SH800 /
SP6800
Comprehensive
medical solutions
Our vision is to support future medical advances through innovation.
Product development is just the start.
Comprehensive solutions improve research workflows themselves.
Interface Design
〈 SH800 / SP6800 〉
Auto setup streamlines workflows
Another inconvenience we observed was the array of complex settings configured initially. Making these systems easy and accurate for more researchers would also require a less daunting user interface (UI). That’s why we developed an easy, step-by-step adjustment guide in the form of a wizard, as widely used in Sony consumer electronics. Narrowing down essential functions or operations on each screen and presenting information visually makes setup intuitive, even without a dedicated operator. Meanwhile, operating accuracy is improved by QR code-based chip verification, which confirms that the correct chip has been scanned with the computer’s camera.
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Obtain
a QR-coded chip -
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Scan the QR code
with a webcam -
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Settings are auto configured
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Instantly ready
for measurement
UI design reinforces
color meanings
In cell research that relies on fluorescent dyes, each color holds special significance. That’s why gray sets the tone for system software. Vivid colors in charts of analysis results present each dye clearly. Similarly, a straightforward approach was taken to function icons, which are immediately recognizable. There’s also an elegance to the chart layout, which follows a specific pattern. And because charts can be pasted into research articles without special editing before submission, the software also streamlines research workflows.
Communication Design
〈 SH800 / SP6800 〉
Conveniently uncolored
Colors with special significance are everywhere in research labs. Besides handling fluorescent dyes, researchers must recognize colors of reagents and biohazard warnings. With these environments in mind, we sought distinctive packaging in neutral tones. The supplies themselves are depicted as large as possible on boxes, along with relevant numerical values. From any angle, it’s clear what the boxes hold, which minimizes the potential for human error, such as taking the wrong reagent. The packaging is practical and safe, as determined by many simulations of lab conditions.
A coordinated image,
embodying advanced systems
Sony is a relative newcomer in the field of medicine. We needed to distinguish ourselves from competitors, so that Sony products and values in this field would be immediately clear. After careful thought, we chose silver—representative of the product line—as the basic color for products and packaging, and in brochures and online. Communication design is therefore consistent, with this color presented in ways optimized for each purpose. These refined silver hues not only suit cutting-edge research labs but also embody the spirit of innovation found in these advanced systems.
Sony booths at trade shows for medical and research equipment are entirely white, which creates a clean, simple space to showcase the systems. We take the same approach to exhibition design all around the world, to coordinate our message. This consistent communication design helps us forge stronger ties with medical researchers.
that’s effective
in new markets
Flow cytometry systems were also new territory for us in communication design, so on-site observation and interviews were instrumental in gaining an understanding that later helped us satisfy needs at various customer touchpoints. We hope that the consistent visual image you see makes the values that Sony stands for—values you can trust—clear. And we would be thrilled if the systems contribute to advances and discoveries in the active field of cell analysis and research, and ultimately help physicians.
Saito, designer
Research equipment must keep pace
with ever-expanding medical frontiers.
These flow cytometry systems are
only the start of Sony innovation in this field.
May these small steps lead to giant leaps
in medicine.
Note: For research use only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
in research to the fore
Colors of fluorescent dyes are critically important in the UI of flow cytometry systems. These essential colors would fade into the background if we use color as a decorative element in colorful screen design. Especially for this spectral analyzer—which separates 32-channel PMT emissions into individual spectra to offer unprecedented cell imaging—ingenuity was required to make the subtly different hues easy to distinguish. To us, it would be wonderful if the equipment led to new discoveries in cell research and advances in medicine.
Miyazawa, designer