Revamping the Design of Nadi Swedan Yantra: A Human-Centered Design Approach to Elevate Panchakarma Healing
摘要
Traditional Ayurveda practice is an emerging trend, yet the design of Ayurveda-related medical devices remains overlooked. Although certain devices used in Ayurveda, particularly those associated with Panchakarma processes, like Shirodhara and Nadi Swedan, incorporate modern components, there is a lack of research on improving their design. There is a need to reevaluate and enhance the design of the Ayurveda-related medical devices to optimize their healing potential by implementing design approaches like human-centered design (HCD). This study explores HCD as a transformative approach to redesign the Nadi Swedan Yantra (NSY), within the context of Panchakarma. Nadi Swedana is a traditional sudation therapy in Panchakarma, heavily relies on the NSY, primarily consisting of a steam generator and a tube facilitating steam distribution to various body parts. A competitive study of four identified NSY manufacturers was conducted. Detailed interviews with the main stakeholders (14 Vaidya and 5 Patients participated) were held to understand various needs and issues. Stakeholder-identified issues were assessed and validated, with the assistance of an expert. These prioritized customer needs were transformed through the Quality Function Deployment process into design requirements for the new design. Stakeholders verified the proposed design, confirming its improved safety, user-friendliness, and overall satisfaction. In conclusion, this study advocates for the adoption of the HCD approach by manufacturers and designers of Ayurveda-related medical devices, resulting in the creation of designs that are more secure, convenient, and satisfying.