AdrenaPod

What it does

Adrenapod is a reusable, compact, and intuitive alternative to traditional epinephrine autoinjectors on the market. Expired or expended parts can be replaced, reducing waste and long-term cost. The device is also designed to be more portable and intuitive.

Your inspiration

My inspiration came from my two brothers who both have allergies. For their own safety they are advised to carry an epinephrine autoinjector everywhere with them in case of an allergic reaction. This causes them great inconvenience due to the size of the devices. To double the issue they are recommended to carry two at all times. As a result they often do not bring the device with them, choosing the risk of an allergic reaction over the inconvenience of carrying the device. These issues along with the environmental impact made me think about how I could use my skills to resolve them, and make a product that is more portable and reusable.

How it works

The AdrenaPod allows the user to replace the parts that need to be replaced (the vial and needle), and reuse the rest of the device, saving on costs and reducing unnecessary waste. Additionally, the AdrenaPod is 30% smaller than popular designs on the market making it easier to carry. The device is also designed with the user experience at its core. By including indications and affordances of the correct use and direction, the AdrenaPod can be used by anyone easily and intuitively, reducing the chance of accidental misinjections. The mechanism inside uses a two part spring release, a larger spring pushes forward the whole needle and vial, and a smaller spring then extends inside the vial to push the plunger, injecting the Epinephrine from the needle. This reduces the length of the mechanism, saving space. The process for using the device can be seen in the video attached.

Design process

To start this project I began with primary and secondary research into existing devices, their problems, and common difficulties. I conducted an interview with someone who accidentally misinjected himself previously, along with interview with other allergic people, and an anonymous poll. With the initial research phase complete I began the prototype development stage. I started by exploring potential concepts, including wearable designs, tube injection systems and alternative needle injection mechanisms. I then started physically prototyping some of these ideas and testing them with users to receive feedback. Once I was sure of the form factor I created a range of models to find the right size, to balance the ergonomics and portability. I then used that as a base for the size I was aiming to fit the mechanism into. My development into the inner mechanics began there. I created a range of SLA prints, iterating on different ideas for the release and reload mechanism, testing with users along the way to ensure intuitive usage and comfortable ergonomics. I continued to refine the mechanism until I had a functional model.

How it is different

Existing Epinephrine autoinjectors are single use. While reusable generic autoinjectors exist, they are opperated electronically, resulting in a large form factor and significant cost. The AdrenaPod is fully mechanical, saving on space, weight and increasing reliability. It is also designed to reduce the amount of misinjections by playing into subconscious associations using familiar components of regular pens (such as the cap and clip) to indicate correct direction. The device is also 30% smaller than popular existing designs in part due to the use of the two part spring mechanism inside.

Future plans

The next steps to take this project to a commercial level are to refine the inner mechanics to nail down specific tolerances in order to reduce resistance and increase consistency. Once completed development into production can be made, creating moulds for injection moulding and other development for mass production. Once the final product is ready it can then be submitted for medical device regulation certification. Then steps could be taken towards supplying the device in pharmacies, schools, and medical areas nationwide and eventually internationally.

Awards

HSE Design on the Frontline 2025 Winner