DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.

Customer Requirements

 

The customer, or in this project the device sponsor, Dr. Jim Browning of Boise State University, gave the Senior Design team a list of functions he requested be incorporated into the design of the Pill Box.

 

  • No secured pills
  • No requirement of the user to tilt the device to access their pills
  • No requirement of the user to retrieve their pills from a small compartment
  • Pills to be given in a cup
  • 28 Pill taking times
  • Programmable morning, noon, afternoon and even dosages
  • Large text screen
  • Large buttons for programming
  • Programming on off switch
  • No in depth programming menus
  • Retrievable user activity
  • Alert to remind user of proper pill taking times
  • Alert to discourage user of improper pill taking times
  • Audio alert
  • Visual alert
  • Light weight
  • Small enough for easy travel
  • Battery power (2+ hours)
  • Wall plug-in power
  • Well under 1000$ to manufacture

Device Specifications

 

Based on those requests and various analysis of feasible device objectives, the following engineering specifications were used in the device design and final product.

 

Specifications/Engineering Requirements

Need/

Want

Constraints/

Variables

Justification

Power Cord uses a standard 120V/15A standard us outlet

Need

Constraint

Readily available outlet type. Also easily attached to a travel power adapter.

Battery Life > 4 hrs.

Want

Variable

Allows device to function on short trips away from home.

No in-depth menus

 

Entering dosage schedule < 5 minutes

 

Device training < 30 minutes

Need

Variable

Enables short training times and reduced confusion in the proper utilization of the device.

Programmable option for early dosage up to an hour

Need

Variable

Grants a flexible dosage schedule for busy days.

Cost less than $700 to produce.

Need

Variable

Keeps device within reasonable budget for future manufacturing opportunities.

Pills are in a cup

Need

Variable

Requires minimum dexterity requirements by the patient.

Pill containment requires less than 4 lbs. of force to access outside of scheduled times

Need

Variable

Reduces chances of lawsuits. If the power goes out, the user will still be able to access their pills.

Pills would be contained if device is subjected to 3 lbs. of force

Need

Variable

Allows for jostling during travel without the concern of spilled pills Enables device to hold enough pills for 4 dosages a day for 7 days

4 adjustable pill taking times 

Need

Variable

Allows for adjustability in scheduled reminder times

Visual Indicator: 1000 mcd. light output

 

Audio Alarm System: 80 dB

Need

Variable

Ensures the patient is made aware that it is time for their dosage. The alarm will be easily seen checking to take pills. 80 dB was chosen to ensure that a hearing impaired patient might be able to hear a reminder. 80 dB is the equivalent to an alarm clock 2 ft. away.

Data Storage for at least 512 Mb Transferable Data

Want

Variable

Allows the caregiver to view pill-taking patterns of the patient. Gives enough space for more than 2 weeks of action logs.

Programming On/Off Option

Want

Variable

Prevents patient from accidently re-programming the device.

Fits within a traveling bag

 

Lightweight < 10 lbs.

Want

Variable

Allows for easy device transportation

Thus, the primary goals used within the project to define success were as follows:

  • Limited user and caregiver training required

  • Quick pill loading procedure

  • Sturdy and durable device

  • Limited maintenance required

DRAFT: This module has unpublished changes.