• Login
    • Join
  • FOLLOW:
  • Subscribe Free
    • Magazine
    • eNewsletter
    Checkout
    • Magazine
    • News
    • Opinions
    • Top 30
    • Research
    • Supply Chain
    • Device Sectors
    • Directory
    • Events
    • Resources
    • Microsites
    • More
  • Magazine
  • News
  • Opinions
  • Top 30
  • Research
  • Supply Chain
  • Device Sectors
  • Directory
  • Events
  • Resources
  • Microsites
  • Current / Back Issues
    Features
    Editorial
    Digital Edition
    eNewsletter Archive
    Our Team
    Editorial Guidelines
    Reprints
    Subscribe Now
    Advertise Now
    Top Features
    Cybersecurity Challenges Leave Medical Device Makers Insecure

    OEMs Are Demanding Designs that Challenge Suppliers

    Diabetes Technology Manufacturers Seemingly on a Sugar Rush

    Post-Pandemic Partnerships: A Full-Service Outsourcing Discussion

    Discovering the Value of Surface Treatments and Coatings for Medtech
    OEM News
    Supplier News
    Service / Press Releases
    Online Exclusives
    Press Releases
    People in the News
    Product & Service Releases
    Supplier News
    Medtech Makers
    Technical Features
    International News
    Videos
    Product & Service Releases
    Live From Shows
    Regulatory
    Financial/Business
    Top News
    Medtronic, DaVita to Create New Kidney Care Firm

    OmniGuide's RevoLix HTL Hybrid Thulium Laser OK'ed for BPH and Stone Treatments

    In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation Takes Effect

    Brian Case Appointed Chief Technology Officer at KORU Medical

    Solid Growth Expected for India's Medical Device Sector
    From the Editor
    Blogs
    Guest Opinions
    Top Opinions
    Cybersecurity Challenges Leave Medical Device Makers Insecure

    OEMs Are Demanding Designs that Challenge Suppliers

    Diabetes Technology Manufacturers Seemingly on a Sugar Rush

    Post-Pandemic Partnerships: A Full-Service Outsourcing Discussion

    Discovering the Value of Surface Treatments and Coatings for Medtech
    Top 30 Medical Device Companies
    Market Data
    White Papers
    Top Research
    Injecting Neurostimulators into Blood Vessels (We Swear, It’s Not Sci-Fi)

    Understanding the Costs of Care in the OR

    Sick of Being Sick: Pandemic Fatigue Flares at AAOS

    Managing Critical Healthcare Supply Chains in Turbulent Times

    To Drive Value, Human Capital Leaders Turn to Outsourced Solutions
    3D/Additive Manufacturing
    Contract Manufacturing
    Electronics
    Machining & Laser Processing
    Materials
    Molding
    Packaging & Sterilization
    R&D & Design
    Software & IT
    Testing
    Tubing & Extrusion
    Cardiovascular
    Diagnostics
    Digital Health
    Neurological
    Patient Monitoring
    Surgical
    Orthopedics
    All Companies
    Categories
    Company Capabilities
    Add New Company
    Outsourcing Directory
    Concise Engineering

    BMP Medical

    Arthur G. Russell Co. Inc., The

    Trademark Plastics Inc.

    Cirtec Medical
    MPO Summit
    Industry Events
    Webinars
    Live From Show Event
    Industry Associations
    Videos
    Career Central
    eBook
    Slideshows
    Top Resources
    3D Printing in Dental Prosthodontics, Orthodontics, and Surgery

    What New Tech Can Improve Your Medical Manufacturing Plant?

    Why Medical Device Firms Must Navigate the Muddy Waters of ESG Requirements

    Medical Device Servicing vs. Remanufacturing

    Digital Marketplaces for Medical Equipment Come of Age
    Companies
    News Releases
    Product Releases
    Press Releases
    Product Spec Sheets
    Service Releases
    Case Studies
    White Papers
    Brochures
    Videos
    Outsourcing Directory
    Concise Engineering

    BMP Medical

    Arthur G. Russell Co. Inc., The

    Trademark Plastics Inc.

