Visualization and Technology Company
Transitioning a battery-powered flexible videoscope, originally designed for law enforcement and security applications, into a medical-grade device for the ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) space. The endoscope needed to integrate with EMR (Electronic Medical Records) systems, stream video via Wi-Fi, and provide video recording capabilities for doctors’ reviews.
Our client sought to:
Adapt their existing device to meet stringent medical standards.
Ensure the device could stream video wirelessly and securely over at least 30 feet line-of-sight.
Incorporate video recording for later review and EMR integration.
Ensure the device was fully submersible to withstand rigorous cleaning cycles.
Enable wireless charging and firmware updates over Wi-Fi.
Recognizing Impact–Rhode Island’s proven expertise in firmware, hardware, and PC application development, the client entrusted us with this comprehensive redesign.
To meet the complex requirements, Impact ES–Rhode Island designed a system incorporating two custom units, multiple PCBs, and a tailored PC application:
Integrated circuitry to capture video from a 0.005 in2 camera.
Packaged video for wireless streaming to the base unit using a Wi-Fi Direct module, selected for its low latency, secure data transmission, and effective range.
Designed to be fully submersible, ensuring compliance with rigorous cleaning protocols.
Incorporated wireless charging capabilities.
Enabled firmware updates via Wi-Fi, ensuring the device remains current with medical technology advancements.
Combined a Windows single-board computer with a custom Linux SoC board.
Windows PC provided a familiar interface and supported the custom PC application.
The Linux SoC processed streaming video, enabling real-time picture-in-picture display during examinations.
Supported secure and reliable storage of captured images and videos, aligned with medical data security standards.
Implemented a unique ID confirmation process to ensure secure pairing of the correct endoscope.
Enabled intuitive operation for doctors, including pairing, stream display, and control of image and video storage.
Allowed doctors to save images or start/stop video recordings directly via buttons on the wireless endoscope.
Directed the Linux SoC to position the picture-in-picture feed appropriately on-screen during examinations.
Designed eight custom PCBs to support the electronics of the endoscope, charging dock, and processor box.
Established robust communication protocols between the Linux PCB and Windows PC, ensuring seamless operation.
Provided documentation and guidance to facilitate FDA approval.
The redesigned endoscope achieved medical- grade standards and full FDA approval, marking a significant milestone in advancing portable medical imaging technology. Doctors now have a portable, wireless tool that integrates with EMR systems and enhances patient care with advanced imaging capabilities. The device’s durable and innovative design ensures usability in demanding clinical environments while maintaining flexibility for future updates.
Collaboration between hardware, firmware, and software teams was critical to overcoming complex design challenges.
Leveraging Impact ES–Rhode Island’s expertise enabled the client to successfully transition their product into the medical market.
The final solution reflects the seamless integration of cutting-edge technology and user‐centric design.
