Project Brief
Asthma is a lung disease which causes the airways to become inflamed and narrowed at times. 1 in 13 Americans have asthma and it is the leading chronic disease in children. Inhalers are the most common treatment for asthma. The goal with Intermission is to modernize the maintenance inhaler and design a more effective solution with electronic actuation. By slowing down the aerosolized medicine into the lungs, medicine absorption is maximized.

Role
Industrial Designer

Duration
4 weeks

Materials
Powder Coated Aluminum, ABS

Dimensions
Width: 4.5 cm
Height: 9.6 cm







Visualizing The Problem


The problem with current inhalers is that they are difficult to use, have high error rates, and

One solution to mediating these painpoints is slowing the velocity of the aerosol coming out of an inhaler. This effectively improves absorption and increases efficacy of medicine delivery

What is an inhaler?
An inhaler is a medical device that delivers aerosolized medication directly to the lungs, primarily used for conditions like asthma. For treating asthma symptoms, bronchodilators are used to relax muscles and open up the airways to make it easier to breathe.

Background
Asthma is the leading chronic disease in children, but it also greatly affects adults. About 25 million Americans have asthma, 20 million of which are over the age of 18.  

Aerosol deposition with a pressurized metered-dose inhaler without a spacer (A), and with a spacer (B), compared to the soft mist inhaler (C) using radio scintigraphy.
- Source: RCJournal “Aerosol Delivery Devices for Obstructive Lung Diseases”






Current Methods of Medicine Delivery

Current inhaler designs are quite rudimentary, relying on mechanical methods to propel medication. This approach leaves significant room for user error, which can lead to ineffective treatments.

Unfortunately, the design of inhalers has not seen substantial improvements over the years, limiting their effectiveness for many patients.





Applying Nebulizer Technology to Inhalers 


Nebulizers are devices that deliver measured doses of liquid medicine slowly over time through the use of a vibrating mesh, ultrasonic atomizer, or air compressor.

This method of medicine delivery can be applied to inhalers to more precisely deliver medication in a more controlled and effective way.





Exploring Form Factors and Experiences


I experimented with different types of solutions from pMDIs with built-in spacers to designs utilizing more advanced propellant technologies, ultimately with the goal of maximizing medicine absorption into the lungs and creating an intuitive experience.





Getting a Sense of Size and Ergonomics


I began with rapid prototyping using cardboard to quickly explore size and ergonomics.

I then tested a 3D printed model with the aim of a comfortable neutral grip and head angle. The goal was to package new technology in a comfortable and familiar way.

How does it feel to use?





Form and Visual Inspiration


My goal for Intermission was to convey a sense of comfort in patients while also communicating the reliablity and sturdiness of the product.

The light blue aluminum case creates a comforting and high quality appearance setting Intermission apart from typical disposable inhalers.

Soft, confident, and friendly






Surface Analysis


To cement the soft and friendly apearance, Intermission’s case has no flat surfaces.





Interchangable Cartidges


Intermission uses interchangable medicine cartridges to reduce waste from disposable inhalers and allow users to change medications as needed.













Dust cap



Press button on top to actuate





Intuitive Communication  


An LED light strip and vibrating motor informs users about the inhaler’s battery life and provides reminders for patients at set intervals (6, 8, 12, or 24 hours) to use their inhaler.

A mechanical dosage counter makes it easy for patients to keep track of how much medication they have remaining.