Current Limitations and the Urgency for Innovation
Despite established protocols and standardized maneuvers, the clinical reality reveals significant limitations. The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) recommends back blows and, if ineffective, the Heimlich maneuver. However, it openly acknowledges that both treatments are supported by very low-quality evidence and carry potential risks, such as abdominal bruising or rib injuries. In fact, the primary goal of any intervention for a foreign body airway obstruction is to relieve the blockage without causing significant harm to the patient.
Moodboard and Sketches
The elements included featured minimalist tech products, such as those by Dyson, which combine efficiency, visual clarity, and reliable finishes; rapid-response medical devices like inhalers, respiratory masks, mouthpieces, and cannulas, which helped us better understand the dynamics between the body and the device; public space elements like AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) and fire extinguishers, which served as references for how an object should be presented and positioned in emergency situations; and technical details such as haptic-feedback buttons, suction modules, and compact motors, with particular attention to Dyson’s 28 mm motor, one of the smallest and most powerful on the market.
The Solution
Numa’s design has been developed with a clear focus on technical efficiency, functional clarity, and formal care. Its main body combines an ergonomic and robust volume—designed for a comfortable and secure one-handed grip—with a technological aesthetic reminiscent of brands like Dyson.
The user interface is reduced to a single visible red button that instantly activates the suction system.
The suction system connects to an anatomical mask that covers the mouth and ensures the seal required to create a vacuum. This mechanism is powered by a high-performance, compact, and silent internal motor, run by a rechargeable battery.
The materials used reinforce the medical nature of the product: an ABS housing and a medical-grade silicone mask that is hypoallergenic and replaceable. Additionally, indicator lights and instant feedback are included to confirm correct operation.
