This Is AuburnElectronic Theses and Dissertations

An Approach to Medical Device Design Considering a Second Life

Date

2011-08-22

Author

Morton, Albert

Type of Degree

thesis

Department

Industrial Design

Abstract

During the span of one year, a study will be conducted to see if an approach to medical device design could be altered to better consider the second life. This study will be performed with the thought that considering the second life of a product would improve the overall performance of the device in its first existence. Technology in the health care market has advanced at a rapid pace in the developed world, leaving some countries behind. This study will take a close look into the ability to have outdated devices from the developed world sent to developing countries. It will also look to see if the approach to medical device design considering the second life will make the device transition easier from the developed world to developing counties.