    Cirtec Medical
    • Magazine
      • Current/Back Issues
      • Features
      • Editorial
      • Columns
      • Digital Editions
      • Subscribe Now
      • Advertise Now
    • News
    • Directory
      • All Companies
      • ALL CATEGORIES
      • Industry Associations
      • Company Capabilities
      • Add Your Company
    • Supply Chain
      • 3D/Additive Manufacturing
      • Contract Manufacturing
      • Electronics
      • Machining & Laser Processing
      • Materials
      • Molding
      • Packaging & Sterilization
      • R&D & Design
      • Software & IT
      • Testing
      • Tubing & Extrusion
    • Device Sectors
      • Cardiovascular
      • Diagnostics
      • Digital Health
      • Neurological
      • Patient Monitoring
      • Surgical
      • Orthopedics
    • Top 30 Company Report
    • Expert Insights
    • Slideshows
    • Videos
    • eBook
    • Resources
    • Podcasts
    • Infographics
    • Whitepapers
    • Research
      • White Papers
      • Case Studies
      • Product Spec Sheets
      • Market Data
    • MPO Summit
    • Events
      • Industry Events
      • Live From Show Events
      • Webinars
    • Microsite
      • Companies
      • Product Releases
      • Product Spec Sheets
      • Services
      • White Papers / Tech Papers
      • Press Releases
      • Videos
      • Literature / Brochures
      • Case Studies
    • About Us
      • About Us
      • Contact Us
      • Advertise with Us
      • eNewsletter Archive
      • Privacy Policy
      • Terms of Use
    Online Exclusives

    6 Questions To Ask When Developing a Wearable Medical Device

    How to design around skin—the unique substrate your device will adhere to.

    6 Questions To Ask When Developing a Wearable Medical Device
    Each unique feature of skin has the potential to influence your device’s design.
    Related CONTENT
    • BMP Medical - Delivering Custom Plastics Manufactured Solutions
    • Accu-Tube Appoints Matthew Haddle as CEO
    • Heraeus Acquires Mo-Sci Corporation, ETS Technology Holdings
    • MedTech Innovator Names the Finalists for the Title of MedTech Innovator 2021
    • CareDx Appoints Hannah Valantine to its Board
    Del R. Lawson, Ph.D., and Kris Godbey05.28.20
    No medical device designer wants to find themselves responsible for missing or remembering a key consideration too late in the development process – especially when designing a wearable device. Stick-to-skin devices that overlook the human factors could face manufacturing issues, device failures or even cause harm to the wearer, impacting a project’s timeline and budget. Unlike a metal or plastic, skin is a complex organ with many distinct features – from sweating or growing hair to completely regenerating itself every two weeks or so. Each feature has the potential to influence your device’s design. The nature of skin takes careful analysis during design.
     
    Use the following questions as a checklist to thoughtfully consider the unique substrate your device will adhere to.
     
    1. Has the Device Objective Been Thoroughly Evaluated?
    Before starting to design the device, it’s important to take the time to understand who the user is and what they need the device to do every day. That will help you determine the level of intricacy and detail required to develop an effective design.
     
    Consider this example: Patients with diabetes rely on their glucose monitors to track the level of sugar in their blood. Their health and independence depend on the device doing its job effectively. Because managing a chronic disease heightens the stakes involved compared to other wearables, such as fitness watches, the level of intricacy and detail that goes into the device’s development is also heightened.
     
    While thoroughly vetting the design objective, keep in mind how you can satisfy the user’s needs without overdesigning the device. Overdesigning in hopes of optimizing performance can create more complications than it can solve. For example, overdesigning when it comes to material selection can lead to using too strong of an adhesive for the intended application. If your device only needs to be worn for five days, but an adhesive with a two-week wear time is used, the implications could cause harm to the user. Bring all design decisions back to the device’s objective.
     
