WEARABLE MEDICAL DEVICES: Designing for Constant use
Wearable devices have ushered in a new era of healthcare innovation, promising greater convenience, efficiency, and patient engagement. However, behind the sleek façade of these devices lies a myriad of challenges, particularly in the design process. Wearable medical devices, in particular, demand careful consideration due to their constant proximity to the user, necessitating a seamless blend of functionality, aesthetics, and comfort.
Unlike traditional medical devices that are often used intermittently, wearable medical devices are integrated into the fabric of users' daily lives. Whether it's monitoring vital signs, delivering medication, or providing real-time health feedback, these devices demand constant user interaction. This continuous engagement poses a unique challenge, requiring a deep understanding of human physiology and behavior so that designers can create devices that are intuitive to use, comfortable to wear, and unobtrusive in everyday activities.
In the realm of wearable medical devices, ergonomics takes center stage. Designers must meticulously craft devices that not only consider the diverse body morphology between different users but also don't impede the natural range of motion required by daily life. Below are a few areas that can negatively affect the final user experience if not integrated properly.
Ergonomic Factors to Consider
Body Morphology: Human bodies come in diverse shapes and sizes. Designers must account for these variations, ensuring the wearable device fits comfortably on every user, regardless of their body type.
Material Selection: The choice of material is crucial. While medical-grade plastics are an obvious choice as they are specifically engineered and manufactured for medical use, selecting the perfect one requires specific attention. Wearable devices must be skin-friendly, lightweight, and breathable to minimize irritation and allow for prolonged use without discomfort. Finding the ideal durometer, texture, and adhesive can also impact the final user experience. Adhesive requirements vary greatly depending on the use case and as a result, there is no go-to solution. It must be strong enough to stay on the body while also being delicate on the user's skin. Designers often work with specialists to find the perfect balance.
User Interface: Whether using a touchscreen to monitor the device’s performance or buttons to immediately interact with the product’s features, the interface of the device should be intuitive and accessible. Depending on the medical device's purpose and position this may require additional considerations for users with limited dexterity or various clothing types that could restrict access to important touchpoints. Reusable devices provide additional steps in the workflow as users may have to charge, clean, or return the device, creating a whole other list of potential touchpoints.
Long-Term Wear: Wearable medical devices are often used for extended periods. Therefore, factors like heat dissipation, moisture resistance, and durability are paramount in ensuring the device's longevity and user satisfaction. Even mundane activities such as sleeping and showering can create unique scenarios that could damage the device if not planned for. Prolonged wear will also require a reapplication step for devices using adhesive to stay on the body. This step must be intuitive, especially for devices that require precise placement to function properly.
Aesthetics: While functionality is key, the aesthetic appeal of wearable medical devices should not be underestimated. Aesthetically pleasing designs can enhance user acceptance, reduce stigma, and encourage long-term usage. For example, spectacles/ glasses used to be considered embarrassing by their users until they were eventually transformed into “eyewear”. Now they have become a fashion accessory that users and non-prescribed users alike are excited to incorporate into their wardrobes.
The Future of Wearable Medical Devices
As technology continues to advance, the challenges of designing wearable medical devices will evolve. Innovations such as flexible electronics, advanced sensors, and artificial intelligence will provide new opportunities and challenges for designers. However, one constant will remain: the paramount importance of ergonomics. By prioritizing the user experience, designers can create wearable medical devices that not only monitor health but also enhance the overall quality of life for users, marking a significant stride toward a healthier and more connected future.