A5 Anesthesia System

Mindray Biomedical

Role: Lead Industrial Design, Research, DFM

Background

The mid-tier segment for anesthesia delivery is a mature market dominated by a few successful companies.  They leverage strong brand equity in healthcare and a large installed base to control the overwhelming majority of the market.

For Mindray the challenge was: with patient safety on the line, how to convince clinicians and administrators to consider alternatives to what is tried and true.

The answer was a keen focus on user experience, simplicity, fundamental ergonomics and a clean, robust design that makes the kind of first impression that warrants a second look.

 
A5 Anesthesia System

External and Internal Research

Although the A5 was Mindray North America’s first in-house designed machine, the company had years of experience in the market.  Significant “tribal knowledge” was brought to bear in developing product requirements.  This was supplemented by observational research conducted at two sites and involving procedures ranging from hip replacements to gunshot wounds.

 

Research Findings:

  • Even in large OR’s anesthesiologist's space is at a premium

  • Must accommodate a user who may be seated or standing   

  • Storage is critical - immediate access to equipment and drugs saves time and reduces stress

  • A large workspace is critical for the clean organization of tools and drugs

  • Clutter is a persistent problem

Strategic Marketing Requests

  • Large work surface

  • Central Brake

  • Easy to find O2 Flush button

Early Concept Work

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Full Scale Mockups

Quick, iterative foam-core models were made for review with internal stakeholders and clinicians.  Based on user observation, we tested the response to a positionable display that could be easily adjusted for use in both a seated or standing position based. Static versions were also considered. A rotating breathing circuit was also evaluated.

Details, Details, Details

  • High quality Aluminum and Steel touch points

  • A back-up trackpad to mitigate fears of a failed touch screen

  • Easy service access

  • Reduced screw count

  • Captive Screws on all panels

  • Generous Storage

  • Central Brake

  • Fine surfacing details to address ergonomic concerns

Measuring Success

As proud as we were to win an IDEA bronze what really mattered was the increase in sales Mindray experienced with the A5.  The A5 replaced Mindray's troubled AS3000 and in its first two years increased unit sales by 87%.  Now that's success.