TRANSONIC FLOWMETER

The next generation Transonic Flowmeter is used in conjunction with surgical Flowprobes to measure blood flow during open surgical procedures in a variety of applications.  Brownlie Design’s involvement with this project began with extensive research on usage, customer needs, and pain points, as well as manufacturing and shipping concerns. Through interviews and observations in the United States and abroad, followed by sketches and mockups, a vision for the new Flowmeter and cart began to emerge. Our ideas, along with user interface concepts, were tested internally and with numerous user groups to ensure the design fit well with Transonic’s manufacturing capabilities. Working closely with the Transonic team, Brownlie Design developed the full CAD model for the meter enclosure and the cart. The result was a versatile product that can be configured to individual needs, ships and sets up easily, and established Transonic’s new brand identity.

CONMED TROCAR

Used in laparoscopic surgery, the trocar is the port through which a surgeon works. After studying the process of inserting and using the trocar, we developed a unique asymmetrical form that provides superior control. Overmolded elastomer adds slip resistance to the grip and acts as a seal between the trocar head and the cannula. Once the trocar penetrates the abdomen, the cap of the trocar is removed with a simple twist, revealing the sealed access port. One innovation was the integral stopcock for abdominal insufflation that not only cuts costs but reduced the risk of accidental tool snagging. Brownlie Design changed ConMed's product development process with this design project by introducing ergonomic form exploration early in the process and by delivering full CAD documentation to preserve the design intent.

CAREFUSION NERVE STIMULATOR

Brownlie Design worked closely with the CareFusion team to develop the stimulator for their EDX Neurology Diagnostic System. Used to perform nerve conduction studies, electromyography, and Evoked Potential testing, the stimulator was ergonomically designed with input from world-renowned neurologists and electrodiagnostic technicians. Brownlie Design also developed the mechanical details of the enclosure, which include easy-to-assemble snap fits, overmolded Santoprene soft-touch areas, integrated cord strain relief, and tightly toleranced, multi-position probe attachment details.

EPIMED STINGRAY

Epimed International, a producer of premium epidural catheters, asked Brownlie Design to develop the Stingray Catheter Connector. The soft-edged, low-profile form allows it to comfortably reside with the patient in a hospital bed. The winged sections provide the torque required to securely fasten the connector to a catheter. The quarter-turn rotation at the midline is intuitive to use with strong visual and tactile indications. Careful attention to details like the catheter lead-in and color coding has resulted in an overwhelmingly positive response from FDA inspectors, ISO auditors, and customers alike. The distinctive shape gives Epimed a highly recognizable product form that is friendly and unintimidating. The Stingray Catheter Connector won Best of Category in the I.D. Annual Design Review and has been well received by physicians and patients, citing improvements in comfort, catheter security, and simplicity.

ABIOMED BIVAD DRIVER

This revolutionary product from Abiomed is a portable pneumatic ventricular assist device designed to allow high-risk heart patients to recover at home. It temporarily supports the heart in circumstances where the heart has failed, giving it a chance to rest and heal. Brownlie Design’s extensive interviews and situational research led to an understanding of patient and caregiver needs and limitations, both physical and psychological. Encouraging mobility and a return to a more normal lifestyle is key to patient recovery. Integrating this understanding with functional, mechanical, and regulatory requirements, we created a driver, as well as a carrying pack and cart, that supported all the situations of daily life, including sleeping, bathing, dressing, walking, climbing stairs, and going outside the home, as well as maintenance and emergencies.

WELCH ALLYN COMPACSET

The CompacSet combines an ophthalmoscope with an otoscope, giving physicians two of their most commonly used tools in one convenient package. Both of these instruments, along with specula storage and battery access, are integrated into a simple, pocket-sized tool formed with a comfortable and balanced grip. This design enables physicians who examine patients outside their offices to carry just one hard-cased unit with one power source instead of two separate instruments.

SMITHS MEDICAL ACAPELLA CHOICE

Building on the success of the original Acapella vibratory PEP therapy device, Smiths Medical asked Brownlie Design to develop a next-generation product that would better meet the patient’s needs. Keeping the existing internal vibration mechanism that loosens lung secretions, Brownlie Design created a two-part hinged housing that allows for easy cleaning—a feature not incorporated into the original design. The mouthpiece can be removed to unhinge and separate the housing halves for washing. Because the internals were originally inaccessible, features were added to the mechanism to aid in handling and reassembly. By integrating the flow tube into the lower housing half, the assembly was simplified and the overall cost reduced. The shape echoes the original product, which was important for maintaining the flow characteristics, but an improved grip was provided to aid people with compromised handling abilities.

ARROW INTERNATIONAL HANDPIECE

Brownlie Design worked closely with Arrow International to refine the control handle for their next-generation, noninvasive, real-time hemodynamic monitor system. This system uses ultrasound technology to measure continuous aortic blood flow. Our involvement included development of an ergonomics-driven form, the aesthetic and mechanical design for the clamping mechanism, and a resealable watertight access port. The sleek, elegant appearance of the handpiece was well received in preliminary market testing.