Rayspire
Inhaler & Spacer
Updated design for commonly used medical devices; the spacer and inhaler. Research in travel of aerosol, ergonomics and materials guided this design. Final product design was created using Solidworks while the prototype was fabricated using 3D printing technology.
Spacer
“(also sometimes called a holding chamber) is a device that makes using an inhaler easier and more effective. It attaches to the inhaler on one end and to a mouthpiece or mask on the other end.”
Inhaler
“a portable device for administering a drug that is to be breathed in, used for relieving asthma and other bronchial or nasal congestion.”
Vapor Study
What is a Spacer?
A spacer puts time and space between the mouth of the patient and the inhaler. In doing so, medicine particles are able to slow down and break into smaller particles so that they can reach deeper into the lungs.
This vapor study was performed on three spacers and various shaped conatainers. This demonstrates a visual representation of the medicine from the inhaler moving through a chamber.
Aero Chamber®
Pocket Chamber®
OptiHaler®
Vapor follows curves making less turbulence
Vapor appeared to slow down over curves at top or bottom of the container
Large chamber with a choke point creates a buildup of vapor in the larger section
Basic cylindrical shape allows vapor to travel straight to the back of the container
Vapor plume took longer to lose velocity in the cylindrical shape
Bulbous expansion chamber creates more eddies within the chamber right away
Controlling vapor reduces eddies and could reduce the amount of random particle deposition within the spacer
Solidworks Models
3D Printing on Ultimaker 2+
3D Printed End Pieces
Primed 3D Printed Parts
Final 3D Printed Prototype
3D Printing on Ultimaker 2+
3D Print Complete
Primed 3D Printed Pieces
Final 3D Printed Prototype
Final Renders
The Rayspire inhaler and spacer are designed to enhance the user’s experience while treating their respiratory disorder. The spacer was designed to be more efficient with a stingray inspired shape. The inhaler was designed to be a more modern approach to reduce the feeling of drawing attention in public. Together, these products are paving the way for future respiratory medical devices.
