Key Innovation
By integrating algorithms to compensate for variable tissue morphologies within a compact handheld form factor, we unlocked reliable, real-time StO₂ measurement directly inside the surgical theater.
Real-Time Tissue Oxygenation Status
Client
ViOptix
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
ViOptix collaborated with Triple Ring to design and develop the Intra.Ox™, a non-invasive, handheld tissue oxygenation monitor designed for use inside the surgical theater. The device enables real-time measurement of tissue oxygenation, helping surgeons assess tissue viability and make informed decisions during procedures.
By combining optical sensing technology with advanced algorithms and a portable handheld design, the system supports improved surgical workflows and enhances clinical decision-making during tissue transfer procedures.
Challenge
ViOptix sought to develop a quantitative tissue oxygenation monitor capable of delivering real-time, highly sensitive measurements in a surgical environment. The system needed to be easy to use, reliable, and capable of generating unlimited readings throughout a surgical case.
Key technical challenges included:
- Designing an easy-to-use multi-wavelength tissue oximeter
- Developing smart algorithms to compensate for variable tissue morphologies
- Creating a compact handheld form factor suitable for surgical use
- Supporting reusable packaging and surgical workflows
- Ensuring consistent performance across varying tissue conditions
In addition, the system needed to accurately capture oxygen concentration in resected tissue while minimizing artifacts caused by surrounding tissue components.
Real-Time Tissue Oxygenation Status
Overview
ViOptix collaborated with Triple Ring to design and develop the Intra.Ox™, a non-invasive, handheld tissue oxygenation monitor designed for use inside the surgical theater. The device enables real-time measurement of tissue oxygenation, helping surgeons assess tissue viability and make informed decisions during procedures.
By combining optical sensing technology with advanced algorithms and a portable handheld design, the system supports improved surgical workflows and enhances clinical decision-making during tissue transfer procedures.
Challenge
ViOptix sought to develop a quantitative tissue oxygenation monitor capable of delivering real-time, highly sensitive measurements in a surgical environment. The system needed to be easy to use, reliable, and capable of generating unlimited readings throughout a surgical case.
Key technical challenges included:
- Designing an easy-to-use multi-wavelength tissue oximeter
- Developing smart algorithms to compensate for variable tissue morphologies
- Creating a compact handheld form factor suitable for surgical use
- Supporting reusable packaging and surgical workflows
- Ensuring consistent performance across varying tissue conditions
In addition, the system needed to accurately capture oxygen concentration in resected tissue while minimizing artifacts caused by surrounding tissue components.
Client
ViOptix
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring and ViOptix worked side-by-side to invent subsystem- and system-level solutions that enabled reliable real-time tissue oxygenation monitoring. The development effort spanned concept generation through clinical validation, with a strong emphasis on modeling, algorithm design, and usability.
Triple Ring applied deep clinical and technical expertise to accelerate development while supporting the needs of a virtual startup environment. Complex modeling techniques, including Monte Carlo simulations, were used to evaluate optical performance and optimize system behavior early in the design process.
Engineering efforts focused on:
- Designing multi-wavelength optical sensing systems capable of detecting tissue oxygenation levels
- Developing algorithms that compensated for variability in tissue characteristics
- Optimizing handheld system architecture to support surgical usability
- Validating measurement accuracy across simulated clinical environments
Outcome
The ViOptix Intra.Ox technology received FDA clearance after demonstrating its ability to produce accurate, instantaneous estimates of percent saturated oxygen (StO₂) without requiring capital equipment or dye injection.
The device is now used during tissue transfer surgeries to support real-time assessment of tissue viability, enabling earlier intervention and improving both clinical and financial outcomes. The program progressed from concept to clinical validation and FDA 510(k) clearance in approximately 18 months, demonstrating the efficiency of the collaborative development approach.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined advanced optical modeling, Monte Carlo simulation, algorithm development, and user-centered device design to bring a first-of-its-kind handheld tissue oxygenation monitor from concept to FDA clearance in just 18 months.
Jeremy and Nick collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring and ViOptix on this project.
Nick Hawson
Medical Device Strategy & Program Leadership
With 25 years spanning engineering, program leadership, and innovation consulting, Nick has helped bring groundbreaking medical technologies to market for companies ranging from early-stage startups to global blue-chip firms.
Jeremy Ford, PhD
Biomedical Optics & Physiological Sensing
Dr. Jeremy Ford brings a decade of biomedical optics expertise — from tissue-illumination systems and physiological sensing to optical-thermal simulation and neural inhibition — backed by a Vanderbilt PhD and extensive peer-reviewed research.
