The BabyBox
ABOUT
Neonatal isolettes are a commonly used medical device that senses and controls an infant’s needs, to regulate their immediate environment. Hypothermia in premature neonates is more common because children that are born prematurely lack sufficient time in the womb to develop the necessary body fat and skin integrity vital to regulate their own body temperature. A typical isolette provides a stable environment capable of adapting to an infant’s individual needs in order to foster growth and development.
the problem
In underdeveloped areas, half of low weight or preterm infants born prior to 32 weeks gestation will not survive due to lack of proper care – like access to an isolette. Unfortunately, infant isolettes are unavailable to much of the world due to high cost, inadequate access to electricity, and the common need for repairs.
OUR SOLUTION
In order to be successful, the low cost isolette will need to meet several performance requirements.
Maintain an air temperature between 22°C and 25.5°C.
Ensure the visibility of the infant from at least 2 sides of the device to reduce the risk of neonatal jaundice and other complications.
Another requirement of this device is that the clinicians have easy access and contact with the child to accomplish everyday tasks such as drawing blood, changing diapers, running tests, and cleaning the infant.
Figure 1: The temperature curve for the isolette in the Heating Up and Cooling Down Test.
Figure 2: Isolette temperature curve with ports open for Heat Retention Test.
Final Prototype
Opening Hole for Easy Access
