Design & Performance
Design & Performance
Using the KangaMove | Individual Components | Design Iteration and Performance | Device Feedback | Project Management
Embedded Files
Using the KangaMove
Using the KangaMove
The video below provides a brief demonstration of how nurses and respiratory therapists can integrate the KangaMove to enhance the safety of Kangaroo Care in the NICU.
Individual Components
Individual Components
The KangaMove is comprised of four main components and mounts to a standard Bunnell Jet Ventilator stand, optimizing space in the NICU.
Ventilator Clamp
Ventilator Clamp
Attaches to the Bunnell Jet Ventilator stand and secures with four M5 Phillips head screws. Features a pivot joint that connects to the linear slider (see next section). An adjustment knob allows users to control pivot joint rotation, either dampening movement or locking it completely.
Linear Slider
Linear Slider
An aluminum extrusion that enables the arm to linearly extend up to 9 inches. A rear slot allows the user to control movement by dampening or locking the linear motion with a twisting knob.
Locking Joint
Locking Joint
Features a pair of interlocking gears that engage or disengage to lock or unlock rotation. The upper knob allows the user to pull the blue gear, enabling free arm movement, while built-in springs ensure the gears remain locked when needed.
Payload Hub / Accessory Plate
Payload Hub / Accessory Plate
Secures Bunnell Jet Ventilator auxiliary box using three adjustable feet and a Velcro strap (not pictured). The upper shelf includes custom mounts for ventilator tubes, IV tubes, and other cables. A parallel linkage design keeps the plate level at all times, while an additional knob allows users to dampen or lock its pivoting function. Rubber pads minimize vibrations, and all aluminum components are coated with a specialized primer for protection against moisture and sanitizing chemicals.
Design Iterations & Performance
Design Iterations & Performance
Throughout its design process, the KangaMove has been tested by nurses and respiratory therapists in the NICU at Jacobs Medical Center in San Diego. Based on their feedback, the student design team has refined the device to better support skin-to-skin contact for preterm infants.
See Photo and Video Page for images of the constructed prototypes. The device has gone through five iterations, each one tested and critiqued by nurses and respiratory therapists.
Iteration I
Iteration I
Two pairs of linkages
Fallbacks
Too large, too heavy
Center pivot joint between linkage pairs had potential of inverting
Too many joints to lock and unlock manually
Didn't like the infant transfer bed idea
Iteration II
Iteration II
Single pair of linkages and a linear slider
Fallbacks
Unstable
Too much extension of linear slider
unreliable locking joint design
pivot points were too fluid, arm moved erratically
Final Design
Final Design
Improved version of Iteration II
Final Improvements
Locking pins at all pivot points
Single slider design
Ventilator tube mounts
Streamlined manufacturing
Device Feedback
Device Feedback
Feedback was provided by nurses and respertory therapists at the Jacob's Medical Center in San Diego
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