Lumeco

What it does

Lumeco is a sensor that provides real-time information on the wearer's blood glucose levels. Unlike traditional disposable sensors, Lumeco utilises reusable components, reducing its environmental impact without compromising user-friendliness.

Your inspiration

As someone with type 1 diabetes who has relied on continuous glucose monitoring sensors for several years now, I have become increasingly concerned about the significant waste generated by having to replace these sensors every one to two weeks. With over seven million other users worldwide, this issue results in an alarming amount of waste annually. In discussions with fellow users and healthcare providers, I noticed that this concern is widely shared.

How it works

Lumeco consists of three integrated components that create a seamless and user-friendly system. First, there is the sensor itself, which is worn for ten days before needing replacement. Due to contact with blood and other body fluids, each sensor is single-use, and users receive a supply sufficient for several months. Second, a transmitter sits atop the sensor, wirelessly sending blood glucose readings to the user’s smartphone for real-time monitoring. Each transmitter is reused for ten weeks, matching the lifespan of seven sensors. Lastly, Lumeco features a reusable applicator designed for at least two years of use, facilitating the simultaneous application of both the sensor and transmitter. Once the transmitter's ten-week period and the applicator's two-year lifespan are complete, users can return them to local hospitals or mail them back. These components are then recycled by an external partner and reintroduced into Lumeco's production process.

Design process

I started the design process with a comprehensive analysis of the identified problem from a multidisciplinary perspective. Through desk research and interviews with fellow users, as well as other stakeholders, I gained valuable insights into the current situation and its challenges. Based on these findings, I formulated a design brief that provided clear direction throughout the project. The design brief was segmented into smaller problems, facilitating the easy evaluation of different solutions for feasibility and desirability. Working closely with users and manufacturing experts, I selected initial solutions for each problem, which were then integrated into a cohesive system. This integration required an extensive iteration process, utilising sketching, CAD modelling and 3D printing to refine the design. A functional prototype of the final design was created using these methods. Subsequently, this prototype underwent extensive testing with users and caregivers to validate its user-friendliness, receiving positive feedback overall. As a result of these tests, minor adjustments were made to further improve user-friendliness and aesthetics.

How it is different

Lumeco's continuous glucose monitoring sensor design is unique because it combines sustainability with user-friendliness. Many people find existing sensors with reusable components difficult and frustrating to use, making them hesitant to choose them. This reluctance persists despite increasing awareness of the environmental impact of other, more user-friendly options that rely solely on disposable components. These disposable options are easier to use but sacrifice sustainability. The only way to mitigate this trade-off in such designs is through technological advancements that lead to smaller components. Lumeco addresses this issue by offering a sustainable alternative that does not compromise on user-friendliness through a simplified application process. This approach allows Lumeco to make a meaningful impact beyond mere technological innovation.

Future plans

Lumeco, being a minimally invasive medical device, will have to undergo multiple clinical studies to meet the requirements for obtaining a CE mark. A crucial first step involves integrating existing sensor technology into Lumeco’s design to develop a fully operational product for these studies. Ultimately, my goal is to raise awareness about the increasing amount of waste generated by continuous glucose monitoring sensors and to make a meaningful impact with Lumeco, my own solution to this issue.

Awards

Lumeco has been chosen by Flanders DC as one of the top 25 graduation projects in Belgian design from the past academic year.