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Product Designer
Product Manufacturer Product Description and Principal Function(s) The SL50 is the world’s first random access slide loader enabling round the clock operation of image analysis cancer detection systems. Currently, pathologists must manually record the identity of each slide prior to loading and load slides one at a time for automated scanning by image analysis systems. The SL50 enables pathologists to load 50 slides for automated scanning, allowing the instrument to run overnight and enabling pathologists to concentrate on more valuable activities. The SL50 forms an important part of an image analysis system developed by Applied Imaging Corporation that will be used to detect secondary cancer cells that may be present in patients bone marrow and which may lead to the development of cancers in other parts of the body.Principal function(s): The SL50 is unique in its field because it - • Enables the user to randomly access each of 50 microscope slides, and transfer to and from a microscope • Allows the user complete access for manual operation of the microscope • Provides accurate repositioning of the slide on the microscope • Automatically reads slide barcodes enabling accurate database maintenance Key Product Features and Benefits The SL50 sets a very high benchmark in an emerging product category in the biosciences sector.The SL50 represents ‘state of the art’ design, engineering and compliance with market specifications in a dynamic and growing industry sector. Development from a blank sheet to manufactured product was achieved in 13 months, and provides important opportunities for promoting Australia’s world class skills in design and manufacture of medical equipment. Product life cycle and environmental considerations: The SL50 has been designed to be used in medical laboratories, by specialist pathologists. The design supports the required level of cleanliness and non contamination of slides. Operating systems are simple and straightforward, from a host PC. It is designed to be highly reliable, and to run unsupervised for long periods. Materials used have no specific environmental issues, and include steel fabrications, molded ABS polymers, and electric and electronic components. Relevance of external form and ergonomic considerations: The SL50 is used in medical laboratory environments where the majority of equipment used is ‘functional’ rather than beautiful. The SL50 provides a cohesive design solution, with outstanding functionality and ergonomics combined with premium aesthetics which sets a new benchmark for laboratory products. Slide loading is accomplished by inserting moulded slide trays into well defined slots, using large, comfortable tray grips. The SL50 provides a minimal footprint in laboratories where benchspace is critical. Aesthetics: The aesthetic presentation of the SL50 is ‘state of the art” and intended to use achieve product and brand differentiation based on the quality of the design. In an environment where the majority of equipment is fabricated sheetmetal and somewhat crude in appearance, the SL50 provides a cohesive, integrated aesthetic comparable with the best in consumer products. The design provides the smallest possible footprint, a baseplate to ensure accurate positioning of the microscope, and smooth, flush surfaces consistent with cleanliness requirements. Slide tray slots are clearly defined and provide an aesthetic focal point, and translucent cover provides both interest and safety from moving mechanisms. Safety: The SL50 utilises electronic interlocks to ensure that trays are fully inserted before operation can commence. Slide handling uses vacuum to prevent damage to the glass slides, and slide handling mechanisms are located behind a translucent cover. Design problems encountered and solved: The principal design objective was to achieve a high quality product presentation with a minimum of tooling and manufacturing investment. This was achieved using low cost tooling technologies with a minimum component count, and high quality surface finishes. Slide loading and unloading was in important consideration. Damage to slides could not be tolerated, and slide trays provide safe, obvious slide positioning, easy and straight forward tray insertion, and indication of correct placement. Important and innovative features: The SL50 is a new and innovative product, providing automated slide loading to an image processing system. A key objective was to provide an aesthetic solution as innovative as the mechanical solution, to set a benchmark for future competitive products, and to establish an aesthetic quality for a new ‘brand’ in the marketplace. |
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Design Award of the Year