    2. What Important Wearer Characteristics Are at Play?
    Skin is unique to each person, and remembering it is a living, breathing organ that constantly regenerates itself makes it unlike any other substrate. Other important wearer characteristics at play are age, ethnicity, diet, culture and environmental factors. These on top of the skin’s characteristics impact the success of your device design in any given scenario. If the intended wearer is a teenager, expect your device to accommodate skin that produces more oil, whereas if the wearer is a baby or an elderly person, their skin will be more fragile.
     
    3. Where on the Body Will this Device Be Worn?
    Not only does skin vary from person to person, but it also varies depending on where the device will be worn on the body. There are locations where skin is thicker, hairier and/or oilier, changing the level of sensitivity. Your device design and material selection need to consider where it will be worn and what characteristics this region of the body presents.
     
    When it comes to adhesive selection, consider silicone adhesives for thin or fragile skin, such as on a baby’s face. Comparatively, if the device must stay in place for a longer period of time, an acrylic solution may be better to offer stronger adhesive strength. Bringing your materials supplier into this conversation early on can help in finding the best options.
     
    4. How Long is the Intended Wear Time of this Device?
    To fulfill its purpose, a device needs to stay together and adhered to the skin for its entire intended duration without causing harm to the wearer. Selecting the right materials for the device and its stick-to-skin component helps ensure the skin can breathe and flex as needed while the device is in place. The intended wear time will help you determine the ideal combination.
     
    When asking yourself this question, keep in mind that the longer a wearable device is on the body, the more skin’s characteristics come into play. If a device needs to stick to the user for multiple days, generally a smaller, lighter device sticks better than a larger one. When the wearer wants to partake in high intensity activities, an aggressive adhesive might be called for. Vetting what wear time studies your materials supplier has conducted can assist in understanding how adhesives are expected to perform in real-life applications.
     
    5. Can Your Materials Withstand Manufacturing?
    Manufacturing process and material selection compatibility are important to consider up-front to avoid materials that cannot withstand the stress of your chosen manufacturing process. The consequences of not asking this question early on can include potential redesigns, delays and additional costs.
     
    Engaging an adhesive expert who has experience designing, testing and researching adhesive technology can speed up the process. They should also be able to offer support and advice on which adhesives are able to withstand your manufacturing process and also work well with the skin.
     
    The best way, and what should be done in every case, to ensure the device is acceptable quality and can withstand under the operation conditions is to test the process before putting it into full-scale production.
     
    6. Have You Considered All of the Human Variables at Play?
    Before designing your wearable medical device, be sure you’ve considered all of the potential human factors of the application. While your efforts should be exhaustive, don’t let them be exhausting – engage your materials supplier earlier in the process to ease your efforts. Having the right people involved can set your project up for success and minimize risks. Additionally, taking advantage of product selector tools during the design phases, such as 3M’s FindMyAdhesive.com, can also help ensure you select the best materials for your application.
     
