Rapid Development of COVID-19 Testing Solution
Overview
Digital Health Solutions partnered with a startup diagnostics company to develop an inclusive, at-home COVID-19 testing device specifically designed for individuals with visual or physical impairments. The device utilizes a magnetic nanoparticle (MNP) sensing platform that enables precise, electronic result detection and audible feedback rather than relying on visual cues. Our multidisciplinary team led the design and prototyping of magnetic sensors, electronics, firmware, and mechanical housing—delivering a fully integrated diagnostic reader for internal testing and future commercialization.
Project Highlights
Challenge
Accessibility Requirements: Enabled use by individuals with limited vision or motor skills, necessitating non-visual result reading and simple operation.
Sensor & Electronics Design: Developed high-sensitivity magnetic coil sensors and compact analog electronics for precise signal capture.
Usability & Cost Constraints: Designed a cost-effective, single-use cartridge and accessible enclosure system for home-use environments.
Our Approach
Hardware & Firmware Engineering: Engineered custom magnetic coils and analog/digital electronics with rapid firmware iterations for signal processing.
Mechanical & Industrial Design: Developed multiple industrial and mechanical prototypes, integrating usability and accessibility considerations.
Rapid Prototyping & Testing: Delivered four full prototype generations, each improving sensor integration, performance, and user experience.
Impact
System Integration: Fully integrated system (coils, PCB, firmware, housing) delivered by the fourth prototype, ready for internal testing.
Diagnostic Innovation: Enabled the client to evaluate a novel diagnostic workflow optimized for accessibility.
Project Transition: Successfully transitioned a robust platform to the client’s team for final refinement and future commercialization.
Takeaways
Integrated diagnostic platform: Delivered a functional system combining custom coils, electronics, firmware, and housing by the fourth prototype.
Accessibility-first design: Engineered for users with visual or motor impairments using magnetic sensing and electronic result readout.
Rapid prototyping execution: Completed four iterative hardware builds, enabling internal testing and smooth client handoff.