Reimagining NASA’s medical kit for a better healthcare experience
Medspace reimagines medication use in space, tackling challenges of microgravity and gaining insights from a NASA expert. Winning 'Most Disruptive Product' award at Brunel University.
Background
Current man-missions to space are within Low Earth Orbit (LEO), such as to the International Space Station (ISS). A medical kit aboard the ISS is used to manage general health & emergencies. This project focuses on how might we improve the kit usage for longer missions.
Research
The current pain points within the user journey were identified within the medical kit aboard the ISS. Primary and secondary researching including an interview with Dr Virginia Wotring, who worked with the first NASA pharmacist.
PAIN POINT: O1
PAIN POINT: O2
PAIN POINT: O3
Opening a bag in microgravity risks spilling of medication.
PAIN POINT : O4
PAIN POINT : O5
'How Might We…?' Statement.
How might we prepare and protect medicine from the environmental conditions in space whilst maintaining a seamless user experience for astronauts?
Development
Three areas were discovered to be important to include in the development of the design. This key features include microgravity accessibility, medication organization and radiation protection.
3D printed models of concepts was key to investigate their feasibility and better evaluate the viability of concepts. Testing prototypes helped understand how a user would handle a product, and how the medicine can be dispensed into someones hand.
3D Printed Model & Storyboards
Storyboards of both devices demonstrate how each would be loaded up and used.
Final 3D Renders
What could be next for this project?
Adjusting the devices for private space flights with the upcoming commercialization of space.
Full app prototype which allows users to order their personalized medication reels for their "flight".
