LifeSaver
Designing a decentralized healthcare system that enables non-experts to deliver safe, guided medical care in remote and extreme environments.
Problem
Healthcare systems today are highly centralized, expensive, and often inaccessible in rural regions, disaster zones, and off-world missions. In these environments, trained medical professionals may not be present when care is urgently needed.
How might we empower non-experts to confidently deliver safe, effective medical care under stress?
Solution
LifeSaver is a portable healthcare ecosystem combining physical equipment with an intelligent software assistant.
- Medical Pod: A compact kit containing essential treatment tools and sensors.
- AILA (AI Living Assistant): A mobile and AR interface that diagnoses conditions, guides procedures step-by-step, and monitors vitals in real time.
Design Process
Research & Insights
We began with generative research across urban, rural, and disaster-relief scenarios. Personas and workflows were mapped for emergencies, medication delivery, and routine checkups.
Three recurring needs emerged: clarity under stress, extreme portability, and resilience without internet access.
Designing for Samsung Flip 5
The foldable form factor allowed us to design for both rapid access and sustained medical workflows.
- Closed: A compact square display for vitals, alerts, and one-tap emergency actions.
- Open: Dual-pane layouts supporting procedures, navigation, and patient data simultaneously.
From Wireframes to High-Fidelity
Early wireframes focused on validating dual-screen flows and reducing cognitive load. As we moved to high-fidelity prototypes, layouts were refined to remain legible, calm, and actionable in high-stress situations.
Key User Flows
- Guided Procedures: Step-by-step checklists with timers, visuals, and confirmations.
- Quick Access Panel: Swipe-up tools for vitals, camera, maps, and timers.
- Vitals Monitoring: Real-time data with trend views and color-coded risk alerts.
- Camera & Sensors: Automated vitals capture and emotion detection for mental health screening.
Testing & Iteration
LifeSaver was field-tested on Devon Island, a Mars analog site, using Wizard-of-Oz simulations. These tests revealed the need for clearer instructional hierarchy, stronger visual feedback, and AR-based guidance for hands-free operation.
Impact & Reflection
- Enabled non-experts to confidently perform guided medical care in remote environments.
- Showcased at World Design Capital 2024, engaging healthcare professionals and global designers.
- Deepened my experience designing AR workflows and stress-resilient interfaces.