Using a seismic sensor to improve PET scan imaging: A new product development case study

Abstract

A new product development (NPD) process consists of a sequence of events that create, model and implement an idea. All of these processes share some common stages necessary to ensure a successful new product launch. An interdisciplinary team was tasked with executing the initial phases of the NPD process for a start-up. This paper presents an exploratory case study following their journey of development of a novel application involving a MEMS accelerometer, typically used in seismic sensing, to improve PET scan imaging for medical diagnostics. Their work is interpreted with the theoretical stages mentioned in the literature and insights are drawn from the design thinking and validation methods used by this team. The effectiveness of these methods as perceived independently by each team member is also analysed. The criteria used for screening possible applications during the entire process are presented and an evaluation of their effectiveness and relevance is conducted.