Key Innovation
By using low-latency machine vision and adaptive robotic control, we made it possible to perform precise, repeatable cosmetic procedures safely in proximity to one of the body's most sensitive structures.
Precision Aesthetic Robotics
Client
LUUM
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
LUUM partnered with Triple Ring to develop a robotic system designed to automate the application of eyelash extensions with high precision, safety, and consistency. The system integrates machine vision and robotics technologies to support accurate positioning and controlled interaction near sensitive human anatomy.
Triple Ring developed the machine vision subsystem and contributed industrial design concepts that supported both technical performance and user comfort.
Challenge
The system needed to safely perform highly precise procedures near the human eye while maintaining responsiveness to client movement. Low-latency perception and control were required to support real-time adjustments and maintain safe interaction.
The system also needed to support accurate perception across diverse users, including a wide range of skin tones and eyelash characteristics.
Precision Aesthetic Robotics
Overview
LUUM partnered with Triple Ring to develop a robotic system designed to automate the application of eyelash extensions with high precision, safety, and consistency. The system integrates machine vision and robotics technologies to support accurate positioning and controlled interaction near sensitive human anatomy.
Triple Ring developed the machine vision subsystem and contributed industrial design concepts that supported both technical performance and user comfort.
Challenge
The system needed to safely perform highly precise procedures near the human eye while maintaining responsiveness to client movement. Low-latency perception and control were required to support real-time adjustments and maintain safe interaction.
The system also needed to support accurate perception across diverse users, including a wide range of skin tones and eyelash characteristics.
Client
LUUM
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring applied expertise in imaging, robotics, and industrial design to develop a machine vision system capable of guiding robotic motion with high precision and responsiveness.
Key development activities included:
- Developing machine vision algorithms capable of tracking fine features in three-dimensional space
- Designing perception systems that responded rapidly to client movement
- Integrating redundant safety features to support safe operation near sensitive anatomy
- Creating industrial design concepts that improved comfort and promoted user confidence
Outcome
Triple Ring delivered a fully integrated machine vision subsystem and industrial design framework supporting LUUM’s robotic eyelash application platform.
The system enabled consistent and efficient placement of eyelash extensions while maintaining high standards of safety and supporting reliable performance across diverse users.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team applied machine vision, optical engineering, robotic control systems, and industrial design expertise to develop a precision robotic platform capable of safely automating eyelash extension application near sensitive human anatomy.
Todd and Keith collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring and LUUM on this project.
Todd Harris, PhD
Physics & Optical Science
Dr. Todd Harris applies expertise in optics and imaging physics to the development of advanced sensing and illumination technologies. His work combines optical modeling with system design, helping teams translate complex physical principles into dependable, high-performance solutions.
Keith Nishihara, PhD
Physics & Optical Science
Dr. Keith Nishihara works in computer vision and image-based system development, transforming advanced algorithms into practical hardware and software solutions. His work supports applications ranging from medical imaging to real-time recognition systems, helping teams solve complex visual and spatial challenges.
Key Innovation
By coupling high-speed laser-based optical imaging with machine learning workflows, we compressed oncology tissue analysis timelines from days to minutes — directly inside the OR.
Intra-Operative Tissue Pathology
Client
BlackLight Surgical
Core Disciplines
Overview
BlackLight Surgical engaged Triple Ring to develop a high-speed biochemical imaging platform designed for intra-operative tissue analysis. The system leveraged picosecond pulsing laser technology and machine learning workflows to enable rapid tissue identification during surgical procedures.
The resulting platform supports real-time clinical decision making by allowing clinicians to distinguish between normal and diseased tissue directly in the operating suite.
Challenge
The system required integration of advanced optical imaging technology capable of performing rapid biochemical analysis during surgery. Reliable performance was required across demanding clinical environments and complex workflows.
Delivering this capability required precise integration of optical, mechanical, software, and machine learning systems into a clinically deployable architecture.
Intra-Operative Tissue Pathology
Overview
BlackLight Surgical engaged Triple Ring to develop a high-speed biochemical imaging platform designed for intra-operative tissue analysis. The system leveraged picosecond pulsing laser technology and machine learning workflows to enable rapid tissue identification during surgical procedures.
The resulting platform supports real-time clinical decision making by allowing clinicians to distinguish between normal and diseased tissue directly in the operating suite.
Challenge
The system required integration of advanced optical imaging technology capable of performing rapid biochemical analysis during surgery. Reliable performance was required across demanding clinical environments and complex workflows.
