PULMO
wearable lung monitor
futures thinking
literature review
UX/UI
system design
IoT
a group project to develop a solution to a problem that will exist in 2042
the context
As part of a Design Engineering Futures module, our team addressed future urban health challenges by developing Pulmo—a wearable patch designed for early detection of respiratory issues. Positioned below the chest, Pulmo integrates acoustic, resistive, EKG, and PPG MEMS sensors to monitor lung health. Utilizing federated learning algorithms, it analyses data and presents findings via the Pulmo app, offering preliminary diagnoses for medical consultation when anomalies are detected.
futures thinking
I developed a STEEPV wheel to systematically analyse and predict future trends across Social, Technological, Economic, Environmental, Political, and Values dimensions. This tool facilitated a comprehensive exploration of potential impacts and interconnections, informing strategic decisions and innovative design solutions.
tech development
Technological development of the patch can be categorised into 4 groups: MEMS, materials, wearable technology and machine learning. 4 types of MEMS sensors were used to collect data: acoustic, resistive, EKG and PPG. These would all monitor different aspects of lung health.
UX/UI design
The Pulmo app is designed to give the user a holistic overview of their lung health, giving them actionable insights so that that they can take control. We prioritised providing actionable insights that users can easily comprehend. As well as this, we designed a doctor’s view of the app, so that they can quickly and easily attend to their patients.
IoT
As home IOT systems become more common, Pulmo will integrate fully with other smart devices in the home. By connecting with other devices linked to air quality, the air that the user breathes in will be optimised, improving the user's lung health, and subsequently, quality of life.