Ruma

작품의 기능

Ruma is a home kit that accompanies women in the first trimester of pregnancy, measuring the hCG hormone with lab-on-a-chip technology. It connects to an app that guides and alerts to risks, offering accessible care from home.

영감의 원천

In Mexico there is an important problem: many women do not know how to differentiate the different types of bleeding that can occur. With the intention of helping to resolve this situation, we began an investigation based on scientific data and interviews with specialists in women's health. During this process, we realized that it was not possible to address all types of bleeding with a single solution, as it is a complex and multifactorial issue. Therefore, we decided to focus our efforts on one specific aspect of the problem: early detection of possible risks of miscarriage.

작동원리

The system consists of three elements: a lab-on-a-chip cartridge, a reader device and a mobile app. It detects and quantifies the hCG hormone in capillary blood, facilitating pregnancy monitoring in the first trimester. The cartridge, with existing and patented technology, uses enzymes that separate plasma and deliver serum without clinical intervention. This serum is analyzed by a fluorescence sensor that measures the concentration of hCG. The result is interpreted programmatically and sent to the app; the reader only indicates that the analysis is complete. The process consists of five steps: power on and Bluetooth connection, insertion of the cartridge, sample application, analysis and confirmation of the result. The device integrates two PCBs, Bluetooth module, cartridge reader, fluorescence sensor, RGB LEDs, speaker, rechargeable battery, controller and USB-C port. The app records results, symptoms and offers guidance with a chatbot, empowering users.

개발 과정

Our design process focused mainly on validating three key aspects to ensure an effective and empathetic user experience. First, we evaluated the ergonomics of the product based on its size, for which we made multiple mock-ups in plasticine that allowed us to define the ideal dimensions according to the needs of our market. Secondly, we explored different shapes with the aim of transmitting a sense of security and calm; we generated several formal options and presented them to potential users, who chose those that generated the most confidence. Third, we worked on the intuitiveness of use, considering both the interaction with the device and the mobile application. We designed a complementary app that offers clear feedback through text, symbols and sound signals, thus facilitating a fluid and accessible relationship between the product and the user. With these elements validated, we developed a visual prototype printed in resin with the final finishes, as well as a functional prototype that integrated the symbols and signals that appear on both the device and the app.

독창성

What sets our product apart is that there is currently no device on the market that can accurately and affordably measure and quantify the pregnancy hormone (hCG) at home. Available options are limited to qualitative pregnancy tests or clinical tests performed in laboratories using venous blood or gynecological examinations. Our system offers an innovative solution by enabling quantitative detection of hCG from a capillary sample, without the need for medical intervention. In addition, it provides clear and continuous guidance through an app, giving users peace of mind by facilitating early detection of possible miscarriage risks during the first trimester of pregnancy and ensuring that the woman knows that her baby's development is going well.

향후 계획

Our future plans include integrating all chemical and electronic processes into a slimmer, more compact device with a touch screen for clear display of results. The kit will come in a case with a key ring attachment for portability. The product will allow weekly tracking of pregnancy, early detection of risks and monitoring of other biochemical markers, generating a complete history. In addition, disposable cartridges will be eliminated and the electronic components will be optimized to improve convenience and ease of use.

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