What it does
All' Scan is a smart medical device that automates skin prick tests by handling needle insertion, allergen application, and disposal. It enhances accuracy and hygiene while reducing repetitive workload and human error.
Your inspiration
I took an allergy test and observed that nurses manually applied each allergen during the change of seasons. This experience revealed how repetitive and labor-intensive the process was, raising concerns about human error and inconsistent results from a patient’s perspective. So we conducted field research, observing skin prick tests and interviewing nurses. In under-resourced clinics and rural health centers, staff shortages made reliable testing even more difficult. Recognizing the need for standardization and automation in allergy diagnostics, we developed All’Scan, an automated device that improves accuracy, hygiene, and efficiency.
How it works
All' Scan is a smart medical device that integrates an Arduino based control system with precision mechanical design. When the user presses the start button, a linear actuator activates and moves forward a drawer containing allergen solutions, precisely coating the tip of the needle. Then, a rack and pinion mechanism moves the needle module vertically toward the skin, inserting the needle to a depth of approximately 1.0 to 1.2 mm. During this process, a spring loaded structure automatically compensates for differences in arm height to prevent over-insertion, while the needle angle is fixed at 90 degrees to ensure accuracy. After the test, the automatic disposal system activates. Using a magnetic latch and gravity assisted release, the needle is ejected downward into a lower compartment without contact. The entire process is controlled by three simple buttons: start, stop, and refill, and includes an emergency stop function to ensure user safety.
Design process
The development of All' Scan began with identifying real-world issues in clinical environments. By observing skin prick tests in hospitals and interviewing nurses, we discovered key problems such as inconsistency in test accuracy, poor hygiene, and the repetitive burden placed on medical staff. Based on these findings, we conceptualized a smart device that automates the three main steps of the test: allergen application, needle insertion, and disposal. After ideation, we developed the first working prototype using CAD modeling and an Arduino-based control system. While the initial version achieved insertion accuracy, it showed pressure inconsistencies due to variations in arm height. To address this, we integrated a spring-loaded structure that automatically compensates for vertical differences, maintaining consistent insertion pressure. For needle disposal, we initially relied on manual removal, which was inefficient. We then designed an automatic ejection mechanism using a magnetic latch and lever structure to enable contactless disposal. Currently, we have completed a third prototype with stable structure and reliable operation. Future improvements will include a precise liquid dispensing module and user interface upgrades to prepare for potential clinical commercialization.
How it is different
All' Scan is offering a fundamentally different approach from existing solutions. In most clinical settings, nurses manually perform allergen application, needle insertion, and disposal, which leads to inconsistencies in test accuracy, hygiene issues, and high labor demands. Some foreign products assist only with one step, typically insertion or dispensing, and often lack integrated disposal functions. In contrast, All' Scan automates all three core steps, application, insertion, and disposal, within a single device, minimizing user intervention and ensuring consistent test quality. Its spring-loaded height compensation mechanism and contactless magnetic disposal system represent design features rarely seen in similar products. Additionally, by using an open source control platform, the device can be easily customized for different clinical environments, enhancing both its scalability and originality.
Future plans
All' Scan has reached its third prototype, and the next step is to integrate a precise dispensing module to improve allergen delivery accuracy. The user interface will be upgraded to a touch system with a display for real-time feedback, enhancing usability. We will also modularize the internal structure for easier maintenance and redesign the exterior with compact and curved features suitable for clinical settings. The electronics and firmware will be updated for integration with hospital systems, and we plan to pursue clinical testing and certification for commercialization.
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