Meticulous Engineering in Medical Devices is a MUST
/Medical device manufacturing is an intricate process that requires methodical execution in order to keep patients safe. Instruments should be designed with usability in mind. This gives those performing the procedures the greatest chance of consistent success and therefore continued use. Not only is a good design easier to use, but there are fewer risk factors involved when devices are well-engineered.
What Challenges Must Be Considered
The biggest challenge facing engineers is interpreting the relationship between the user and the device. Special consideration needs to be given to the way the average person perceives information and then acts based on what he or she has observed. The medical device designer must be intuitive about how the user may manipulate the device while performing prescribed tasks and maintenance tasks such as, charging the battery and cleaning the device.
During product development, a design engineer has to keep in mind all phases of the product’s operation, from beginning to end. The user should be able to prep the instrument, use it and maintain it with ease, and the device should respond well to a human’s instinctive actions. Ergonomic concerns that should be addressed are:
How it fits into the user’s hand
The diversity of the users physical aspects and skill sets
What shape will work best for the intended purpose
How Proper Engineering Improves Usability
Devices are significantly easier to use when all human factors have been considered in the design process. Current technology has created common expectations when it comes to the way electronic devices work. By taking advantage of a person’s existing knowledge, engineers can build in functionality that is simple to operate based upon a user’s expectations.
If instruction manuals are more concise, users will have a much easier time comprehending them. Product design engineering companies also should prioritize patient safety, allowing a medical professional to use a device with confidence that the data they’re receiving is correct.
How Superior Design Reduces Risk
Managing risk is just as important to engineers as usability. A device needs to be able to supply the operator with accurate information, since these details are often used to make important decisions about their patient’s treatment and care.
Industrial design for medical devices should be intuitive enough that the potential for user error is low. The risk of malfunction needs to be thoroughly tested beforehand, with proper modifications to the product’s engineering to compensate for anticipated problems.
In choosing a firm to execute your product innovations, it’s important to pick the most meticulous industrial design services available. Get in touch today to start the process in bringing your medical device to fruition.