Delivering this capability required precise integration of optical, mechanical, software, and machine learning systems into a clinically deployable architecture.
Client
BlackLight Surgical
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring assembled multidisciplinary engineering and scientific teams to design and integrate the imaging platform using structured development and validation methodologies.
Technical execution focused on:
- Integrating laser-based optical imaging technologies capable of rapid tissue analysis
- Developing machine learning workflows that supported real-time tissue classification
- Using simulation and modeling tools to guide system design and performance optimization
- Establishing ISO 13485-compliant design and documentation processes
Outcome
Triple Ring delivered a fully integrated intra-operative biochemical imaging platform supporting clinical studies and real-time tissue visualization.
The system was developed to ISO 13485 standards and documented within a Quality Management System transferred to BlackLight Surgical, enabling deployment of advanced intra-operative imaging workflows.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined high-speed laser optical imaging, machine learning, mechanical engineering, and quality systems expertise to develop a fully integrated intra-operative tissue analysis platform capable of distinguishing healthy from diseased tissue in real time.
Todd, Cameran, and Shehadeh collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring and BlackLight Surgical on this project.
Todd Harris, PhD
Physics & Optical Science
Dr. Todd Harris applies expertise in optics and imaging physics to the development of advanced sensing and illumination technologies. His work combines optical modeling with system design, helping teams translate complex physical principles into dependable, high-performance solutions.
Cameran Casale
Bioengineering
Cameran Casale contributes to the development of imaging, microfluidic, and diagnostic technologies across multidisciplinary programs. Her work supports system integration and testing efforts, helping teams refine complex devices for reliable performance in research and clinical environments.
Shehadeh Dajani
Aerospace & Mechanical Engineering
Shehadeh Dajani supports the development of safety-critical embedded systems used in regulated medical technologies. His work spans software and system integration across feasibility, clinical, and production stages, helping ensure reliable performance throughout the development lifecycle.
Key Innovation
By translating Monte Carlo radiation physics into an intuitive cloud-based platform, we moved sterilization planning from a late-stage liability to an early-stage design input.
Design for Sterilization (DFS)
Client
Dose Insight
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
Dose Insight partnered with Triple Ring to develop Design for Sterilization (DFS), a simulation platform designed to support early-stage sterilization planning in medical device development. The system leverages Monte Carlo simulation technology to model radiation dose distribution and guide sterilization strategies before physical prototypes are built.
The platform enables engineers to evaluate sterilization performance directly from CAD models, supporting faster development timelines and reducing reliance on late-stage empirical testing.
Challenge
Medical device sterilization validation is often addressed late in the product development process, after devices have been fully designed and manufactured. When sterilization issues arise at that stage, they can introduce significant costs, delays, and redesign requirements.
The goal was to determine whether advanced computer modeling could enable sterilization strategy development earlier in the design cycle. This required creating accurate Monte Carlo simulation tools that were powerful enough for complex modeling, yet intuitive enough for non-expert users to operate effectively.
Design for Sterilization (DFS)
Overview
Dose Insight partnered with Triple Ring to develop Design for Sterilization (DFS), a simulation platform designed to support early-stage sterilization planning in medical device development. The system leverages Monte Carlo simulation technology to model radiation dose distribution and guide sterilization strategies before physical prototypes are built.
The platform enables engineers to evaluate sterilization performance directly from CAD models, supporting faster development timelines and reducing reliance on late-stage empirical testing.
Challenge
Medical device sterilization validation is often addressed late in the product development process, after devices have been fully designed and manufactured. When sterilization issues arise at that stage, they can introduce significant costs, delays, and redesign requirements.
The goal was to determine whether advanced computer modeling could enable sterilization strategy development earlier in the design cycle. This required creating accurate Monte Carlo simulation tools that were powerful enough for complex modeling, yet intuitive enough for non-expert users to operate effectively.
Client
Dose Insight
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring developed a simulation-driven platform that integrates advanced radiation modeling with user-friendly software workflows. The system enables users to simulate radiation sterilization scenarios directly from digital models, allowing teams to refine designs before committing to costly manufacturing steps.
Development focused on:
- Applying Monte Carlo simulation techniques to predict radiation dose distribution
- Designing user-friendly graphical interfaces that enabled early-stage analysis
- Building scalable cloud infrastructure capable of supporting large computational workloads
- Validating platform performance across multiple sterilization technologies
Outcome
The DFS platform significantly shortened medical device development cycles by enabling sterilization strategies to be implemented early in the design process. The system provides precise radiation dose mapping for complex medical devices, allowing teams to evaluate sterilization performance before physical testing.
