In the past decade, robotics has moved from research labs to operating rooms, rehabilitation centers, and diagnostic suites. Robotics enables minimally invasive procedures, precision in motion, automation of repetitive tasks, and assistive technologies that restore independence.
Yet, for medical device innovators, integrating robotics into a clinical environment brings formidable challenges. Robotics must be safe, reliable, intuitive for clinicians, and compliant with strict regulatory standards. Devices must operate with exacting accuracy and repeatability — where even small errors could compromise patient outcomes.
At Boston Engineering, our Robotics Center of Excellence (COE) delivers the expertise to meet these challenges. By combining robotics with our broader systems engineering discipline, we create devices that integrate mechanics, electronics, software, and human-centered design into solutions that improve care and transform possibilities for patients.
The focus and discipline of DFX is a powerful tool if used as part of a broader strategic approach to developing product/process differentiation, and a sustainable advantage against competition. Involve Design for X in Strategy. Once your team has determined the focus of your strategy, place the focus of design on developing competitive advantage.
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
The following are illustrative examples of a potential product design decisions a company might make to take strategic advantage of the noted benefits of introducing a new product to market vs. updating an existing product. The cases are presented to evoke thoughts and questions around the potential business case for such decisions, and the reasoning behind each.
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Medical robotics is one of the most demanding fields in product development. Each system must not only perform with accuracy but also integrate into the clinician’s workflow and meet the highest safety standards.
Boston Engineering’s Robotics COE focuses on precision, control, and safety while embedding robotics within the broader medical device system. Through our systems engineering approach, we ensure robotics isn’t an isolated feature but a well-integrated element of the device architecture.
Key capabilities include:
Boston Engineering has applied robotics 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.
A medical innovator approached Boston Engineering to develop a robotic assistive device for patients with severe mobility impairments. The goal was to create a system that restored independence in performing daily activities while ensuring safety, reliability, and ease of use.
Our role:
Across projects, Boston Engineering’s Robotics COE has enabled innovators to achieve:
Robotics is more than a technical capability — it’s a driver of transformation in healthcare. By combining the precision and adaptability of robotics with the discipline of systems engineering, Boston Engineering helps innovators bring breakthrough devices to life.
Whether you are developing the next generation of surgical robots, automating diagnostics, or designing assistive technologies, our Robotics COE provides the expertise to deliver safe, effective, and scalable solutions.
At Boston Engineering, we don’t just build robots — we engineer systems that empower clinicians, improve patient outcomes, and redefine what’s possible in medical care.
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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