducted using the EdTool to ensure the product's sustainability.
Empowering Accuracy
The combination of precise temperature control, user-friendly operation, and sustainable design makes this product a reliable and environmentally conscious solution for accurate calibration of infrared laser thermometers.
Awards
Winner of the "Diseña México" National Design Award 2020. in the professional product design category.
Winner of the Special Award for the project with the greatest technological impact at the "Diseña México" National Design Award 2020.
Honorable mention in the Latin American challenge "Diseño Responde" 2020.
Honorable mention in the a! design award 2020.
Selected for the 8ª Bienal Iberoamericana de Diseño 2022.
Reflections:
Reflections + What I would do differently:
Enhance the Purpose of Prototypes. During this project, I went through more than 50 CAD iterations before reaching the final product. There were times when I 3D printed multiple prototypes, only to realize later that some of those prints could have been consolidated into a single iteration.
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Posted Jun 5, 2023
Dauik 19 is a reliable calibration device for infrared laser thermometers to ensure accurate fever detection during the COVID-19 pandemic
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