cutting-edge surgical solutions in a cost-effective modular platform
Summit epitomizes the concept of bringing premium performance to a variety of markets in a cost-effective and intuitive platform. Summit takes a suite of high-cost single-use laparoscopic surgical tools and separates the higher price components into reusable base units, and lower-cost components into single-use disposables. This approach has the added benefit of providing a common interface over a variety of functions and tools. This reduces the cognitive burden and training for the surgeon, which is critically important in the complicated and high-stress environment of laparoscopic surgery.
Using modularity and transferring cost out of the disposable components, Summit is designed to increase technical capabilities of surgery, while driving down the cost of entry associated with traditional disposable platforms.
Summit is a unique approach to satisfy both advanced and developing markets. The need to convey its technical capabilities and premium nature through its look and feel was a critical factor.
In the development of Summit, my role ranged from establishing and validating the strategic vision, building a strong intellectual property fence, and the traditional aspects of Industrial Design such as concept generation, CAD development, and usability/ergonomic assessments.
Evolution of the Summit design continued through its development life. Market and engineering challenges required a flexible and ready approach to the design architecture.
In its final embodiment, all costly components were transferred to a reusable and rechargeable titanium handpiece. The need for a generator was eliminated, giving it tremendous value in developing regions. Only components with direct contact with patients in surgery were disposable.
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