autoinjector

Large Volume Autoinjector

Ypsomed

YpsoMate 5.5

Background

Since 2016, we have partnered with Ypsomed to bridge the gap between our industrial design expertise and their engineering development team to deliver the award-winning YpsoMate device portfolio. 

 

Acting as a flexible extension to its engineering team, we create concepts to deliver simple-to-use and ergonomic designs, that transfer into engineering design and volume manufacture without compromise.

 

Ypsomed is now pushing boundaries with the development of the YpsoMate 5.5 which can handle large volume, high viscosity liquid medications up to 5.5 mL.

 

When designing handheld large volume injection devices, it is vitally important to optimise size and form to ensure optimal usability for successful drug delivery.

Value Delivered

  • Fully detailed industrial design ready for transfer directly into engineering development
  • Inclusive design successfully tested by users with reduced dexterity
  • Innovative 360° rotating UI which provides the user with constant feedback during long injection times
  • Industrial Design with consideration to Ypsomed brand

Project Scope

Industrial Design, User Interface Design, User Experience, Human Factors

Project Scope

Industrial Design
User Interface Design
User Experience
Human Factors

It is simple to use, ergonomically designed, has integrated needle safety, and provides audible and visual feedback.

Comfortable grip

For delivering larger, higher viscosity doses that take significantly longer to inject, it was essential to consider a comfortable grip. With it being a platform device, it will also be used for various medications and by people with different levels of dexterity.

To accommodate this, we created a narrow section amongst the internal components to create a ‘waisted’ section acting as an intuitive and comfortable area to hold. Further assistance is provided via the textured surface for additional grip.

The positioning of this section also encourages users to grip the device between the rotating indicator and drug window, ensuring that these key user interface points are visible during the injection.

industrial design skecthes

Rotating Progress Indicator

The rotating indicator enables the user to easily check on the progress of the injection. Its location at the top of the device makes it easy to see while injecting different sites on the body, while also less likely to be covered by a user’s hand.

 

We tested various locations and window sizes before arriving at the 360° design. By working closely with Ypsomed’s engineering team we were able to achieve this without any additional components or compromise to device function. It provides visibility on all sides, including from above.

 

The 360° indicator, large drug window and audio feedback allow the user to operate the device with confidence and know when a full dose has been delivered.

Human factor studies have shown that constant feedback during injection reduces anxiety and gives the user confidence they are performing the injection correctly.
close-up of autoinjector spinning rotator

Intuitive and easy-to-remove cap

The critical first step in the process was to ensure the cap could be identified and easily removed by all patient groups. Through extensive prototyping and 3D printing various cap designs, we made the shape a distinct ‘grippable’ form, contrasting the top of the device and flared to an extent so users can comfortably pull the cap without having to twist or squeeze.

 

Designs were tested with gloves that restrict movement in similar ways that someone with rheumatoid arthritis may experience, and a test rig was created to replicate worst-case scenario pull-off forces.

person removing cap from autoinjector

Designed to blend into people’s lives

On top of user-centred design, we supported Ypsomed in creating a device that was aesthetically pleasing and reduced any patient anxiety associated with injection devices. The outcome was a design that blurs the boundary between a medical and consumer product.
“The breakthrough of this larger volume autoinjector platform device is testament to Ypsomed’s dynamic research and development. We’re proud of the design for the YpsoMate 5.5 and delighted to see the attention that it’s getting in the industry”
Jimmy Mower, Design Consultant

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