NPL
PiUCT
1 in 7 in the UK will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. As with all cancers, the key to successful treatment is early detection.
Designworks worked with NPL to develop the PiUCT, a pioneering breast cancer diagnostic system. Existing methods of detection (such as x-ray mammography or clinical examination) are adequate, but this new system should provide a simpler and far less invasive experience with clearer, more accurate results.
The ground-breaking system is being developed alongside NPL, University of Bristol, and Precision Acoustics Ltd, with the help of Innovate UK funding.
The new method of detecting ultrasound produces images with fewer imaging artefacts, ultimately delivering a less stressful and more precise diagnosis.
Designworks have been pivotal in taking the core concept and transforming it into a fully considered system; including ergonomics, anthropometrics, user-experience, scalability and mass-manufacture.
In preparation for an NCRI Partners Conference, Designworks created a full-scale prototype of the product. Subtle features such as soft LED lighting, aromatherapy diffusers and tablet entertainment were incorporated, whilst ergonomic considerations such as easy access from the rear and a height adjustable bed create a friction-free interaction for both patient and operator.
The project achieved fully resolved ultrasound imaging technology and lead to further developments to continue to optimise the couch, and to adapt the technology to other applications in early screening for cancer risks.
