Bridging cutting edge proteomics with lab ready usability.
Existing high resolution protein sequencing systems are bulky, complex, and inaccessible to most labs. Quantum‑Si needed a sleek, intuitive, and scalable platform to make single amino acid resolution proteomics practical for routine lab use.
Research Insights & Discovery
Key Outputs
- Psycho-Aesthetics® 2.0 Map
- Benchmarking
- Opportunity Areas & Design Criteria
- How We Used Psycho-Aesthetics™ to Identify Unique Opportunities in the Project.
In the initial research phase, our team at RKS Design conducted an in depth analysis of laboratory workflows and proteomics instrumentation, focusing on the needs of researchers and lab technicians. We identified key usability challenges, including workflow inefficiencies, user interface complexity, and hardware ergonomics. Through user interviews and competitive benchmarking, we uncovered opportunities for improved system configuration, interaction design, and portability.These insights helped us define the optimal balance between advanced technology and intuitive usability, ensuring that QuantumSi would deliver a seamless research experience.
How We Used Psycho-Aesthetics™ to Identify Unique Opportunities in the Project.
Using our proprietary Psycho-Aesthetics® 2.0 framework, we conducted in-depth interviews and ethnographic observation in diverse lab settings. We identified key emotional and usability pain points, such as intimidation with complex interfaces, workspace clutter, and trust in precision. These insights guided both the form and interface strategy, ensuring approachability and confidence in operation.
Industrial Design Concept Development
Key Outputs
- CAD and form studies optimized for bench footprint and cooling
- Ergonomic housing with intuitive access panels
- Exterior finishes and material treatments
The design phase was driven by a commitment to seamless functionality and modern aesthetics. At RKS Design, we applied our Psycho-Aesthetics methodology to ensure that the QuantumSi Platinum Pro delivers an intuitive and engaging user experience. The product’s sleek, compact form was designed to maximize efficiency and minimize lab space usage, while the large touchscreen interface enhances usability. Every detail, from component layout to interaction design, was carefully crafted to support precision driven workflows, making the QuantumSi system both visually compelling and functionally optimized.
UI/UX Design Development
Key Outputs
- Interactive UI wireframes
- User tested prototypes
- Custom Iconography & Visual System
The touchscreen interface streamlines user flow, from system setup and sample loading to sequencing and result export. Feedback cues, streamlined menus, and visual clarity empower lab staff to operate with confidence.
Engineering Validation
Key Outputs
- Engineering prototypes with functional internal architecture
- Production ready CAD/CAM models
RKS Design collaborated closely with QuantumSi to bring the Platinum Pro to life. This involved refining the industrial design, optimizing the UI/UX, and engineering prototypes for rigorous testing. We worked alongside manufacturing partners to ensure seamless production scalability, validating every aspect of material selection, hardware integration, and interface performance. The result was a cutting edge proteomics system that combines innovation, usability, and manufacturability, setting a new standard in single molecule protein sequencing technology.
Key Outcomes and Results
Key Accomplishments
- Platinum Pro represents Quantum‑Si’s flagship commercial platform.
- Reinforced Quantum‑Si’s position as a leader in next generation proteomics instrumentation.
The Quantum‑Si Platinum Pro is a testament to RKS Design’s ability to unify scientific rigor with emotional resonance. By harmonizing human centered insights, sleek engineering, intuitive UI, and purposeful branding, the platform makes high resolution proteomics accessible, efficient, and aspirational, setting a new standard in laboratory instrument design.
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