    Del R. Lawson, Ph.D., is an R&D manager in 3M’s Medical Solutions Division.
    Kris Godbey is an applications engineering & technical support specialist in 3M’s Medical Materials & Technologies.
    Related Searches
    • R&D & Design
    Related Knowledge Center
    • R&D & Design
    Suggested For You
    BMP Medical - Delivering Custom Plastics Manufactured Solutions BMP Medical - Delivering Custom Plastics Manufactured Solutions
    Accu-Tube Appoints Matthew Haddle as CEO Accu-Tube Appoints Matthew Haddle as CEO
    Heraeus Acquires Mo-Sci Corporation, ETS Technology Holdings Heraeus Acquires Mo-Sci Corporation, ETS Technology Holdings
    MedTech Innovator Names the Finalists for the Title of MedTech Innovator 2021 MedTech Innovator Names the Finalists for the Title of MedTech Innovator 2021
    CareDx Appoints Hannah Valantine to its Board CareDx Appoints Hannah Valantine to its Board
    CE Mark Granted to Predictive Software for Kidney Allograft Survival CE Mark Granted to Predictive Software for Kidney Allograft Survival
    Babson Diagnostics Raises $31 Million in Series B Funding Babson Diagnostics Raises $31 Million in Series B Funding
    FDA Clears Inova Diagnostics FDA Clears Inova Diagnostics' Digital Multi-Analyte System
    PTI Engineered Plastics Wins a 2021 Macomb Business Award PTI Engineered Plastics Wins a 2021 Macomb Business Award
    Medical Devices Market to Top $671.49 Billion by 2027 Medical Devices Market to Top $671.49 Billion by 2027
    Minnesota Rubber and Plastics to Build New Innovation Center Minnesota Rubber and Plastics to Build New Innovation Center
    Indago Announces $10 Million Financing Close and Name Change Indago Announces $10 Million Financing Close and Name Change
    The Benefits of Computer Vision Technology for Healthcare Applications The Benefits of Computer Vision Technology for Healthcare Applications
    Masimo Launches Single-Patient-Use rainbow SuperSensor in Europe Masimo Launches Single-Patient-Use rainbow SuperSensor in Europe
    RapidPulse Closes $15 Million Series A Financing RapidPulse Closes $15 Million Series A Financing

    Related Content

    • BMP Medical - Delivering Custom Plastics Manufactured Solutions

      BMP Medical - Delivering Custom Plastics Manufactured Solutions

      Medical Contract Manufacturing, Design, Assembly & Packaging

    • Tubing & Extrusion
      Accu-Tube Appoints Matthew Haddle as CEO

      Accu-Tube Appoints Matthew Haddle as CEO

      Haddle has a track record of leading organizations through strategic expansions across the medical device, aerospace, and industrial sectors.
      Accu-Tube 09.22.21

    • Heraeus Acquires Mo-Sci Corporation, ETS Technology Holdings

      Heraeus Acquires Mo-Sci Corporation, ETS Technology Holdings

      The two deals will strengthen Heraeus' healthcare and medtech portfolio.
      Heraeus 09.22.21


    • MedTech Innovator Names the Finalists for the Title of MedTech Innovator 2021

      MedTech Innovator Names the Finalists for the Title of MedTech Innovator 2021

      Attendees of The MedTech Conference, powered by AdvaMed, will vote for the Grand Prize winner.
      MedTech Innovator 09.21.21

    • CareDx Appoints Hannah Valantine to its Board

      CareDx Appoints Hannah Valantine to its Board

      Valantine is a professor of Medicine at Stanford and the former National Institutes of Health chief scientific officer for Scientific Workforce Diversity.
      Globe Newswire 09.21.21


      Trending
      • Dexcom Reportedly In Talks To Acquire Insulet | Medical Product Outsourcing
      • Shrinking Medical Devices Create Sizable Challenges For Micromolders | Medical Product Outsourcing
      • 5 Ways Plastics Revolutionized The Healthcare Industry | Medical Product Outsourcing
      • Anumana's ECG Pulmonary Hypertension AI Algorithm Gains Breakthrough Status | Medical Product Outsourcing
      • Prometheus Group Sued Over Reused Catheters And Rectal Sensors | Medical Product Outsourcing
      Breaking News
      • Medtronic, DaVita to Create New Kidney Care Firm
      • OmniGuide's RevoLix HTL Hybrid Thulium Laser OK'ed for BPH and Stone Treatments
      • In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation Takes Effect
      • Brian Case Appointed Chief Technology Officer at KORU Medical
      • Solid Growth Expected for India's Medical Device Sector
      View Breaking News >
      CURRENT ISSUE

      May 2022

      • Cybersecurity Challenges Leave Medical Device Makers Insecure
      • Contract Design for Medtech
      • Diabetes Medical Device Technology Update
      • Medtech Full-Service Outsourcing Q&A 2022

      Cookies help us to provide you with an excellent service. By using our website, you declare yourself in agreement with our use of cookies.
      You can obtain detailed information about the use of cookies on our website by clicking on "More information”.