By enabling iterative design refinement without extensive prototyping, the platform reduced development costs and minimized the need for expensive late-stage testing. The resulting technology established a validated approach to integrating sterilization planning into early product design workflows.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined Monte Carlo simulation, applied radiation physics, software engineering, and cloud infrastructure expertise to develop a platform that enables medical device teams to validate sterilization strategies directly from CAD models — before a single prototype is built.
Daniel and Tobias collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring and Dose Insight on this project.
Daniel Badali, PhD
Optics & Applied Physics
Dr. Daniel Badali brings deep expertise in advanced algorithms, optics, and radiation physics. His work bridges software and hardware, enabling complex simulation, imaging, and sterilization technologies that help turn sophisticated concepts into reliable medical solutions.
Tobias Funk, PhD
Experimental Physics & Instrumentation
Dr. Tobias Funk develops advanced instrumentation that applies ionizing radiation to scientific and medical challenges. His work spans imaging, simulation, and system design, helping translate complex physical principles into practical technologies used in real-world environments.
Key Innovation
By solving for real-world interferents at the miniaturization stage, we produced a field-deployable monitor that performs where benchtop instruments cannot.
Ocean Microplastics Monitor
Client
Various
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
Triple Ring supported the development of a portable microplastics monitoring system designed to measure plastic particle concentrations in aqueous environmental samples. The system was developed to enable field-based quantification of microplastics and support environmental research initiatives.
The resulting platform integrates particle detection and separation technologies into a miniaturized unit capable of replacing larger laboratory-based instrumentation while maintaining measurement accuracy under real-world conditions.
Challenge
Environmental researchers required a field-deployable system capable of accurately detecting and quantifying microplastics in complex environmental samples. Traditional benchtop instruments were not suitable for field use due to size, cost, and sensitivity to environmental conditions.
The system needed to function reliably in the presence of common interferents such as air bubbles, biological materials, sand, and other particulate matter. Achieving consistent performance under these variable conditions required robust system integration and miniaturization.
Ocean Microplastics Monitor
Overview
Triple Ring supported the development of a portable microplastics monitoring system designed to measure plastic particle concentrations in aqueous environmental samples. The system was developed to enable field-based quantification of microplastics and support environmental research initiatives.
The resulting platform integrates particle detection and separation technologies into a miniaturized unit capable of replacing larger laboratory-based instrumentation while maintaining measurement accuracy under real-world conditions.
Challenge
Environmental researchers required a field-deployable system capable of accurately detecting and quantifying microplastics in complex environmental samples. Traditional benchtop instruments were not suitable for field use due to size, cost, and sensitivity to environmental conditions.
The system needed to function reliably in the presence of common interferents such as air bubbles, biological materials, sand, and other particulate matter. Achieving consistent performance under these variable conditions required robust system integration and miniaturization.
Client
Various
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring collaborated with research partners to integrate sensing technologies into a compact and ruggedized platform capable of supporting field-based environmental monitoring. Engineering efforts focused on miniaturizing complex instrumentation while maintaining detection accuracy across diverse environmental samples.
Technical work included:
- Designing miniaturized detection systems that replaced benchtop instrumentation
- Developing algorithms to distinguish plastics from environmental interferents
- Integrating sampling and analysis components into a portable architecture
- Validating system performance under field-relevant conditions
Outcome
Triple Ring delivered a portable microplastics monitoring system capable of operating outside traditional laboratory environments. The system successfully demonstrated reliable particle detection and measurement in real-world environmental conditions.
The field-ready platform enabled successful demonstrations to research partners and funding organizations, supporting ongoing efforts to advance environmental monitoring technologies and improve understanding of microplastic pollution.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined miniaturized sensing system design, particle detection and separation technologies, and ruggedized hardware engineering to develop a portable microplastics monitor capable of replacing laboratory instrumentation in real-world field environments.
Erick and Sheila collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring on this project.
Erick Blankenberg
Electro-Mechanical Systems Engineering
Erick Blankenberg contributes to the development of electro-mechanical systems with a focus on controls and optimization. His work supports software and hardware integration for imaging and instrumentation technologies, helping teams refine system performance through coordinated design and testing.
Sheila Hemami, PhD
Electrical Engineering & Enviromental Sciences
Dr. Sheila Hemami brings interdisciplinary teams together to develop technologies that address complex environmental and healthcare challenges. Her work focuses on early-stage innovation and cross-sector collaboration, helping transform emerging ideas into solutions that are practical, deployable, and sustainable.
