Reinventing Antiquated Design

At the product design firm Frog, a redesign of the speculum is in the works. After nearly 150 years, this tool (used by OB/GYNs in gynecological exams to inspect the cervix) is finally receiving a much needed design update. The original design by physician James Sims in the 1840s has become the medical standard for these exams, yet the design is extremely outdated. Existing speculums are made of stainless steel or plastic and look like a torture device from nightmares.

Hailey Stewart an industrial designer is continuing to iterate on the concept, the most notable changes being a silicone covering, reduction of the noise from the mechanism, and a triple prong (triangular shape) rather than a typical two prong design. All of these changes are intended to make the experience less frightening to the patient, as the check-up often is cold, clinical, and scary.

A more interesting question that this brings up in design, are the endless possibilities of fixing outdated products, innovative for their era but lacking of fit in today's world. Why would a problem where many people agree "we should fix that" never get addressed. Human refusal to change will need to be just as much a consideration in design as any aesthetic challenge.

For more info about the project visit: https://www.wired.com/story/the-speculum-finally-gets-a-modern-redesign/