MHU
The future of adaptive healthcare for all, wherever and whenever.
Team Project | 7 weeks | 3 members
My role: Team Lead
Team: Industrial Designer, Mechanical Engineer
How might we develop a mobile healthcare unit post 2035, for rural areas in Northern Europe? In a collaborative manner with clients and stakeholders.
Brief
Develop a Mobile Health Unit to provide healthcare to remote areas in Northern Europe in 2035.
What is a MHU?
MHUs are transportable or relocatable structures that provide flexible healthcare solutions in response to a community’s immediate and long term needs (Red Cross). By 2035, we envision a tightly knit, resource limited, yet technologically advanced Nordic society.
Solution & Features
In response to the brief, we designed this MHU, named the “Turtle” which is an autonomous driving vehicle and has an automatic expandable structure. The MHU includes relevant features discussed with healthcare professionals and our clients. Providing adaptability to a range of situations. Height: 3m, Length: 9m, Width 2.7m (compliant with EU road regulations)
Adaptive Layout
Multimodal Docking with ambulances or resupply vehicles.
Specialised Equipment
Expandable Structure
Collapsible Modules
Autonomous Driving Capabilities
Module Deployment
I wanted the design to be expandable, so we developed two modules that could be stored within the vehicle. I was responsible for the deployment logic and for sourcing the mechanisms used to deploy the modules. Designer Harim Kwon developed the module design, while Vilis Zuromskis designed the chassis that houses them.
The deployment was conceived as a fully automatic process, the operator (likely a nurse) would open the rear door, which also functions as a roof, and the units would then deploy automatically using a combination of hydraulic and electric actuation. The system would rely on guided movement, locking points, and basic position sensors to ensure stable and controlled deployment. Once deployed, the floor would close to form the interior floor of the MHU.
Interior Layout
One of my key responsibilities was to design a safe, efficient interior layout that supported a clear workflow for operators.
I took inspiration from hospital triage principles and worked with stakeholders to identify essential equipment needs and operational priorities.
With this configuration, this layout provides clear workflows for the operators, centralised around the utilities zone, which is at the centre of the vehicle. Supporting the expanding red zone and the two modules for less severe injuries. This allows for quick responses and distinct zonal boundaries between the red zone and the yellow & green zones.
Physical Model
To support the team’s medical simulations, we developed a functional, expandable 1:18 scale desktop model using Additive Manufacturing.
I iteratively tested components in Rhinoceros and produced 3D printed parts for the model, using them to evaluate spatial and functional performance. Working closely with stakeholders, I refined the configuration to meet their requirements and optimise the layout.
The model allowed us to test with stakeholders using figurines and small cameras to conduct use scenarios. I was able to adapt the model further, for example by swapping utilities zone components to fit the use case.
We also produced a near 1:1 scale small example of a module and conducted testing with healthcare professionals.
X-Ray Scanner
Cabin Fitting
Interior Spatial Design
Top Down Perspective
Custom Collapsible Beds
Testing with Professionals
Use Case Scenario
A use case scenario was produced to pitch the concept to other healthcare regions around Finland, this example was presented to the healthcare regions of Northern Ostrobothnia and Lapland.
Our example was centred around the popular Finnish Solstice Festival in Ruka, Northern Ostrobothnia.
Alongside providing rural healthcare to small towns, we also envision the MHU being used for festival support.
In the Nordics, a lot of festivals are held in small towns, with populations of less than 5000, and often lack immediate healthcare support. The MHU fits into this role with its adaptable healthcare and modular design.
The future of adaptive healthcare for all, wherever and whenever.
