The Mobile Stroke Unit (MSU) is a specialized ambulance equipped with cutting-edge technology to diagnose and treat strokes on the spot.
By bringing the hospital to the patient, the MSU significantly reduces the time. It takes to begin life-saving treatment, which is crucial in stroke care. Time lost is brain lost, and with the MSU, we are transforming the way stroke treatment is delivered.
The MSU-8 mobile stroke unit was developed through a collaboration between RMA Automotive, Mahidol University’s Faculty of Engineering, and Siriraj Hospital’s Faculty of Medicine. This partnership focused on designing a vehicle capable of supporting a heavy CT scanner, ensuring the structure and attachment points could withstand the weight and stresses involved. To achieve this, RMA used advanced engineering analysis, including Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to simulate the forces acting on the vehicle under compression standards (FMVSS 220).
The design also adheres to international safety standards, including the BS EN 1789 standard for emergency medical vehicles, as well as local regulations from Thailand’s Emergency Medical Institute (EMS) and the Excise Department’s 2018 Royal Gazette announcement. The result is a high-performance mobile stroke unit that meets the rigorous requirements for patient care in emergency situations.
Through this project, RMA Automotive has further advanced its engineering capabilities and automotive technology, positioning itself as a leader in mobile medical solutions in Thailand and beyond.
In 2023 it was awarded the grand prize at the invention symposium, WorldInvent Singapore. In the case of a stroke, early treatment is essential to ensure the best rate of patient recovery. Purpose-built with a CT scanner on board and connected via ultra-fast 5G to the neurologist, the MSU allows for radiological diagnosis, evaluation, and effective early treatment of stroke patients.
The MSU is stationed at satellite locations with easy access to main roads and highways that can be easily reached by ambulances to cut down on transfer times.
Aside from the CT scanner, the medical interior is outfitted with computer systems and other specialist equipment. A specially designed access ramp moves the stretchered patient into the ambulance interior. Power is provided by independent inverters while integrated stabilizers are deployed to create a perfectly steady environment.
Upon arrival, the specialists performs an on-site CT scan to determine the type of stroke. With the help of telemedicine, a neurologist reviews the scan and advises on the treatment plan in real time.
The MSU-SOS is outfitted with the latest medical technology to ensure the best possible care for stroke patients. The onboard CT scanner allows u s to perform brain imaging on-site, critical for determining the type of stroke and the appropriate treatment. With telemedicine, our onboard team can consult with leading neurologists in real time, ensuring that each patient receives expert care without delay.
All of the structural and weldings are designed according to European standard requirements.
The CT scanner mounting structure is analyzed to determine its strength according to European standard requirements
The system was designed to integrate with lithium batteries to support patienttransport and loading system
This feature is to support the vehicle height adjustment. It lowers the vehicle to facilitate patient loading and offloading.
The system ensures absolute stability for the scanning process with fully automatic leveling achieved within 2 minutes
Made of aluminum which is light and offers good corrosion resistance, the folding step also has an automatic stop and close function when the rear door is closed.
Specific high-intensity Interior lighting (1650 lux) with front/rear light bars and surrounding emergency lights according to ambulance standard compliance
Medical grade interior fittings with anti-slip and anti-bacterial floors
Medical bay compartment panels are fitted with the lead sheet and glass to protect against rediation form the CT scan operation and also tested by Regional Medical Sciences (Center 6 Chonburi)
High electric power consumption generator (220V/10kW) with lithium batteries to support the CT scanner and all medical equipment. Touch screen monitor to activate and monitor the electrical part status and function.
System designed and set-up for doctors in the hospital to interface with patience in the medical-bay.