Behind every safe, reliable medical device lies a control system — the “invisible intelligence” that ensures the device performs consistently, accurately, and safely. From regulating drug infusion to synchronizing ventilators with patient breathing, control systems are the heartbeat of critical care technology.
For innovators, designing control systems poses unique challenges. Unlike in other industries, even small errors in a medical control loop can endanger patient safety. Devices must perform flawlessly under variable conditions, all while meeting stringent regulatory and usability requirements.
At Boston Engineering, our Control Systems Center of Excellence (COE) specializes in developing systems that combine precision, safety, and reliability. By integrating sensing, actuation, software, and redundancy, we design medical devices that clinicians and patients can trust — even in the most critical moments.
At Boston Engineering, DFX is a core part of creating values during our product development process. We focus on several key DFX areas that align with our expertise:
Learn more about Design for X (DFX) at Boston engineering: Boston Engineering Design for X
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Developing control systems for medical devices involves overcoming hurdles that go beyond typical engineering complexity.
Common challenges include:
Without robust control systems engineering, even well-designed devices can fail to meet safety and regulatory standards.
Boston Engineering’s Control Systems COE brings deep expertise in designing closed-loop, safety-critical control architectures that power today’s medical devices.
By combining these capabilities with our systems engineering discipline and other COEs, we ensure that control systems are not just precise, but reliable, manufacturable, and compliant.
Boston Engineering has applied advanced control systems to a wide range of medical technologies, including:
While some view AI as a potential job replacement threat, the reality is that these advanced capabilities are better positioned as “workforce multipliers” that will amplify the abilities of doctors, nurses, technicians and other medical professionals.
Our role:
The outcome:
Across projects, Boston Engineering’s Control Systems COE has helped clients achieve:
In healthcare, there is no margin for error. Devices must operate with precision, reliability, and safety — every time, in every environment. Control systems are at the core of that mission.
At Boston Engineering, we combine deep control systems expertise with our broader systems engineering discipline and Centers of Excellence to deliver devices clinicians and patients can trust. Whether you are developing infusion pumps, ventilators, or robotic systems, we design the control intelligence that ensures performance when it matters most.
With Boston Engineering as your partner, you gain more than an engineering service provider — you gain a team dedicated to delivering confidence in every critical moment.
In this eBook, we’ll dive into the real-world experiences of DFX subject matter expert John DePiano, exploring the common areas where existing product owners excel, as well as the key opportunities where targeted DFX support can drive major improvements.
Understanding the Importance of a DFX approach in medical device design & development
Applying Design for X (DFX) methodologies upfront in medical device development optimizes the entire lifecycle by improving manufacturability, testability, reliability, usability, and other critical characteristics. This avoids costly redesigns later on, facilitates high-quality products that satisfy customers, reduces manufacturing and service costs, and supports flexibility through modularity and platforms. The holistic perspective of DFX drives efficient, cost-effective delivery of successful products that provide competitive advantage. Investing in DFX early pays dividends across the entire product lifespan.
Do you offer training on DFX for your medical engineering teams?
Education is critical to effectively implement DFX principles. We provide training tailored to your engineers’ roles and product lines. This includes overall DFX methodology, deep dives into specific disciplines like design for reliability or manufacturability, and practical application workshops. Our hands-on approach combines real-world examples and case studies with tutorials on leading DFX software tools. The goal is building organizational DFX expertise and establishing repeatable processes that endure beyond individual projects. Investing in DFX knowledge pays dividends across your entire product portfolio.
Ready to Begin your next medical device DFX Project?
No matter the challenge, our team possesses the expertise in the engineering disciplines and technologies you need to bring your vision to life. Impossible Challenge? Try Us.
Impossible Challenge? Try Us.
Selecting a partner to help you complete your design project is a valuable option to reduce project duration and save money.
The Boston Engineering product development system encompasses DFX to ensure a smooth product launch and success in the marketplace. Boston Engineering has DFX knowledge and experience to address aspects and values of a product such as manufacturability, test, reliability, safety, serviceability, cost, and compliance with industry standards and government regulations.
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