Reimagining Neonatal Warming with Otter
The Otter Newborn Warmer, a collaborative innovation by Design that Matters and MTTS, redefines neonatal care in hospitals with unreliable electricity with its portable functionality. This revolutionary device, winner of the 2026 Seoul Design Award Grand Prize, tackles neonatal hypothermia through an integrated, heat-conducting polycarbonate bassinet equipped with a built-in battery and an intuitive touchscreen interface.
In regions where conventional newborn incubators struggle due to power and maintenance challenges, the innovative device by Otter provides a crucial alternative. It was developed through extensive research and interviews across Africa and Southeast Asia, aiming to aid vulnerable premature and low-birthweight infants.
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A Seamless, Efficient Design with Portable Warmer Features
The US-based nonprofit Design that Matters and Vietnamese medical device manufacturer MTTS have replaced traditional warming mattresses with a polycarbonate bassinet. This design eliminates seams and fabric, making cleaning easier and reducing burn risks. The protected heating element and sensors are housed beneath the bassinet, safeguarding them from damage and simplifying maintenance.
Otter’s 3.6 kg frame is easily movable, allowing for easy transfer between departments without disrupting warming. Its battery ensures more than two hours of operation during power outages, with a touchscreen indicating crucial statuses and an alert system for any device issues. This makes the Otter a vital piece of hospital equipment.
Field Testing and Implementation
Kapiri District Hospital in Zambia has been using five Otter devices since May 2025 as part of an ongoing study. These units are evaluated for performance and integration into existing protocols, showing success with infants weighing as little as 840 grams. The study also highlights real-world challenges like power interruptions and limited technical support.
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While results are promising, the study continues to gather comprehensive insights on the effectiveness of these warmers in different settings.
Project Details
Name: Otter Newborn Warmer
Designers: Design that Matters (USA) | @dtm_org and MTTS Co., Ltd.
Award: 2026 Seoul Design Award Grand Prize
Sources & Links
Source: designboom.com
Frequently asked questions
What is the Otter Newborn Warmer?
The Otter Newborn Warmer is a device by Design that Matters and MTTS, aimed at redefining neonatal care in hospitals with unreliable electricity through its portable functionality.
How does the Otter warmer help in power-challenged hospitals?
The Otter warmer includes a heat-conducting polycarbonate bassinet with a built-in battery that ensures more than two hours of operation during power outages, offering a critical alternative to conventional incubators in such settings.
How is the Otter Newborn Warmer designed for easy maintenance?
The Otter Warmer features a seamless polycarbonate bassinet eliminating seams and fabric, with protected heating elements and sensors housed underneath, simplifying cleaning and reducing burn risks.
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