      • About Us
      • Privacy Policy
      • Terms And Conditions
      • Contact Us

      follow us

      Subscribe
      Nutraceuticals World

      Latest Breaking News From Nutraceuticals World

      Thorne Relaunches Gut Health Test with Microbiome Wipe
      Alkemist Labs Announces Alkemist Assured Seal and Next Generation Transparency Reports
      GC Rieber Foundations Expand Philanthropic Efforts
      Coatings World

      Latest Breaking News From Coatings World

      ICP Receives ASC Innovation Award for Spray Foam That Meets Changing Environmental Regulations
      Pylon Coatings Uses Polygiene Biomaster & Verimaster for Antimicrobial Surface Protection
      Sto Corp. Recognized with Multiple Honors at the EIFS Hero Awards
      Medical Product Outsourcing

      Latest Breaking News From Medical Product Outsourcing

      Medtronic, DaVita to Create New Kidney Care Firm
      OmniGuide's RevoLix HTL Hybrid Thulium Laser OK'ed for BPH and Stone Treatments
      In Vitro Diagnostic Medical Devices Regulation Takes Effect
      Contract Pharma

      Latest Breaking News From Contract Pharma

      DFE Pharma Opens India CoE for Fast-Track Formulation Services
      Helsinn Establishes New R&D Hub in the U.S.
      CureVac, myNEO Partner on Antigen Targets for mRNA-Cancer Vax Development
      Beauty Packaging

      Latest Breaking News From Beauty Packaging

      Carlyle To Acquire HCP Packaging
      Estée Lauder Companies Faces Class Action Lawsuit
      La Roche-Posay Launches Matte Moisturizer for Oily Skin
      Happi

      Latest Breaking News From Happi

      Gojo Creates New All-Weather Purell Dispenser Built for Outdoor High Traffic Locations
      Women in Flavor and Fragrance Present 2022 Recognition Awards Dinner June 16
      Univar Expands Distribution Agreement with ANGUS Chemical Company
      Ink World

      Latest Breaking News From Ink World

      NAPIM’s Virtual Digital & Emerging Technologies Conference is Back, June 14–15, 2022
      CEMATEX Introduces Online Business Platform to Connect Global Textile Community
      PICO Chemical Celebrates 46 Years
      Label & Narrow Web

      Latest Breaking News From Label & Narrow Web

      Teklynx software helps Top Clean Injection validate labels
      Zeller+Gmelin named Berry Global’s 2021 Ink Supplier of the Year
      Videojet and Loftware partner to accelerate labeling automation
      Nonwovens Industry

      Latest Breaking News From Nonwovens Industry

      Rael Raises $35M in Series B Funding
      Schobertechnologies Offers Rotary Web-fed Converting Solutions
      Thorne Relaunches Gut Health Test with Microbiome Wipe
      Orthopedic Design & Technology

      Latest Breaking News From Orthopedic Design & Technology

      ManaMed's ManaSport Wearable Ultrasound Earns FDA Nod
      Ekso Bionics Names Jerome Wong as Interim CFO
      Exactech Completes First Surgeries Using Next-Gen Cage Glenoid
      Printed Electronics Now

      Latest Breaking News From Printed Electronics Now

      ams OSRAM Introduces New Horticulture LEDs
      Avery Dennison Launches AD Twist U7XM Inlays
      ARPA-E Funding Drives Innovation, Industry Partnerships at NREL

      Copyright © 2022 Rodman Media. All rights reserved. Use of this constitutes acceptance of our privacy policy The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Rodman Media.

      AD BLOCKER DETECTED

      Our website is made possible by displaying online advertisements to our visitors.
      Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker.


      FREE SUBSCRIPTION Already a subscriber? Login