Mass
Spectrometer Refresh
Client
PerkinElmer
Year
2021
Category
Medical / Diagnostic
Type of Work
Research
Ideation
Visualization
PerkinElmer requested a design refresh for a Mass Spectrometer they had in their portfolio, that came to them via acquisition. Due to that, it didn't necessarily blend well with their product line styling, and they wanted to simplify the engineering for production while better incorporating in their visual brand language.
On-Site Visit
To get a grasp for the client's needs and desires, we visited with a subject matter expert at a working lab to learn about the device in-person. Here we were not only able to see the things the client wanted improved, but additionally some opportunities the client hadn't yet realized.
Design
Constraints
Due to existing tooling costs and estimated quantities, the client was adamant that the door tooling, thus the physical form, could not be changed. This left a large half-moon cutout feature that we needed to incorporate into the top portion of the concepts.
Part Split
Simplification
Another aim of the project was assessing the existing part split, and the order in which components were accessed. Optimizing the splits would lower manufacturing costs and make assembly and maintenance easier.
Combining Features
Based on client feedback and collaboration with engineering, we came up with the optimal direction for the revised module by combining a few different concepts. This approach not only cleaned up the look, but it also combined necessary features and tools that were previously independent of the system.
Selected Direction
The selected direction combined the optimal part split and new features, with the aesthetic the client felt best blended in with the existing door and current brand portfolio.
Prototyping
The client went on to create a full prototype of the design using engineered components. The original design intent was able to be achieved without issue do to the ongoing collaboration between design and engineering throughout the life of the project.
