DESIGN NAME: k-haler
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Inhaler
INSPIRATION: Today 300 million people suffer from asthma, with 250,000 annual deaths attributed to it worldwide. The idea of breath actuated inhalers isn’t new, but many of these require a higher force and speed of inhalation for optimal drug delivery, which can be a challenge for patients with breathing conditions. The Critikal Study suggests that up to 4 out of 10 patients don’t inhale sufficiently hard and fast with their dry powder inhalers and this is associated with poor asthma control.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The k-haler device was designed to address many of the issues that have persisted since the invention of the first pressurised metered dose inhaler in 1956. It is breath activated, eliminating the need for patients to coordinate their breathing, but takes lower force to trigger it than most other breath actuated inhalers. The k-haler device's unique technology has the potential to be suitable for a range of inhaled products and forms a platform for future drug development by Mundipharma.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: The k-haler device is designed with patients and clinicians in mind, including the packaging, patient information leaflet, online training tools, integrated dose counter, labelling and material finishes. The colour enables easy identification, important for patients with multiple medications. The pack reveals information in a controlled order, and an interactive web training tool aids correct usage. Studies show that patients are able to use the device within 15 minutes, irrespective of age.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: The k-haler device was designed and developed by Mundipharma and key partners, at their Cambridge facility in the UK.
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: The k-haler device includes snap fits, top loaded counter mechanism, and automated label application. The main label creates the counter window and helps the device feel clean and simple, whilst also helping orientation. Labels are tamper evident, and allow the upgrade of colourways, regulatory information and branding. The k-haler device has a unique breath triggered valve, which when patients breathe in, automatically releases a dose. This removes the need for coordination during inhalation.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Width 31mm, depth 50mm, height 89mm. The ergonomic, compact k-haler device is discreet and easy to carry. It's a closed system, preventing dirt clogging the device and irritating airways. The counter mechanism displays individual doses from 120 to zero. It uses the Tiresias font, designed for clear legibility by the Scientific Research Unit of the RNIB. Coloured warnings provide 1 week’s notice allowing patients to plan ahead for refills. A full red bar indicates when the device is empty.
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RESEARCH ABSTRACT: The Critikal Study suggests that up to 4 out of 10 patients don’t inhale sufficiently hard and fast with their Dry Powder Inhalers. The Bell Study states that 99% of those tested with the k-haler device, were able to generate adequate inspiratory flow to trigger the inhaler at their first attempt. Multiple qualitative design research sessions were conducted across key European markets with patients and clinicians. These were used to improve device usage such as priming, handling and orientation.
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ADDED DATE: 2017-09-29 13:52:21
TEAM MEMBERS (1) : Clinical Designs Limited, a subsidiary of Mundipharma International Limited
IMAGE CREDITS: Mundipharma International Limited
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