Vera delivers hormonal contraceptive transdermally and tracks for ovulation to empower and inform women.
Design a wearable technology concept, device, and UI for five years in the future using realizable technology.
Disciplines
Industrial Design
UX / UI Design
3D Visualization
90% of women in the United States have used contraceptives.
Finding the right birth control can be a long and frustrating process.
Each available birth control method prevents pregnancy in a different way and comes with different strengths and weaknesses - the more options that are available, the more individuals can find what's right for them.
Market Opportunity - The Patch
Transdermal contraceptive delivery (AKA "The Patch") is worn continuously and delivers a constant dose of hormones. Many potential users don't prefer its medical look, but it has an advantage over the pill since it doesn't require daily interaction, reducing the likelihood of human error.
BBT increases health awareness
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) is measured every night, and can be used to track ovulation by observing a slight increase in temperature which occurs after ovulation. Hormonal birth controls work by preventing ovulation, so tracking for it can provide peace of mind.
Hormonal contraceptive's efficacy relies heavily on correct use.
Obscured Cycles
Hormonal contraceptive methods can obscure cycles within the body - removing awareness about ovulation/pregnancy.
BBT Tracking
Basal Body Temperature (BBT) can be used to identify if/when ovulation occurs.
Design Goal
Create a device for women that expands contraceptive options and increases health awareness.
Vera performs two main functions:
1. Delivers birth control through skin.
The cartridge in Vera contains progestin and estrogen which are absorbed through a membrane into the skin. These hormones suppress ovulation, crucial for preventing pregnancy. The cartridge has adhesive backing, ensuring a secure seal to the skin.
2. Tracks for ovulation by measuring BBT.
The temperature sensor in Vera monitors body temperature during deep rest and sends data to the user's phone. If a spike in BBT suggests ovulation, the user is notified to use other contraception for at least seven days.
Each replaceable cartridge is made up of an outer casing, drug reservoir, rate controlling membrane, layer of adhesive, and release liner.
The cartridges are replaced once every three weeks by the user.
Designed to fit in to everyday wear
The Vera app notifies the user about cartridge replacements and potential ovulation. The home screen consists of glanceable widgets that give information about BBT tracking, cartridge schedules, and symptom tracking.