4D Insights

Leonardo Bilalis, a PhD student at the University of Piraeus, Greece, is working on a project creating a 3D-printed medical mask called "AMARYSIA ARTEMIS," incorporating an intelligent round display from 4D Systems. This advanced mask, designed for use in intensive care units (ICUs), integrates several biometric sensors, offering immediate sensor data for medical applications. The team faced challenges with the geometric design and integration of the display within the mask. They selected the Smart pixxiLCD-13P2 display from 4D Systems, which offered on-board smart graphics, embedded drivers, and a variety of display tools. The project underscores the potential of additive manufacturing in customising medical equipment to enhance patient care.

Caretaker Medical, a digital health company, has developed VitalStream, a wireless wearable monitor improving patient outcomes by measuring continuous 'beat-by-beat' blood pressure, vital signs and hemodynamics. This technology, conceived over several years, is aimed at enhancing patient comfort, communication capabilities, clinician workflow, and importantly, the accuracy of measurements. To facilitate an intuitive user interface, a suitable touch display was needed, which would be located on the patient's wrist for easy configuration and operation, a feature not previously available in older versions of the VitalStream platform. Compliance with rigorous standard operating procedures (SOPs) and healthcare regulations is critical throughout this design process.

CEiiA, the Centre of Engineering and Product Development that pushes innovation in various sectors, found itself in uncharted territory during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite no prior experience in ventilator development, the confronting reality of a ventilator shortage prompted the Portuguese company to respond. Racing against time, CEiiA aimed to produce a new, low-cost, easy-to-assemble ventilator that could be locally produced in Portugal, to meet the immediate and overwhelming demand. The result was the Atena – an Invasive Medical Ventilator, a device designed to increase COVID-19 patients' survivability by providing mechanical invasive ventilation.

MicroPlasma Ozone (MPO3), a manufacturer of Smart Ozone Systems for maintaining the health of in-ground swimming pools, partnered with 4D Systems to develop a user-friendly and information-rich interface for their ozone generators. Unlike their competitors' systems, which rely on basic on/off switches and LED indicators, MPO3 desired an embedded touchscreen HMI to provide detailed information about the pool's health. After consultation with their preferred team at Digi-Key, Mouser, they opted for the gen4-uLCD-43DT from 4D Systems, chosen for its larger screen, compatibility with their existing enclosure, and powerful processor. The touchscreen displays real-time data on Ozone Gas Flow, Temperature, Humidity, and Ambient Ozone Gas, and system health. The successful product launch has resulted in positive market feedback, with users appreciating the innovative HMI integrations and detailed system operation information.