Designing a sustainable transition in the MedTech industry
An analysis of the current challenges for the implementation of the circular economy on surgical devices like the single-use endocutter
D.C. van Dolderen (TU Delft - Industrial Design Engineering)
C.A. Bakker – Mentor (TU Delft - Circular Product Design)
J.C. Diehl – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Design for Sustainability)
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Abstract
This graduation project explored how the circular economy could be implemented for single-use surgical devices like the endocutter. Design for reprocessing appears to be the best strategy, but modular solutions should be considered when reprocessing the entire device is not feasible. The project followed a transition management approach; a sustainable future is envisioned for the industry, and through backcasting a radical but short-term feasible solution is designed which could help us move towards this future. Conceptual service design “MedFlo” helps healthcare facilities overcome barriers in the implementation of modular devices into their workflow and logistics, by providing access to a safe and complete inventory of devices. MedFlo can help decrease the environmental and waste footprint of medical devices, create more resilient supply chains, stimulate circular design initiatives and serves as an example of how the circular economy can be implemented in the MedTech industry.