Industrial - Bachelors
ORBIT is a tangible nursing tool which monitors the amount of pressure applied to multi-layer compression bandage systems when treating Venous Leg Ulcers (VLUs). Through supporting the responsibilities of nurses, ORBIT hopes to facilitate the process of receiving treatment and its rate of success.
“Within Australia, over 420 000 people suffer from chronic wounds, which consumes more than $3 billion worth of the country’s aged care and health care budget.”
(Wounds Australia, 2022)
Venous Leg Ulcers (VLUs) are a form of chronic wound which primarily impact individuals over the age of 55. The occurrence of these ulcerations is a common consequence of underlying health conditions and in order to treat them accordingly, multi-layer compression bandage systems are applied on a regular basis. The primary and secondary research conducted revealed four key themes: communication, nursing education, holistic care and patient education. After phases of analysis, the project veered to focus on how nursing education could facilitate the treatment of VLUs.
Research found that nurses and health care providers receive minimal wound care training prior to entering the workforce. As a consequence of this, nurses often lack the confidence to apply these compression bandages at the correct rate of pressure. This discretion when applying compression bandages is essential, as the rate of pressure being applied to a bandage is dependent on the patient’s existing medical condition and the properties of different types of bandages.
When analysing the market, it was made apparent that products focus on short term solutions which benefit the patient on a cellular level. Whilst this is an integral aspect of treatment, educating medical professionals on how to use these products appropriately is paramount to ensuring optimal care.
ORBIT. The learning tool which assists nurses in the application of multi-layer compression bandage systems. Through the use of haptic feedback and colour cues, ORBIT communicates to users whether they are applying the correct amount of pressure to compression bandages. Visual cues allow nurses to focus on their application technique without staring at a numerical value, whilst haptic feedback builds confidence through the acquisition of tacit knowledge.
ORBIT adapts to the requirements of any multi- layer bandage system. With multiple interchangeable reams of different diameters, almost any bandage system can be used. The silicone grips lining each ream are colour coordinated according to their diameter.
1. Simply press the interchange button.
2. Pinch the base plate of the device.
3. Slide your bandage ream out.
4. Insert your next ream and bandage into the device following the directional identifiers.
5. Then clip your base plate back into place before pressing your interchange, returning it to it’s static position.
And just like that you are ready to start measuring all over again!
The inserted ream holding the bandage in place runs along a track when force is applied. This force is converted to a pressure sensor which uses Laplace’s Law to convert the kilogram-force (kgf) into a pressure reading (mmgh). When this pressure reading exceeds the required pressure for the patient, ORBIT will communicate this to you using coloured lighting cues and haptic feedback.
We know sanitation is imperative to patient care, which is why ORBIT can be fully disassembled with six screws. The ABS body and silicone grips can be quickly wiped down or fully separated from one another when thorough sanitation is required. Additionally, it’s construction means parts can be replaced if broken or interchanged if worn.
ORBIT uses simple interface screens to communicate with the user.
1. The user is prompted to tap their ID card to connect to their profile.
2. The user is then questioned whether they would like to access data or apply a bandage.
3. A patient reference number is then able to be entered by the user.
4. The prescribed bandage system for the patient is then made aware to the user.
5. The user is able to load the bandage and their pressure reading is displayed on the screen in tandem with colour cues and haptics.
SKETCHES – Sketching allowed for various form and detail ideation. However, was also used to communicate the workings of internal mechanisms and systems.
PROTOTYPING – Prototyping was a key step in determining the ergonomics and physical functionality of the device. Whilst the from was very constrictive, prototyping allowed for the visualisation
If you’re still eager to learn more, follow the links below for a full breakdown of the design process. Additionally, feel free to reach out to me if you have more detailed questions about the concept.
With a passion for problem solving, Kristan is a designer eager to tackle the prevalent challenges of our generation. She aspires to shine a light on niche issues and thrives on optimising the relationship between user and product. Kristan excels in systems thinking and visual communication, yet is always keen to expand her skillset.