Rapidzeal

What it does

The hemorrhage control device quickly stops internal bleeding by inflating a balloon that applies pressure and releases a clotting agent. It’s easy to use and designed for emergencies before hospital care.

Your inspiration

The decision to address this issue arose from identifying a crucial gap in emergency care: non-compressible hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death in trauma, particularly in military, law enforcement, and remote civilian settings. Traditional external pressure techniques often prove ineffective for deep abdominal or junctional wounds where bleeding cannot be easily accessed. The inspiration for the solution came from examining current hemorrhage control methods such as tourniquets and REBOA . Although effective, these options are either limited to limb injuries or require specialized training and equipment.

How it works

The device is inserted into the wound while covered by a sterile sheath. Once inside, the sheath slides back and locks, exposing a balloon. The tip has a small hook that gives a gentle “click” when it’s in the right spot. Then, the balloon inflates with fluid, pressing against the wound to stop bleeding. Between the balloon’s layers, a clotting agent is released through tiny holes to help blood clot faster. A pressure gauge shows how much the balloon is inflated, helping the user avoid injury.

Design process

Early Concept and Initial Research Tourniquets only stop external bleeding, so a device was designed to apply internal pressure and release clotting agents. Early work included brainstorming and CAD modeling of a balloon, catheter, and fluid system. Balloon Development and Material Testing Latex balloons of varying thickness balanced flexibility and strength. Ballistic gel simulated tissue for testing balloon behavior. Various hole designs were tested; a flap-valve system ensured controlled clotting agent release. Exploring Deployment Structures Origami-inspired folds let the balloon expand inside wounds, fitting irregular shapes and maintaining steady pressure, preventing premature inflation and easing handling. Catheter and Ribbed Tube Design Initially silicone, then TPU catheters delivered the balloon and clotting agent. Ribbing enhanced grip and locked the retractable sheath. Resin prototypes were brittle; TPU improved durability and flexibility. Balloon Assembly and Housing Latex layers dipped using 3D-printed molds ensured uniformity. Clotting gel was injected and sealed with medical silicone. A flexible housing maintains balloon shape and protects it.

How it is different

Controlling severe bleeding, especially from deep internal wounds, remains a big challenge. Tourniquets work well for limb injuries but can’t be used on internal or junctional wounds, and prolonged use risks tissue damage. XSTAT improves on this by filling wound cavities with expanding sponges, but it’s limited to extremities and requires surgical removal of the sponges. REBOA balloons control bleeding by blocking major arteries but need advanced training and imaging, so they’re mostly for hospitals. My device fills these gaps by targeting deep internal wounds. It uses a double-layer balloon that applies pressure and releases a clotting agent through tiny holes. The balloon folds to fit irregular wounds, and a sterile sheath with a toggle lock keeps it clean and stable during use. A hooked catheter tip gives tactile feedback for correct placement. The valve lets you inflate the balloon with a syringe or IV bag, making it flexible for different emergencies.

Future plans

improve the double-layer balloon, hemostatic agent, sheath, and toggle lock for durability and reliable use. Experts will guide material choices, and feedback will refine ergonomics. Usability tests will ensure ease for all users. Clinical tests will confirm safety, followed by human trials and regulatory approval. Intellectual property will protect the design. Partnerships with emergency and military teams will support validation and pilots. Marketing will focus on hospitals, EMS, military, and civilians, highlighting ease and lifesaving benefits.

Awards

The design was awarded Best Prototyping Process in Product Design at Technological University Dublin (TUD). This recognition highlights the rigorous experimental development, innovative use of materials, and hands-on approach that guided the creation and refinement of the hemorrhage control device.