Framtagning av produktkoncept för extraktion av fekalieprover

Sammanfattning: This report incorporates a product development project, carried out in close connection with the Malmö-based biotechnology concern - Eurodiagnostica - that specializes in development of diagnostical tools for human diseases. The product, that is to be set under development by this project, is a faecal extraction tool. The device will enable the process of dissolving a specified volume of human faeces into buffer solution, in order to produce a clear, homogenous fluid that is set to undergo calprotectinanalysis. This diagnostical process will be carried out in clinical labs at supporting hospitals. The project is carried out in line with the one endorsed in the subject book of ‘Product Development and Design’, by Karl Ulrich & Steven Eppinger. In accordance, the entire development process is planned, at large, setting up target dates for when to have reached certain checkpoints in the process. At the same time the boundaries of the entire project and the prerequisites are being set with Eurodiagnostica. To begin with the report clarifies the science behind calprotectin analysis and how it can be used to diagnose certain intestinal diseases. The extraction process is thoroughly explained and thereafter also a compact description of the analytical calprotectin detection process is given, in order to clarify the context in which product is to be developed. A user survey is carried out in order to emphasize expected features in a faecal extraction device. Even a hands-on laboratory experience is carried out in order to understand the role of the primary users. Furthermore, a Market Screening is carried out, for inspiration as well as to see what quality of competition exists on the market. A mapping of features and target specifications can be defined as a result. The concept generation scene is explored by dividing it into three distinctive phases – Phase I, II & III. Phase I represents a wide and creative exploration of ideas for all of the product’s specified features. In Phase II focus lies on combining features into a whole and integrated product, which serves the role of a complete link in the larger calprotectin-analysis process. In the last phase, Phase III, validated solutions from the previous phase are combined to create a new concept platform, by name ‘Fusion’. A lot of focus is concentrated into exploring the fine details of the product – such as, making sure adequate sealing is reached, dimensioning the product for user interaction etc.