Root3 Labs supported the development of the PeritoneX™ through several design phases. Our initial proof-of-concept prototype consisted of a timing and locking mechanism which injected disinfectant and extracted the fluid after a set dwell time.

At this stage of design, we’re only concerned with proving that our design idea is feasible. This early prototyping phase is crucial to the development process. It allows us to focus purely on the technical aspects of our initial concepts and answer the first crucial question: “Will this work?”

Later, we’ll look at more pieces of the overall design puzzle which will help inform our decisions as we move through several rounds of iteration on the design. Don’t fall into the pitfall of trying to address every single design consideration all at once; think about your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) at each phase of design and focus on only those aspects of your design.

In the next phase, we developed a benchtop prototype which integrated electrical components and controls to create a simplified reusable unit. We evaluated linear actuation methods to compare cost and simplicity, refined electronic controls using an Arduino platform, designed a basic enclosure to house the components and developed a mounting mechanism for off-the-shelf syringes.

In a third phase of development, we began to refine the design towards a manufacturable product. We selected an off-the-shelf linear actuator to replace the 3D printed lead screw, added a battery pack, and updated the electronic controls and firmware. Compare the videos of the Phase Two and Phase Three devices below!