Reimagining vaccine delivery for human use.
VGX approached RKS to transform an animal only DNA vaccine delivery system into a safe, FDA approvable platform fit for human use. The core challenge: ease clinician handling, mask the visual impact of needles and electrification, and reduce patient anxiety, all while maintaining high performance electroporation and rigorous sterilization standards.
Research Insights & Discovery
Key Outputs
- Clinical and patient persona mapping
- Emotional journey maps revealing anxiety triggers
- Opportunity brief emphasizing hidden needle delivery, simplicity, and empathetic feedback
RKS conducted ethnographic studies with clinicians and patients, understanding emotional triggers and workflows. Using our Psycho‑Aesthetics® framework, we placed the product in the enriched quadrant, focusing on non threatening, intuitive control. Pain points identified included fear of needles and lack of confidence in multi step electroporation.
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
- Ergonomic CAD models emphasizing comfort and control
- Concealed needle/shroud integration
- Visual design language projecting calm and precision
Inovio was designed to be as user friendly as possible, featuring a one button operation and an ambidextrous design. Safety was paramount, with a disposable component ensuring the well being of both the practitioner and the patient. Our design approach focused on creating a soothing environment with ergonomic shapes and friendly colors, turning a potentially tense situation into a comfortable and effortless experience.
UI/UX Design Development
Key Outputs
- Information Architecture
- Touchscreen Interface Design
- Custom Iconography & Visual System
- Interactive Prototypes
Clinician interfaces, both on device and via connected software, feature clear step by step visuals and status feedback for each stage of electroporation. Visual cues help build procedural confidence and reduce errors. Our task was to make it consumer friendly, hiding its potential scariness while prioritizing the comfort of both clinicians and patients.
Engineering Validation
Key Outputs
- Functional prototypes combining mechanics, electronics, and firmware
- Tool ready CAD/CAM data and component spec documentation
- Vendor coordination and manufacturing readiness strategy
RKS aligned mechanical components, needles, motors, shuttles, with back end electronics and firmware for dose delivery and capacitive sensing. Developed ambidextrous handpieces and support units to ensure reliability and scalable manufacturing.
Key Outcomes and Results
Key Accomplishments
- Platform designed for FDA approval and human clinical use
- Elevated clinician confidence through guided workflows and visual feedback
- Positioned Inovio/VGX for scalable, empathetic deployment in human vaccine programs
We strived to humanize the device, maximizing its potential for the best possible experience. This project presented both challenges and rewards, as we dedicated countless months to bring Inovio to life. The journey of evolution and refinement has led us to this proud moment, where we can showcase the culmination of our efforts. We thrive on tackling unconventional and complex tasks, constantly pushing boundaries to create transformative solutions.
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