1. Combating Cold-Related Pain
Justin Pilarski and Nathaniel Yuen
Lawrence Technological University,
in collaboration with University of Detroit Mercy
“Brock Busters” Team Advisor: Mansoor Nasir

2. Mission Statement Strategic Focus
To improve the standard of life for paraplegics with novel designs. Our aim is to help the physically impaired by alleviating pain and discomfort induced by cold-temperatures.
Strategic Focus
We are interested in designing a cost-effective and reusable products that is Class I or II. We are not looking to design pharmaceutical solutions, single use products, or Class III devices.

3. About the Client Paraplegic Very mobile for wheelchair user
Mid-torso and lower
Very mobile for wheelchair user
Problem solver
No pain sensation in mid-lower body
Afflicted by pain related to cold weather, originating from lower extremities

4. Current Treatment Options
Need Statement
There is a need for a portable medical device capable of preventing debilitating pain that is caused by cold weather.
Current Treatment Options
Dressing warmingly
Warm water
Hand / Foot warmers
Heated blankets
Heated clothing [2]

5. Market Analysis Stakeholder Analysis
Patient Temperature Management
$2.5 Billion market by 2019
7.46%Industry Growth
Portable, Space-saving, Lightweight [1]
“There’s not a lot of scientific evidence showing a correlation between season changes and chronic pain, but patient experiences tell a different story.” [3]
Paraplegic Patient - Decision Maker
Affected by discomfort and debilitating pain
Caregiver - Provide assistance to patients
Amount of time aiding patient

6. Concept 1: Heated Seat Focused heating on lower back and buttocks
Added insulated blanket for legs
Easy installation
Mostly used for cars

7. Concept 2: Heated Clothing
Heat applied directly to skin surface
Fabric used as medium
Moderate installation required
Possible thermometer reading for monitoring
Lack of products for legwear

8. Concept 3: External Heating Unit
Portable, adjustable heaters
Attached to wheelchair
Heat volume of air around patient’s feet and legs
Moderate installation

9. Comparison of Concepts
Heated Sleeve
Heated Seat
External Unit
Insulation?
Good
Limited
Very Poor
Portable?
Yes
Convenient?
Somewhat Yes
Price?
Moderate
Low to Moderate
Low to High
Easy to Remove? No

10. References
by-portable-devices html

11. Questions?