Hydromask

What it does

Hydromask is a user-centred device that revolutionises emergency eye irrigation. Ergonomic, scalable, and clinically efficient, it improves on existing systems to deliver fast, clean, and more effective treatment after chemical or trauma-related eye injuries.

Your inspiration

I became a Product Design Engineer to solve real-world problems through practical, human-centred design. When selecting my final year project, discussions with my sister, a nurse, highlighted a clear gap in emergency eye care: the lack of an effective, user-friendly irrigation system. Her insights led me to explore the shortcomings of existing devices and identify an opportunity for improvement. This formed the basis for Hydromask, a device grounded in clinical need, developed with real user feedback, and designed to meet the practical demands of emergency healthcare environments.

How it works

Hydromask is a soft, form-fitting mask designed to gently irrigate the eyes in emergency situations. It fits over the patient’s face and is secured with an elastic and Velcro strap. IV saline lines are connected to adjustable inlet ports that direct a controlled flow of fluid over one or both eyes. The fluid first pools at the bridge of the nose, then flows across the eye surface, helping flush out chemicals or debris. Built-in drainage ports on each side connect to standard suction tubing, carrying waste fluid away into a collection bag. This keeps the patient clean and dry while allowing the clinician to monitor the eyes throughout the process. The device is compatible with common hospital supplies and requires minimal setup, making it ideal for fast deployment in emergency rooms and for paramedics. Hydromask delivers consistent, hands-free irrigation in a way that is effective and more user friendly than current solutions.

Design process

Hydromask began when my sister, Jessica Wallis, an E.D., I.C.U, and remote indigenous health nurse raised concerns about the lack of effective eye irrigation systems in clinical settings. This led to research into global eye injury rates and a review of existing devices like the Morgan Lens. Initial findings revealed widespread issues with discomfort, usability, and patient cooperation. The first concept mimicked the nasal cannula method using low-fidelity prototypes. Over several major development stages, the design evolved through ongoing feedback from Jessica. Each prototype improved fit, comfort, and fluid control. Key changes included soft, skin-safe materials, repositioned inlet and drainage ports, adjustable straps, and an ergonomic nose bridge for a stable seal. The form was refined using CAD models based on head scan data, followed by 3D printed silicone molds for testing to optimise fluid flow and fit. Feedback from clinicians guided further refinements. Functional prototypes were tested using a peristaltic pump, and the current design is now optimised for manufacturability, clinical integration, and comfort.

How it is different

Hydromask is a first-of-its-kind ocular irrigation device designed to improve both clinical efficiency and patient care. Currently, the Morgan Lens is the only device used in emergency departments, but it is invasive, uncomfortable, and distressing, especially for children. Hydromask takes a different approach. It rests externally on the face, requires no direct contact with the eye, and allows clinicians to visually monitor the eyes throughout the procedure. Unlike improvised IV setups, it is quick to apply, keeps the patient dry, and does not need constant supervision. It uses standard hospital components and fits easily into existing workflows. The soft, ergonomic form suits a wide range of face shapes and includes adjustable inlets and drainage ports that guide fluid precisely over the eyes. Hydromask standardises a currently inconsistent process, offering a safer, more comfortable, and efficient solution when where seconds can make a critical difference.

Future plans

The next phase for Hydromask involves securing funding to support regulatory submission, clinical validation, and scaled manufacturing. I aim to complete a small production run this year to support usability testing and prepare a submission to the TGA. The initial go-to-market strategy focuses on Australian hospitals and emergency services, with plans to expand internationally once regulatory pathways are established. I am seeking grants, expert advisors, and strategic partners to support compliance, product refinement, and commercialisation to position Hydromask as a new standard in emergency eye care.

Awards

The Hydromask project won the Commercialisation Award at the end of year Swinburne University GradX exhibition. The award was given to the top Product Design Engineering Student who demonstated outstanding real-world application.