Vision Tech
Shedding Light on Nasal Examinations
Examining a patient’s nose with a nasal speculum shouldn’t require a flashlight, a headlamp and a third hand. Vision Tech asked ManGo Product Design to rethink the classic nasal speculum for both adult and pediatric use, by integrating LED lighting directly into the instrument. The goal was simple: make nasal examinations easier, faster and more precise for doctors, while improving visibility for doctors and comfort for patients. By eliminating the need for external light sources, the new speculum is designed to simplify the doctor’s workflow during nasal examinations.
Designed for Sterilization
Integrating electronics into a medical instrument that must survive autoclave sterilization at 134°C is, unsurprisingly, not straightforward. Electronics and extreme heat are rarely friends. To solve this, ManGo developed a removable lighting module containing the LED, battery and circuit board. This compact module can be taken out for charging and removed before the instrument’s sterilizable components undergo autoclave sterilization, keeping the sensitive electronics separate.Acting as a miniature flashlight, the module uses a custom-designed light guide to evenly illuminate the nasal cavity. The entire instrument, including the switch, can be operated one-handed, leaving the other hand free for the actual examination or procedure.
A Friendlier Look for a Serious Tool
Traditional nasal speculums are usually made of stainless steel and have a clinical appearance. Vision Tech challenged ManGo to create something different, an instrument that still performs at a medical level, but looks and feels more approachable for both doctor and patient. The spring mechanism was fully integrated into the handle, resulting in a cleaner more refined appearance. Soft-touch plastics were added for improved grip and control, especially during precise movements. The result is a speculum that feels less cold and technical, without compromising functionality, proving that even medical instruments don’t have to look intimidating.
Tested, Proven and Ready for the Clinic
Using plastics in an autoclave environment required extensive validation. In ManGo’s workshop, dozens of materials were tested through repeated sterilization cycles to see how they performed in real-world conditions, not just on datasheets. Many materials that claimed to be autoclave-safe didn’t survive the reality of repeated high-temperature exposure. After rigorous testing, a suitable material was identified for the injection-molded components based on its performance during repeated sterilization cycles. Beyond the product design and engineering, ManGo also developed the user manual and packaging, delivering a complete, production-ready solution. The result is a durable, user-friendly and innovative medical instrument that quite literally puts a better light on everyday care.
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