Privacy Curtain System

Overview

The client operates a full-service hospital curtain program, which involves installing, removing, laundering, and re-installing privacy curtains. Traditional systems are so tedious to service that contaminated curtains often stay up too long. Our team set out to redesign the system to improve ergonomics and dramatically speed up change-outs, encouraging more frequent replacements and a safer hospital environment.

As the lead mechanical engineer, I helped define mechanical constraints and designed hardware components including the plastic pull handle and reach-assist tool. I also built and tested prototypes from early concepts through high-fidelity looks-like/works-like models.

We delivered a design that has reached market and is being successfully deployed in clinical environments. The design also won a Core77 Health & Wellness Award.