Mobile Cart Systems
Dialysis machine
Outset Medical - Fluid Motion Base
Mobile Cart Systems
Dialysis machine
Integration with Tablo
Assembly Video
Assembly video of fluidics base and mechanical interface to lock Tablo casters to base
Assembly video highlighting mechanical interface to lock Tablo casters to base
Instructional Video
Filter Changing Animation in Fluidics Drawer of Tablo Dialysis cart
Filter Changing Animation in Fluidics Drawer of Tablo Dialysis cart
Outset Medical
Tablo Dialysis Machine: Fluid Motion Base
We developed functional prototypes for the Tablo "Fluid Motion Base" and companion "Storage Drawer" in collaboration with manufacturing partner HUI, ensuring the new base looks integral to the original cart. Driven by clinical user studies and video analysis, the design targeted critical platform constraints—specifically optimizing console height, cartridge access, unit assembly, access to fluid couplings & water filtration, cable management, and overall mobility.
To overcome these challenges, we designed a safe methodology allowing a single user to roll and secure the heavy 300-lb cart onto the base. A unique mechanical interface rigidly locks the Tablo casters vertically to the base, while extra-large double swivel casters with dual-mode directional locks and built-in bumpers ensure effortless maneuverability through tight hospital corridors, over thresholds, and into compact parking spaces. Furthermore, elevating the overall operating height creates a significantly more ergonomic user experience for routine cartridge loading, screen interaction, and tubing routing.
The platform's final layout cleanly integrates utility management, diagnostics, and serviceability. It features a hardwired power cable, dedicated receptacle/switch, accessible electrical enclosure, and a clean hinged cover to conceal dual fluid connections. Real-time diagnostics are handled by external pressure gauges and a dedicated OLED display monitoring filter pressures, pressure drops, filter life, and pump status. Additionally, the chassis provides full structural support for an external Water Module and a high-frequency service drawer housing two cantilevered filters with an integrated drawer stop.
outsetmedical.com
Tablo+ Redesign (Concept)
Tablo+ Redesign (Concept)
Alongside the companion base units, we developed a comprehensive conceptual redesign of the Tablo+ dialysis cart, synthesizing field insights across clinical usability, ergonomics, and brand identity. The primary industrial design challenge centered on balancing advanced machine capabilities with intuitive ease of use. To address this, the project prioritized footprint optimization for tight clinical spaces, user interface adjustment for both seated and standing patients, and strategic visual management to balance necessary bloodline visibility with a clean, approachable "home-dialysis" aesthetic.
The new architectural layout features a compact, 3-fold enclosure that seamlessly integrates the lid, hood, and display into a cohesive form. When deployed, the fold-down lid converts into a dedicated clean workspace for prepping packaging and tubing, while the angled console and forward-mounted display dramatically improve user access and screen visibility. To streamline workflow and serviceability, we optimized the Hanson Port placements, designed a clip to hold up to six different filter sizes, and designed an ergonomic multi-functional handle that guides the lid while securing two 1-gallon utility jugs during transport.
User interaction was further refined through an optimized cartridge design featuring a reduced size, an integrated grip handle, and an intuitive alignment method paired with a new 4-point automatic latching mechanism. Finally, a semi-transparent housing design provides excellent visual clarity, highlighting critical fluidic components—including the pinch valves, flow sensors, drip chamber, and peristaltic pump—while ensuring clean, pinch-free tubing routing directly to the dialyzer and patient.
outsetmedical.com
Prototype of final Dialyzer Interface (Human Factors)
The filter clip tension, pivot point, and motion needed to be precisely tuned to provide easy access and sufficient tension to securely hold six different dialysis filters in place. The spring-loaded clip was designed to open while inserting the filters, enabling one-handed operation. (Filter diameter sizes range from 36.80mm up to 50.54mm)
The silicone hose exit points needed to be positioned with precise length to provide an ideal bend radius for storing the Hanson male ports (red & blue ports), while also allowing access to all 6 filters sizes.
Additional considerations included cartridge attachment, grip placement, and tubing routing management to prevent pinching of the tubing. The entire console was slightly tilted to provide optimal viewing and accessibility.
Prototype of final Dialyzer Interface (Human Factors)
