Observation:
On a bright sunny morning, I was heading down to the dining haul. As a type one diabetic , i always need to keep my insulin on me in ordered for me take an injection prior each meal. After calorie counting and taking the right amount of insulin injection, i enjoyed my meal and went to attend my classes. The walk to my class was pretty long but i always enjoyed the nature around campus. Mid way through the class and while I’m note taking the lecture, I suddenly start getting headaches and blurred vision. I pull my phone out to check for my sugar level on the app and i was surprised to see my sugar exceeded the normal range.Thus, I observed that having my insulin exposed to a regular sunny day ruins its effectiveness. Insulin injections must be maintained between 2 °C and 8°C to remain effective. Exposure to temperatures outside this range could make it useless.
Solution Idea:
Portable Insulin Coolers
1. Concept Development
- Objective: Create a portable insulin cooler that is sustainable, efficient, and user-friendly.
- Target Audience: People with diabetes who need to carry insulin on the go.
- Sustainability Focus: Use eco-friendly materials and renewable energy sources to reduce environmental impact.
2. Design and Features
- Compact and Lightweight: Ensure the cooler is easy to carry and fits in a backpack or handbag.
- Temperature Control: Maintain insulin at 2°C to 8°C with precise digital controls.
- Power Sources:
- Solar Panels: Integrate small solar panels to harness renewable energy.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Use long-lasting, eco-friendly batteries.
- Multiple Charging Options: Include USB ports, car adapters, and wall plugs.
- Materials:
- Insulation: Use sustainable, high-efficiency insulation materials.
- Exterior: Opt for recycled or biodegradable plastics.
- User Interface: Digital display showing temperature, battery life, and alarms for temperature deviations.
Benefits:
- Temperature Control: Ensures insulin is kept within the recommended range (2°C to 8°C), preserving its potency and effectiveness.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a backpack, handbag, or luggage, ideal for travel and daily use.
- Sustainability:
- Solar Panels: Harness renewable energy, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and promoting eco-friendliness.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Use of recycled or biodegradable plastics and high-efficiency insulation materials minimizes environmental impact.
- Multiple Power Sources: Versatility in charging options (solar panels, USB ports, car adapters, wall plugs) ensures the cooler can be powered in various situations.
- User-Friendly Design: Digital display for temperature and battery status, easy-to-use temperature control buttons, and alarm system for temperature deviations provide a convenient and reliable user experience.
- Health Benefits:
- Prevents Insulin Degradation: Protects insulin from becoming ineffective due to exposure to extreme temperatures.
- Reduces Risk of Health Complications: Helps maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing complications like hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis.
- Cost Savings:
- Prevents Waste: Reduces the need to discard insulin that has been exposed to inappropriate temperatures.
- Minimizes Healthcare Costs: Helps avoid additional medical expenses related to poor diabetes management.
- Improved Quality of Life:
- Peace of Mind: Users can confidently travel and engage in various activities without worrying about their insulin's safety.
- Increased Independence: Allows individuals with diabetes to manage their condition more effectively on their own.