Ergonomic and intuitive design for life-threatening situations

Ambu sought assistance from Design-People to tackle the ergonomic and user interface aspects of the product aScope 3, a handheld single-patient video scope designed for visual guidance during intubations. Focusing on the components outside the patient area, the design team shaped a new handle, emphasizing usability and design coherence.


aScope 3 is operated by doctors and anesthesiologists and is frequently used in life-threatening situations that requires speed and precision, due to the diverse anatomy of airways. Knowing these intubations can be very challenging, the design-team set out to investigate use scenarios, to ensure a design that strengthens and guides the operation.
By observing real use scenarios with patients and the existing device, the design team, combined with self-tests in a test lab, could map out the different user journeys, including crucial pain points, challenges, and opportunities. This resulted in a solid foundation for Design-People to design from.



Crafting the concepts, Design-People explored various directions regarding shape, size, texture, and placement of physical controls. This was done thorugh sketches and real-size mock-ups, that was tested and reviewed in sessions with Ambu and experienced users.
With focus on ergonomics, user-friendliness, and a commitment to reliability and hygiene, the new aScope 3 design resulted in a versatile and intuitive solution for healthcare professionals. Design-People managed to uphold a quality feel and high design standard, while ensuring a low production cost, for the single-use product, securing market competition. The design has since been used as a flagship, utilizing the design for new products in the product series.