How the project started

About seven months ago, while grocery shopping at our local EDEKA, I ran into one of my best childhood friends, Noah. We quickly reconnected and caught up.

As we continued chatting, I noticed something on Noah's arm and asked him what it was. He explained that it was an insulin pump. He had been diagnosed with diabetes at 16, and the device helps him manage his insulin levels.

The pump is part of a closed-loop system that he’s only had for a few months, but he’s already incredibly happy with it, even though these systems still have a long way to go and offer significant room for improvement.

The whole concept fascinated me, so when I got home, I dove into research to learn more.

Not too long ago, insulin-dependent patients had to prick their fingers multiple times a day with a device, then estimate and calculate how much insulin they needed to regulate their glucose levels, only to inject themselves with a syringe afterward.

This process, as you can imagine, was neither pleasant nor reliable, as it depended heavily on personal estimation and self-management.

Out of this frustration, a global diabetes community formed under the hashtag #WeAreNotWaiting, united in the pursuit of better solutions.
Among them was software developer Nate Loud, who created the first fully functional closed-loop system, testing and refining it on himself.
Once he was satisfied with the results, he shared it with the diabetes community as an open-source project called "Loop."

The response was overwhelming. Since the system was originally designed for personal use, it was difficult to set up, and Looper communities began forming worldwide to support each other through the installation process.

It was a breakthrough, and finally, a long-awaited advancement for diabetes patients. However, as with any new system, it came with its share of challenges, particularly when it came to the user interface.

Problems of the current system

A: Security Risk from Incorrect Input:

Current systems like Loop are often not adequately protected against incorrect inputs. Since these can have life-threatening consequences, improving security is crucial.

B: Stress from Information Overload:

Upon launching the app, users are bombarded with data, which can cause stress and overwhelm.

C: Difficult-to-Understand Graphs:

Some graphs are hard to interpret, and users are not provided with enough information about how they work.

D: Lack of Visual Hierarchy:

The applications often lack a clear visual hierarchy, making it difficult for users to distinguish between important and less important information.

E: Confusing/Unintuitive User Interface:

In many places, the user interface is unclear, with many icons and elements being unrecognizable, leading to mistakes.

The solution

Later contributors to Loop, such as TIDEPOOL, attempted to address these issues with an onboarding flow that included over 100 steps, providing users with detailed explanations of the app and assistance during setup. However, these solutions often created additional problems, as users typically forgot much of the information after the 45-minute setup process.

As a result, I decided to approach the problem differently. My goal was to redesign the app in a way that made it self-explanatory for patients, offering them support at the right moments. Additionally, one of my primary objectives was to make the app more secure.

That being said, let’s dive into Loop v 2.0.
A new home for Loopers.

Loop v 2.0

Loop v2.0 addresses the key challenges faced by modern closed-loop systems, paving the way for the next generation of diabetes treatment.

By focusing on improving usability, security, and user experience, it sets a new standard for diabetes management technology.

Let’s dive into how it works and the innovative features that make it a game-changer for both patients and healthcare professionals.

The new onboarding flow

In the new streamlined onboarding flow, Loopers can configure all the essential settings for their closed-loop system in just a few simple steps. Throughout the process, they receive clear explanations to ensure the setup is tailored to their specific needs.

The New Home

Loop v2.0 addresses the key challenges faced by modern closed-loop systems, paving the way for the next generation of diabetes treatment.

By focusing on improving usability, security, and user experience, it sets a new standard for diabetes management technology.

Let’s dive into how it works and the innovative features that make it a game-changer for both patients and healthcare professionals.

Let's take a closer look

When speaking with diabetes patients, it became clear that the most crucial piece of information for them is their current glucose level. By adding a trend indicator that shows how their glucose level is predicted to change, they can quickly assess whether everything is on track and make informed decisions about their health.