Clinic in a Can

Breaking Ice: Crafting a Subzero Water Solution for Extreme Conditions

Overview

Clinic in a Can builds medical clinics inside steel shipping containers for global health and disaster relief. The containers are shipped worldwide and provide turnkey clinics that can be up and running within the same day.

Clinic in a Can Website

Problem

The containers rely on space efficiency, where every inch matters. Currently, the water systems are mounted on the back of the container but when the containers ship to subzero environments, the unit is susceptible to freezing. How might we help Clinic in a Can create a subzero water system to provide potable water in subzero environments?

Solution

Design a water bladder system that is portable, adaptable and space efficient.

Stakeholders Meeting

We went to the Clinic in a Can facility to see and learn more about the medical clinics and what parameters we had to work with.

  • ADA Compliance: Water system placement is challenging due to space constraints inside and shipping limitations/costs outside.

  • Water System Design: Requires separate containers for clean water and waste, but inconsistent sizes currently hinder efficiency.

  • Power Requirements: Solar-powered units may operate off-grid; water flow relies on gravity.

  • Mobility: Water system must be elevated to avoid damage during relocation by forklifts.

  • Insulation: Water needs to be able to flow in subzero temperatures.

The A/C unit sits on the back left of the unit. To the right is where the current water system is housed.

Collaborative Idea Generation

As a class, we engaged in group brainstorming to generate individual concepts.

  • Brainstorming: Generated "How Might We..." statements for addressing challenges.

  • Research: Referenced existing products that tackled similar issues.

  • User Journeys: Defined paths and experiences for end users.

Ideating

  • Sketching: Each team member generated 20 sketches independently.

  • Peer Feedback: Discussed ideas with three classmates to gather diverse perspectives and refine concepts.

  • Crazy 8's: Utilized the "Crazy 8's" technique to rapidly ideate and expand on concepts.

  • 3-Page Solution Sketch: Developed a concise solution sketch spanning three pages to flesh out ONE idea in more detail.

Prototype - Bladder Bag System

By prototyping a bladder bag solution, I solved the initial challenges in the following ways:

  • ADA Compliance: Bladder bags stored inside during shipping, then relocated outside upon arrival for accessibility.

  • Water System Design: Two bladder bags provided: one for potable water, one for waste, each equipped with drainage hoses for efficient water management.

  • Power Adaptability: Bags can be positioned flexibly, even suspended from the container to utilize gravity if power is unavailable.

  • Mobility: Lightweight design facilitates easy relocation to optimize clinic setup and functionality.

  • Insulation: Option for insulated wraps ensures temperature control; bags can also be strategically placed in direct sunlight for additional heating.

Next Steps & Learnings

  • Pitch Presentation: Each team member had 3 minutes to pitch their idea to the client.

  • Client Response: We received enthusiastic feedback from the client, indicating interest in our proposals.

  • Learning Experience: I recognized the need for a more concise and well-prepared explanation of the prototype, gaining valuable insight into client communication and presentation skills.

  • Future Plans: I anticipate observing how our think tank session influences the incorporation and utilization of a new water system in future clinic designs.

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