Reducing costs to produce a new probe coupling mechanism
We were approached by a client who was working with a leading ophthalmic cryosurgical system. They wanted us to develop an intuitive, easy to operate mechanism, for connecting and disconnecting a range of reusable and disposable cryosurgical probes, to and from the control console.
The client wanted a simple, elegant and safe system and wanted to reduce the manufacturing cost of the overall system. This required a change to the coupling for reusable cryogenic probes, and a completely new ‘quick release’ connection mechanism, for the console.
We worked closely with our client, to specify the exact functional requirements and cost reduction targets. We also had to work within very specific regulatory parameters, as we were working with a medical device.
A simple and safe probe coupling mechanism for the control console, was designed and worked within the existing space. No changes to the existing moulded system were needed and a new and simplified probe recognition system, only required small changes to the electronic system and control software.
We identified other potential cost saving opportunities which could be exploited either by design change, process simplification, or other operational means.
