Design with its finger on the pulse: medical technology that has won the Red Dot
The leading international medical trade fair “MEDICA” will take place in Düsseldorf from 18 to 21 November 2019. The more than 5,000 exhibitors from over 60 countries are expecting visitors and media representatives from all over the world. Many of the exhibitors have also taken part in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2019. It became clear in the course of the competition that the design of medical products is now increasingly important and that, particularly in the field of medicine, it is more than just a ‘nice shape’: it helps to reduce the technical complexity of the devices and to ensure simple and intuitive handling. In addition, designers have to guarantee safety and reliability and meet the ever-higher demands in terms of hygiene. Using new materials can reduce the weight of the products and achieve a pleasant touch and feel, for example. The products that were successful in the Red Dot Award: Product Design 2019 prove that all of this is possible. In the truest sense, they have their finger on the pulse.
Innovations for treatment at home
This year’s Red Dot winners include BenQ Materials from Taiwan. Its “SIMO Negative Pressure Wound Therapy System”, designed by the Vetica Group, allows for simple and safe treatment outside of a hospital setting and with less expense. The system promotes healing in acute and chronic wounds. It is so light and small compared to traditional applications that it fits in a trouser pocket. The colour-coded band, an acoustic signal and the sensing knob on the device show whether there is enough negative pressure.
Another Red Dot winner is the “Infrared Thermometer” by Ningbo Lead Medical Technology, designed by Shenzhen AOJ Medical Technology. It features one-button operation and a large display, making it particularly easy to use. The patented probe caps are attached magnetically. This allows users to switch quickly between the ear and the forehead and prevents the cap from getting lost. “Thanks to its clear operating layout, measurements with the infrared thermometer are effortless and the magnetic cap is also extremely convenient,” summed up the Red Dot Jury.
Improved user experience
The new MRI device “Ingenia Ambition” from the Ingenia series by Philips gives patients a better user experience. The understated design, which conveys a sense of lightness and generous dimensions, reduces the volume of the scanner optically and helps to reduce patient anxiety. The system also offers an audiovisual experience to calm patients. In addition, the scanner has a fully sealed BlueSeal magnet that allows for helium-free operation. The product won a Red Dot for its design.
Philips also received an award for the computer tomography system “Incisive CT”. Its fresh design and lighting concept have a calming effect on patients. Because the operating consoles are affixed on both sides, the operator can work directly on the scanner and stay close to the patient. “With its sensitive balance of shapes and surfaces, the Incisive CT gives rise to an iconic aesthetic that is emotionally appealing,” said the Red Dot Jury in regard to the product.
The therapy table from the “NEXX” series by Reinbold is just as user friendly as the products from Philips. It offers a high degree of stability for all kinds of physiotherapy treatments and optimum access to the operating elements for the medical staff while leaving enough room for patients to move comfortably. The integrated roll lift system allows for gentle lifting and lowering of the table.
Digital technology as a driver of the future
“The da Vinci SP surgical system offers an intelligent way to use innovative technology in a user-friendly and intuitive manner. Consisting of an ergonomic control console, three multi-jointed instruments and a 3D HD camera, this system sets new standards in minimally invasive surgery. It enhances the surgeon’s ability in terms of visual perception, precision and control”. This is what the jury had to say about the surgical system “da Vinci SP®” by Intuitive, which won the Red Dot: Best of the Best. The combination of innovative robotics, stereoscopic 3D HD visualisation and intuitive operating elements allows the system to function like a natural extension of the surgeon’s eyes and hands. User friendliness, an ergonomic design, efficiency and precision are just some of the benefits offered by the device.
Another example of the use of intelligent technology is Red Dot winner Care of Sweden. The award-winning anti-bedsore mattress from the “CuroCell” series created by Zenit Design serves to prevent and treat pressure sores in bed-bound patients. An intelligent sensor ensures that the settings are continuously adjusted to the individual’s needs and circumstances and allows the pump as well as the mattress to work together fully automatically. The mattress is operated using an easy-to-clean interface with touch buttons. In addition, the Air Flow Control system ensures that the air in the cells is reused. This means that the mattress uses less electricity, is quiet and keeps an even temperature.
Red Dot Award: Product Design 2020
2020 will once again see the jurors for the Red Dot Award: Product Design find out what innovations manufacturers and designers have developed to simplify the day-to-day lives of doctors and nursing staff. Companies from all over the globe are currently entering their products in the world’s most renowned design competition. They are not limited to the categories “Medical Devices and Technology” and “Healthcare”. The competition covers the entire range of product design – from “Kitchen Taps and Sinks” and “Outdoor and Camping Equipment” to “Industrial Equipment, Machinery and Automation”.