Integrating medical technology into existing product range
Our client, a recognised leader in the smoking cessation industry, has built a strong reputation for developing effective products aimed at improving lung health. In their pursuit of expanding their product line, they approached Winter and Smith with a need for a device that could monitor respiratory pressure, crucial for understanding lung function during their smoking cessation programs.
The primary challenge presented was to design a respiratory pressure measurement device that would fit seamlessly into one of their existing product enclosures. This meant maintaining the client’s established branding while also ensuring the new device could accurately measure inhalation and exhalation pressure under the supervision of a trained clinician.
What the project involved:
- Design of bespoke medical electronics
- Electronics design of medical PCB
- PCB Assembly
- Embedded software for medical devices
- Bespoke PC App for medical Application
- Multi Language Interface software
- EMC/CE testing of medical device
- Electronics Production of 700 devices to date
The design process
Product integration
Seamless Fit with Existing Enclosure
Our first task was to design a device that would fit perfectly into an existing enclosure used by the client for another product. The integration of this new respiratory pressure monitoring system into the pre-existing casing required precision engineering to avoid compromising functionality or appearance while enhancing the product’s clinical applications.
Electronic design
Advanced Gas Pressure Sensor for Accurate Data
At the heart of the respiratory pressure measurement device is a medically approved gas pressure sensor capable of measuring air pressure during both exhalation and inhalation. This sensor captures data every few milliseconds to ensure the results are accurate, which is vital for proper diagnosis and treatment. Our team meticulously designed the electronics to support this high-frequency data capture and processing.
Graphical LCD display
Real-Time Patient Data Monitoring
A critical component of the design was the graphical LCD display, which allows clinicians to view respiratory data in real-time. The display was developed to show not only the measured air pressure but also processed calculations of key lung health metrics. This user-friendly interface enables quick, informed decision-making during clinical assessments.
Data processing & calculations
Providing Medically Relevant Insights
After capturing pressure data, the system processes it to calculate a number of medically approved values that provide insight into the health of the patient’s lung muscles. These results are displayed on the screen for easy interpretation by the clinician, assisting with diagnoses and treatment plans. The precision of these calculations was paramount to ensure the device met medical standards.
Software development
Enabling Clinician Control
Developing the software for this device was a crucial phase of the project. The software ensures that the device functions as intended during clinical tests, controls measurement settings, and processes the raw data into usable metrics. The software was also designed with a seamless user experience in mind, making it easy for clinicians to manage and interpret patient data.
Achieving medical approval
Rigorous Testing & Compliance
Given the medical application of this device, it was essential to meet all regulatory and safety standards. We worked closely with our client to ensure that the device passed rigorous medical approval processes. This certification confirmed that the device met all necessary health and safety requirements for use in clinical environments.
PC application
Comprehensive Test Result Analysis
The final step in the project was to develop a PC application that allows clinicians to download the test results from the respiratory pressure device. The software generates detailed PDF reports of the test data, comparing it to ideal benchmarks based on patient demographics such as age and gender. This provides clinicians with a clear, comprehensive view of the patient’s respiratory health and aids in tracking progress over time.
A revolutionary device for respiratory health
Winter and Smith’s design and development process led to the creation of a state-of-the-art respiratory pressure measurement device that not only fits seamlessly into the client’s existing product range but also provides valuable, real-time insights into lung health. By integrating high-quality electronics, precise data processing, and user-friendly software, we have helped our client expand their product offerings and contribute to better smoking cessation outcomes.
At Winter & Smith, we specialise in designing medical solutions that help businesses improve efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline operations.
