Sanofi-Aventis
Challenge
Sanofi-Aventis, the world’s third-largest pharmaceutical group, had developed a metered-dose, dry powder inhaler (MDPI). However, increasing focus on patient compliance, especially in the US, demanded that a dose counter be added to the device. PDD was selected to conceive, design and implement a device counter to provide accurate indication of remaining doses.
Solution
Ethnographic research with asthma experts, nurses and sufferers in the US, allowed us to define robust user and product requirements that were later endorsed by the FDA when it mirrored them in its published specifications.
Navigating a mature IP field, PDD designed an innovative counter mechanism that did not compromise the existing device performance and was also compatible with existing manufacturing plant and automated assembly machinery.
Result
Through qualitative research, inventive mechanisms, precision engineering and prototype verification, PDD was able to deliver a patented counter mechanism that is an integral part of the Sanofi-Aventis MDPI.
Client's Comments
"PDD’s continued partnership and support has helped Sanofi-Aventis to implement an innovative design solution that fits our current manufacturing plant and is sympathetic to our supplier’s 6 Sigma requirements."
Dave Shadwell, Sanofi-Aventis
