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Product Designer
Product Manufacturer Product Description and Principal Function(s) “Compact without compromise”The S8 series flow generator is the next generation of ResMed’s range of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) devices. The system significantly improves the health and quality of life for people suffering from sleep apnea by providing positive air pressure to the upper airway during sleep. ResMed’s S8 series offers AutoSet TM technology that, unlike conventional fixed CPAP devices, delivers varying pressure in response to the patient’s dynamic needs. The optional HumidAire 3i humidifier reduces the drying effect of positive air pressure therapy and provides enhanced patient comfort. A unique patient management system assists the patient and clinician to monitor, adjust and maintain the system. The system’s compact, lightweight, yet robust design makes the S8 System incredibly convenient for travel and expands the lifestyle choices of the patient. Key Product Features and Benefits The S8 system (including HumidAire 3i) represents a quantum leap in CPAP design and maintains ResMed’s strong reputation for quality and reliability. It compresses the advanced treatment and comfort of ResMed’s AutoSet technology into a travel friendly product with superior usability and functions. One of the challenges in treating sleep apnea is enabling patients to accept therapy and equipment. From the bedside to the suitcase, the S8 system is designed to integrate readily into the patient’s lifestyle and physical environment.The most notable achievement of the S8 series of products is that size is significantly reduced, yet this truly integrated system offers a rich set of features and functions, uncompromising on performance, therapy, usability and quality. In total there has been a 69% reduction in the flow generator volume. The humidifier is also substantially smaller, yet maintains the same water-holding capacity as previous and comparable products. The compact size and features such as internal switchable power supply and 12V input make the S8 system perfect for travel. This dramatic size reduction is due to the innovative use of new processes and materials, which combined with efficient design reduces the number of components required for assembly. Processes such as co-moulding and over-moulding are used to produce parts with integral air and water seals, vibration dampening and noise isolation. This technology is critical in providing safe and reliable pneumatic and electrical connections between flow generator and humidifier. IR (infra-red) technology allows wireless communication between the flow generator and humidifier removing the risk of water ingress. IMD (in-mould decoration) panels produce high quality graphics for branding and labelling while providing functional benefits such as securing components, sealing, tactile mechanisms, integrated windows and light pipes. For improved durability and strength, stainless steel and nickel-plated diecast components are used in critical areas such as the latching between modules and the structural member of the HumidAire 3i, which also forms the hotplate and lid latch point. Modular by design, the S8 system can be customised to the needs of the patient. Options such as the HumidAire 3i or muffler can be used to optimise comfort and “breathability”. The S8 system recognises the value of patient management with smart card and data modules helping to monitor therapy and make adjustments remotely. All this has been achieved while offering enhanced usability. User interfaces continue to provide large, clear controls while the handle accommodates larger hands. Backlighting and tactile feedback facilitates easy operation at night. Form details and boldly coloured regions help identify areas of interaction and exclusive patient reminders assist in system maintenance. The unique “flip-top-lid” of the HumidAire 3i, radically improves access to the water chamber, facilitating regular removal for cleaning and refilling. ResMed has built a strong reputation for quality and reliability making it essential to uphold the ResMed visual brand. An evolution of ResMed’s existing design language, the S8 maintains an identifiable format while introducing more subtle yet sophisticated surface detailing. Split lines and surface details of the S8 flow generator integrate seamlessly with modules yet appear complete in a stand-alone mode. The traditional colour scheme has been carefully adjusted making it more contemporary while still maintaining the iconic ResMed visual cues. Metallic and gloss finishes on the IMD graphic and etched keypad add a sense of quality and value. Warmer neutral tones create an informal feel that is harmonious with the bedroom environment. A simple, uncluttered appearance helps the patient feel comfortable with the product and treatment of their condition. |
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Design Award of the Year
