Elan: A Children's Mouth Exam Product

Revolutionizing Pediatric Examinations with Innovation and Comfort

This innovative design, created by Adele Rehkemper and Cliff Shin, is set to revolutionize pediatric examinations. Elan is a unique children's mouth exam product that combines the functionality of a tongue depressor, thermometer, and camera. By integrating these features into a lollipop-shaped device, Elan provides a comfortable and efficient solution for examining young patients.

The strength of Elan lies in its ability to capture clear pictures of a patient's throat while simultaneously measuring their temperature. Traditionally, these procedures would be performed separately, causing discomfort and anxiety for young patients. However, with Elan, children can simply place the device in their mouth like a lollipop, automatically suppressing their tongue and allowing for a clear picture of their throat. This not only eases the examination process but also enables accurate diagnoses.

The design specifications of Elan include a height of 300mm, width of 200mm, and depth of 200mm. It is made using AL 6061 CNC and poly carbonate for CNC cutting. The camera unit is sterilized using UV light, and the captured images can be reviewed on a 7-inch LED screen. Elan also features a diamond-cutting base unit, a WiFi module for network connection, CMOS camera modules, and USB-C charging.

One of the challenges faced during the development of Elan was identifying reliable and adaptable technologies. The designers chose to use a WiFi module for network connection, ensuring seamless connectivity in various settings. Additionally, Elan incorporates a built-in UV light to sterilize the medical equipment, addressing hygiene concerns associated with the camera module. The lollipop shape of the camera module naturally suppresses the tongue, enhancing patient comfort and cooperation.

Elan not only improves the examination process but also addresses environmental concerns. Health care facilities generate significant waste, including tongue depressors. With Elan's innovative design, the need for disposable tongue depressors is eliminated, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Recognizing its excellence and innovation, Elan was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Medical Devices and Medical Equipment Design category in 2019. This prestigious accolade is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Elan's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics contribute to a better world for pediatric patients.

Elan, with its unique design and functionality, is set to transform pediatric examinations. By combining comfort, efficiency, and sustainability, Elan provides a solution that benefits both patients and healthcare professionals.