Modern
Bandaging
Rethinking Bandages for the Modern Life
Disposable bandages have limited innovation since the invention of the Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid in 1926. Through thoughtful redesign of the packaging, wrapper, and the bandage itself, I embarked on a journey to enhance user experience, particularly for those with limited hand dexterity and single-handed users. The end result promises a more effortless and enjoyable experience, greater independence, and a simplified bandage application process.
Undergraduate Senior Capstone Studio
Professor Verena Paepcke-Hjeltness
Iowa State University
The Human Problem
I pinpointed key areas of improvement of the bandaging experience through user testing. I identified specific stages within the bandaging process, starting from acquisition and unboxing of the packaging, all the way to actual application.
Two primary areas for improvement became evident: first, the ease of opening the bandage envelope, and second, the simplicity of removing the non-stick tabs before applying the bandage.
My goal is to ensure that when the need to apply a bandage arises, users do not have to endure the strain and stress associated with a cumbersome experience using outdated technology.
Accessibility
Better design for those who find traditional tasks difficult is better design for all. The motivation is to improve design for users who have mobility or dexterity issues in the wrists and hands.
I developed this arthritis simulation glove to get a better understanding of how physical limitations inhibit range of motion. This simulation prototype aided in the product development.
Improving design for individuals who face challenges with traditional tasks benefits everyone. The driving force behind this initiative is to elevate design standards, particularly for users grappling with mobility or dexterity issues in their wrists and hands.
To gain deeper insights into the impact of physical limitations on range of motion, I designed an arthritis simulation glove. This prototype played a pivotal role in informing and advancing the product development.
Solution
The bandaging device case is composed of white ABS plastic and red ABS plastic touchpoint components including the lid slider and rubber push tabs. When dispensing the bandaging, the rubber tabs are gripped to stop the spool from turning and allow the user to tear a section of bandage using the serrations on the underside of the lid slider.
The plastic case can be opened fully to replace the bandage spool. The bandaging medium is an absorbent polyurethane foam. On the side facing the wound, the bandaging is striped with body-safe hypoallergenic adhesive. Perforations in the foam bandage provides air circulation.
The Design Journey
I gathered a wide variety of bandaging supplies domestically and internationally. I analyzed and reverse engineered for ease of use, materials, and quality.
Combined with research on manufacturing methods, this gave me understanding of the rapid production for these type of products.
Breaking down the problem into parts, I looked at potential unique solutions, and then combined those solutions into conceptual products. The bandage roll concept was found to be the most feasible in combining new material technology with a familiar form.
Form Analysis Research
To understand the potential size and shape of the device, foam models were used to work out the exterior dimensions for maximum comfort and ease of grip.
I explored grip patterns to make the rear of the case more distinct on where to hold the device. Operation and grip of were determined while considering the hand and wrist feel while holding the models.
Function Analysis Research
Models were made to explore components that would provide sterile housing for the bandaging, easily opened and shut, and allow bandage spool replacement. A variety of opening sizes, sliding lid styles, alignment pins, and case lid sizes were experimented with to find the optimal combination. Push pads were developed to control spool dispensing with the grip.
