In a medical emergency, the faster a patient receives attention, the better their prognosis becomes. Natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods can make transferring a patient to a hospital difficult. What if the hospital could come to the patient?
That question spurred the creation of the Medical Motherboard (MM), a modular, scalable mobile hospital that can adapt to multiple crises at any scale. Designed by CallisonRTKL, the MM combines artificial intelligence, advanced medical equipment, electric vehicle technology, and drones into one life-saving package.
See Also: Public canopy system can be reconfigured by drones on the fly
MM is built on a platform that acts as the backbone of the system. Based on electric vehicle technology and automobile platform concepts, the platform houses the power bank, telecommunications equipment, computer systems, and support infrastructure that allow the modules to plug and play on its surface. A spine rises from the platform and contains water filtration and docking stations for minor modules.
Courtesy CallisonRTKL.
Minor modules act as the support services to the major modules (more on those later). They consist of services like registration and triage kiosks; water collection, purification, and storage; power supply; supply storage; equipment storage; and a drone-assisted resupply station. The registration and triage modules are equipped with AI that asks victims questions and helps first responders interview and classify them in terms of urgency. AI can then call for help or direct victims to the appropriate major module for further care. The major modules are medical care facilities like exam rooms, imaging suites, and operation rooms. The combined module space for each MM is 8x24 feet; side extensions can be attached.
The modules can be mixed and matched to best suit the situation. Once the appropriate modules are selected, they are moved onto the platform and locked into place. The onboard MM computer will then identify, catalogue, and connect the modules into a single network.
The MM is then towed on site like a technology packed camper trailer. Hydraulic stabilizer legs and a folding solar roof panel deploy to complete the set up. A rooftop air purifier system begins to ventilate the major modules.
In the event of a large-scale disaster, groups of MMs can be deployed together with complementary modules to create an entire mobile hospital.
Related Stories
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Visual energy model database demystifies net-zero design
Diamond Schmitt Architects’ ecoMetrics tool allows its designers to quickly analyze solutions based on models from 44 LEED-certified projects.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Reusable infection control barriers ease hospital renovation
Clark Construction Group pilots the Edge Guard system on the Fair Oaks (Va.) Hospital reconstruction project.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Novel construction approach speeds K-12 school projects
The Folia system uses pre-engineered components to deliver school buildings at 20% less cost.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Mobile emergency room arrives just in time for Alabama hospital
The MED-1 Mobile Hospital Unit serves as a lower-cost solution during construction of new ED.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Durable coffeemaker brings a bit of comfort to job sites
The CoffeeBoxx is lightweight rust proof, dust proof, water resistant, and ultra durable.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Reclaimed wood paneling adds color to retail and hospitality projects
Colorburst panels are available in four stock options—Robin Egg Blue, Viridian Green, Haute Pink, and Cascade White—as well as custom colors.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Biophilic pods beat the shade when it comes to outdoor cooling
The Xylem concept by CallisonRTKL regulates outdoor thermal comfort through shading, air movement, water circulation, and a vegetated roof.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Mini-grant R&D program pays off in a big way for AE firm
Created through funding from Little’s LaceUp program, the Center for Building Performance has helped the design firm win 14 new jobs since its inception.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
At Beyer Blinder Belle everyone’s seeing RED
The firm’s R&D initiative inspires its designers to develop ideas that could positively disrupt the practice.
Great Solutions | Aug 23, 2016
Virtual care facility serves remote patients, may reduce readmissions
Mercy’s new high-tech medical center equips its medical professionals to deliver care at the bedside of patients anywhere.