Brief


At the outset of this project, the aim was to improve children's health. Whilst investigating how children's medication is managed at school, we uncovered a surprisingly alarming issue;

Situation
o In 2011-12, 10.2% of Australians (or around 2.3 million people) had asthma - (Abs.gov.au, 2013)
o In 2011, asthma caused the deaths of 378 Australians - (Abs.gov.au, 2013)
o “The majority of children with asthma in Australia have infrequent intermittent asthma, which means they have occasional ‘episodes’ of asthma symptoms lasting a short period of time, and only take medication when they have symptoms rather than every day” –  (Asthmaaustralia.org.au, 2007)
Up to 90% of people who have asthma inhalers do not use them correctly -  (Asthmaaustralia.org.au, 2007)
o There is a higher rate of hospitalisation for asthma in children than adults, and the highest rate is in boys aged 0–4 years - (Asthmaaustralia.org.au, 2007)
o $655 million was spent on Asthma in 2008-09 - (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2013)

o There is reportedly a direct correlation between socioeconomic status and the prevalence of Asthma

Problem
Up to 90% of inhaler users are using them incorrectly. This could be due to:
o Lack of education in proper technique
o Confusing or inconvenient design

o Developing bad habits 

Some common misuses include: 
o Spraying directly into tongue, mouth
o Not holding breath long enough for lungs to absorb vapour
o Administering too much within quick succession – The compound takes approx. 1 minute to settle in the lungs
o Holding inhaler incorrectly
o Not tilting head backward
o Not breathing deeply enough

o Not shaking the canister (for MDI)

Objective
Design a product that promotes the correct usage of Metered Dose (MDI) or Dry Powder Inhalers (DPI)

This will be realised through the development of several concepts, form studies, test rigs, CAD models and working prototypes, each undergoing extensive evaluation.

Target User
The intended user of the product will be children, upwards of 5 years of age. As they gain more independence and responsibilities through the start of their schooling and organised sports, it is crucial that they can correctly manage their own health when required. Their parents/guardians will also be considered, as they will ultimately be responsible for how their child's asthma is treated. They will typically be between 25 and 40 years of age, with school-aged children.

Schedule
Phase 1 – Research and Conceptualization (9/8/13 – 3/9/13)
Phase 2 – Development (6/9/13 – 15/10/13)
Phase 3 – Preparation for Launch (18/10/13 – 15/11/13)