Robot lifeguard wins 15th International BraunPrize - full details of finalists

Easy-XM is a hand-held device that simplifies the selection, attachment and handling of glass cannulae when taking blood samples.

How it works: Taking blood plays an extremely important role in the process of assessing human health. Easy-XM can replace traditional blood sample containers made up of more than one small bottle. The tool consists of a number of bottles connected to a single main tube. The blood sample is controlled by activating a switch that directs the blood sample into the intended bottle without the procedure having to be interrupted. The key purpose of this device is to simplify the process of taking blood for nurses: a) through simple handling of the bottles, b) by eliminating the need to use bottles in a particular order and c) by preventing a patient’s veins from collapsing. Easy-XM not only increases the precision of blood tests, it also improves the efficiency of the medical staff and reduces the overall potential for error.

The benefits: By comparison with other methods of taking blood, Easy-XM can reduce the amount of time required by half.

What the jury said: This device represents an innovative method for taking blood that both simplifies and improves the work of the doctor. Patient discomfort is reduced thanks to the pre-loading of up to four vacuum bottles into the device. Easy-XM represents not only a functional improvement, but a psychological one too as the patient is given the impression that the whole procedure is being carried out more quickly and efficiently. The precision standards of the slide valve require further development.

The BraunPrize

In addition to the five finalists’ projects, the BraunPrize exhibition will also feature an exhibition of other designs. Nineteen projects from the second round of judging will also be on display and for the first time this year, the exhibition will also include eleven designs in a photo exhibition. These designs did not make it through to the second round, nevertheless stood out to the jury as worthy of inclusion due to their creative approach.

2005 is a special year for Braun, with the company also celebrating 50 Years of Design Innovation. Braun is commemorating the origins of the “new” Braun Design showcased at the 1955 Düsseldorf Broadcast Exhibition, which established Braun as the leading Design Company it still is today.

The International BraunPrize allows young designers to develop their skills and identity by giving a reasonably open brief. Entrants are asked to submit product designs, in the form of design sketches, technical drawings and project descriptions. These are designs that will make people’s lives easier at home, work, school, during sports and leisure activities or in the context of health and healthcare.

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