College of Engineering Poster Presentations
Title
Attachment for the Improvement of Metered-Dose Inhaler Usage
Document Type
Student Presentation
Presentation Date
4-16-2012
Faculty Sponsor
Michelle Sabick
Abstract
Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) are medical devices used to deliver medication for a wide range of ailments including, but not limited to, Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD patients are known to be in a weakened state and some experience difficulties while delivering the medication. The main objective of this project is to create a simple, attachable device to make MDIs easier to use. The inhaler attachment team has developed a cost-effective, compact device that fits a wide range of MDI dimensions. The device provides a mechanical advantage of greater than 2 that will make it easier to compress the aerosol canister. Specific device geometries were optimized to provide the highest mechanical advantage possible. The baseline data was obtained from anthropometric studies of healthy and diseased people of various ages. Several prototypes have been developed and are currently being tested to ensure customer satisfaction and functionality. Upon final customer approval, the team will begin design for manufacturing and patent writing.