Digital Endoscopy ⸺ for PENTAX Medical
A digital solution for the market leader in endoscopic ultrasound.

Role: Team Lead · Product Design · Prototyping · User Research · Project Management

As head of the design team, the most exciting part for me was to transport a traditional, analogue control panel of an ultrasound system into a digital user interface. The challenge was to ensure that the elaborate interactions were still accessible for physicians, even though the complete functionality was made operable by touch gestures on an iPad.

Research

Our work encompassed an in-depth research phase, to understand and address the unique needs of the users. We immersed ourselves in medical settings, observing physicians with ultrasound systems and reviewing surgery footage. By identifying commonly used controls and their contexts, we established a solid foundation for transitioning to a touch-driven interface

Design Process

From initial concepts to final delivery, we focused on creating a user experience that was both intuitive and familiar to physicians. We validated every design decision in collaboration with medical professionals to ensure that the UI would fit seamlessly into their work processes.

Design System

We developed a design system to ensure that every element was cohesive, intuitive, and optimized for the touch-sensitive interface. By establishing a unified structure, we facilitated the smooth integration of future updates and ensured a consistent user experience specifically tailored for the iPad.

Iconography

We designed a set of icons that integrates seamlessly with the overall visual concept. Each icon is created with bold, minimalist shapes, embodying the core qualities of clarity and efficiency, essential in medical settings. 

Color

We opted for a dark background to enhance the display of ultrasound images and minimise visual fatigue during extended usage periods. The calming blue, chosen as the primary highlight, is complemented by deliberate splashes of strong colours that guide the user’s focus, ensuring both comfort and navigability.

Conclusion

The solution was designed to meet the specific needs of physicians, enhancing usability and efficiency while setting a new benchmark for user experience in endoscopic ultrasound technology.

Personally, this project was an exciting journey. Familiarizing myself with the medical context was both challenging and fulfilling, as it allowed me to contribute to a meaningful impact.