Page 316 - Control Theory in Biomedical Engineering

290 Control theory in biomedical engineering

patients with NPC. The NasoXplorer aims to monitor and increase the fre-
quency of observations of NPC while reducing the burden on healthcare
professionals. We focus on the mechanics of the NasoXplorer and will
not discuss further considerations for camera models and electronic transfer
or quality of captured images. For the final prototype, we used optical fibers
to test the viewing angle of the NasoXplorer. Although the NasoXplorer has
only 2 degrees of freedom, it has a wide viewing range of up to 90degrees.

2.1 Device specifications from anatomical considerations
Besides user needs and intended use of a device, other design considerations
had to be made to consider the different anatomical variations of different
people. We observed that several characteristics played a part in anatomical
differences.

2.1.1 Anatomical variations in shape
The NasoXplorer aims at minimizing end-user discomfort, especially for a
self-administered device. As the distal segment of the device will seek to
work as a probe, a flexible and soft material was deemed most suitable for
this function. The flexibility of the NasoXplorer allows the camera to have
a broader optical viewing range, while the softness of the device prevents
significant user discomfort. By minimizing the size of the NasoXplorer,
patients with different nose shapes are easily be able to navigate the naso-
pharynx region. Hence, the functionality of NasoXplorer is maximized in
the observation of the nasal cavity and nasopharynx region.

2.1.2 Anatomical variations in size
Anatomical differences exist between individuals. For the NasoXplorer to
cater to different individuals, anthropometric data had to be studied. As
the NasoXplorer is designed to be self-administered, the reduction of
end-user discomfort was of importance. This meant that we had to
cater to all patients regardless of anatomical differences. The rigidity of
the NasoXplorer provides a fuss-free, easy-to-use solution for patients.
A softer, flexible tip was employed to allow monitoring of the more
in-depth part in the nasopharynx region. However, our device may not
be suitable for viewing the deeper regions in the nasopharynx region. This
can be improved in the future by using a more extended tip. However,
adjustments may have to be made to the length of the spring as a more