Laryngoscope

An anesthetist had noticed several problems that his industry had been facing while performing tracheotomies using traditional laryngoscopes. Laryngoscopes are used to help doctors intubate, but these are usually made using a hard stainless steel, with integrated lights that aren’t optimized for the procedure, frequently resulting in injuries to the patient. In addition, laryngoscopes are often difficult and expensive to sanitize.

The client challenged the Studio to create a user experience that was superior to other products in this category, developing a solution that could be a cost friendly, next-generation evolution of the laryngoscope. It had to be able to hold 150lbs of weight, illuminate the trachea, consider multiple "blades" or attachment options, and of course have optimal ergonomics for all involved.

The Studio approached the project by evaluating current laryngoscopes on the market and found that designs had barely changed for 100 years. We studied the ergonomics of the laryngoscope and the way doctors frequently interact with them, exploring a variety of shapes and attachment mechanisms for a means to fold the device for compact storage, increase strength, and improve ergonomics.

In the iteration process, we were able to integrate a light and a clear blade that can be seen through and also acts to channel the light, making it easier for doctors to see into the throat and allowing for quicker and more successful procedures. We were also able to recommend a strong plastic solution that would be rigid enough for demanding hospital application but softer than tooth enamel, drastically reducing the risk of dental injuries during intubation.

Our final product design is a a low cost, single use laryngoscope that can be factory sterilized and sealed, protecting patients from infection and ultimately eliminating the cost of sterilization entirely.