Tough Challenges Test Creativity

RhinoChill wanted Nectar’s help in developing a non-evasive, trans-nasal cooling system that would lower brain temperature. It is intended to induce mild hypothermia in neurosurgical patients in surgery and intensive care. And overcome limitations of other temperature reduction technologies like water-filled blankets and pads and intravascular cooling devices.

Nectar’s Success: Experience-/Process-based Solutions

1. Design research included the study of competitive products, patient environments, product demonstrations, EMT usage, and and EMT vehicle environments.
2. Engineering services included finite element analysis, configuration studies, prototype testing, bill of materials, and production drawing package.
3. Industrial design services included field research on user interaction, form factor optimization, usability studies, and mockups.

Positive Results Exceed Expectations

The RhinoChill System enables early and safe administration of therapeutic hypothermia. Its proprietary battery powered design is portable and compact for efficient use in the field. As a result, non-specialized medical personnel can begin the brain cooling intra-arrest — before the return of spontaneous circulation.