GE Vscan Aura
Portable Ultrasound
Design Intent
Hospital quality, portable ultrasound for use in areas without access to healthcare, to provide support for communities.
On Site Research
Visited Cincinnati Oral Surgeons. I was inspired by the viewing capabilities of the x- ray device.
The surgical assistant referred to this machine as perfect. This led me to think about other medical specialists and the machines they use.
Do ultrasound techs consider their machine to be perfect?
Series of phone calls to ultrasound techs and hospitals revealed the overuse injuries many suffer from. Carpal tunnel and arthritis are common.
Meet Brennen. He recently traveled to Africa to perform humanitarian nurse aid. He shared that the villages he visited had little to no healthcare capabilities. Access to healthcare was far away and costly.
The shape of the transducer causes overuse injuries. Hyper extension of the wrist causes carpal tunnel and arthritis. Techs use this device for long hours and are in dire need of a more comfortable and safer option.
Target Market
Humanitarian Aid Efforts
War Torn Countries
Natural Disaster Relief Areas
3rd World Countries
Further research revealed that a portable, yet still durable, ultrasound that provides high quality imaging was essential for these communities. Without ultrasound access, complications are much more common, gone undiagnosed these can become fatal.
Ultrasound imaging is essential in detecting early complications and ensuring the health of mother and fetus.
Desired Market
The market lacks a portable, yet durable ultrasound that provides high quality imaging technology.
The only brand for the job…
One of the largest names in imaging technology, GE brings innovation to the world of Med-Tech.
Gives back to struggling communities in a program called “Developing Health Globally”.
Important to me to find a brand that is both cutting edge and charitable.
“To create a world where healthcare has no limits”- GE Healthcare
Innovation is within GE brand language. I aimed to create something never before seen, but still representative of GE Healthcare.
Pain Points
Unergonomic
Sharp edges
Intimidating design
Hyper extension of wrist
Goal- Redesign the GE Vscan Air to be more comfortable, and have the hand fall in a more natural position. Create a friendly design for those unfamiliar with medical devices.
Form Inspiration
organic. friendly. calming.
Initial Ideation
Model Analysis
Focused Ideation
Mid Fidelity Foam Models
More complex shapes proved to be less comfortable to hold. Ideation from this point forward consisted of simpler forms.
Final Sketch Concept
Mid Term Critique
Through mid term critique is was decided this was the strongest concept. This model blended functionality and comfort with a sleek form.
Introducing…
ergonomic. friendly. intuitive.
