IV Illuminator

For a medical device start-up company, we embarked upon a multi-phase program to convert existing product documentation for an IV Illuminator from 2-D drawings to 3-D solid models after which we were relied upon to improve the product design. In a ‘eureka!’ moment, we discovered a key patentable phenomenon which greatly enhanced the most critical function of the device thereby posturing the company for market success.

Challenge

Phase 1 – Drawing to Model Conversion:  Existing product documentation consisted of 2-D drawings which needed to be deciphered in order to build a 3-D solid model assembly for improved product performance, product quality and documentation.

Phase 2 – Product Optimization:  From the assembly model of the existing metal-fabricated design, a revised model was to be created that considered construction from commodity plastics from which prototypes were to be fabricated for client evaluation.

Solution

•  created 3-D ‘as-built’ solid models from 2-D drawings of all parts and assemblies using SolidWorks® software
•  improved the 3-D CAD design by using fabricated thermoplastic components
•  prototyped and evaluated the improved design
•  improved the light refraction technique and modified the design to accommodate the new approach
•  prototype the new design and delivered the hardware to the client

Services/Skills

•  3-D CAD modeling
•  Mechanical Design
•  DFM (Design for Manufacture) principles

Results

This project provided converted documentation and hardware, subsequent to which the critical function of the device was drastically improved resulting not only in a marketable and manufacturable product but also consisting of new, patentable features.

US Patents 6,877,877;  7,052,158.