Key Innovation
By taking a simulation-driven approach to x-ray source and robotic integration, we accelerated a novel intraoperative radiation therapy system from concept to FDA clearance.
Robotic Radiation Therapy
Client
Empyrean Medical Systems
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
Empyrean Medical Systems worked with Triple Ring to design and develop a compact, robotically guided intra-operative radiation therapy device. The system was engineered to deliver targeted radiation therapy within surgical environments while maintaining a strong focus on usability and patient-centered design.
The resulting platform combined robotic guidance, precision radiation delivery, and mobile system architecture to support flexible clinical workflows and improve intra-operative treatment capabilities.
Challenge
Empyrean required development of a compact, mobile radiation therapy system capable of delivering low-energy radiation with precise beam directionality during surgical procedures. The system needed to maintain high performance standards while remaining easy to operate within the constraints of clinical environments.
In addition to performance requirements, the platform required integration of multiple complex subsystems, including custom x-ray sources, beam steering electronics, and robotic positioning components. The development effort also required preparation of a complete design package supporting regulatory submission.
Robotic Radiation Therapy
Overview
Empyrean Medical Systems worked with Triple Ring to design and develop a compact, robotically guided intra-operative radiation therapy device. The system was engineered to deliver targeted radiation therapy within surgical environments while maintaining a strong focus on usability and patient-centered design.
The resulting platform combined robotic guidance, precision radiation delivery, and mobile system architecture to support flexible clinical workflows and improve intra-operative treatment capabilities.
Challenge
Empyrean required development of a compact, mobile radiation therapy system capable of delivering low-energy radiation with precise beam directionality during surgical procedures. The system needed to maintain high performance standards while remaining easy to operate within the constraints of clinical environments.
In addition to performance requirements, the platform required integration of multiple complex subsystems, including custom x-ray sources, beam steering electronics, and robotic positioning components. The development effort also required preparation of a complete design package supporting regulatory submission.
Client
Empyrean Medical Systems
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring collaborated with Empyrean throughout the full product development lifecycle, from concept generation through system integration and clinical validation. The engineering effort focused on delivering precise radiation delivery capabilities while maintaining usability and manufacturability.
Development priorities included:
- Designing custom x-ray source technologies supporting 3D beam directionality
- Applying Monte Carlo simulations to validate radiation delivery performance
- Integrating robotic motion systems supporting accurate positioning
- Preparing documentation supporting FDA regulatory submission
Outcome
Triple Ring delivered a fully integrated radiation therapy system that was verified, clinically validated, and submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for 510(k) clearance. The resulting platform supported regulatory approval and demonstrated reliable clinical performance.
Following regulatory submission, the system design was successfully transferred to manufacturing and launched into the market. The completed platform enabled advancement of intra-operative radiation therapy capabilities and supported commercialization of the robotic radiation delivery system.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined radiation physics, custom x-ray source development, robotic systems integration, and regulatory engineering expertise to deliver a fully verified, FDA-submitted intra-operative radiation therapy platform from concept through market launch.
Chris and Barry collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring and Empyrean Medical Systems on this project.
Chris Mitchell, PhD
Bio and Electrical Engineering & Program Management
Dr. Chris Mitchell brings deep experience leading multidisciplinary teams developing complex imaging and medical device systems. His work focuses on guiding technical programs from concept through implementation, helping translate advanced technologies into reliable, real-world solutions.
Barry Wood
Biomedical & Mechanical Engineering
Barry Wood develops mechanical and biomedical systems with a focus on design and performance analysis. His work supports the creation of robust solutions for complex applications, contributing to dependable system function from concept through implementation.
Key Innovation
By decoupling x-ray source and detector motion from a fixed gantry architecture, we unlocked a new imaging design space — enabling full 3D breast imaging at ultra-low dose with expanded anatomical coverage.
User-Centric Breast Imaging
Client
Malcova
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
Malcova engaged Triple Ring to redesign and advance a novel breast imaging system capable of delivering full 3D imaging at ultra-low radiation dose while improving patient comfort. The system was designed to expand anatomical coverage beyond what is achievable with standard breast CT technologies.
The resulting platform introduced a gantry-free imaging architecture that enabled flexible source and detector motion, supporting advanced imaging capabilities and improved patient-centered workflows.
Challenge
Malcova developed an early prototype demonstrating the potential for improved breast imaging performance and patient experience. However, the prototype required a comprehensive redesign to support full functionality, human testing, and eventual regulatory submission.
Unlike conventional CT systems that rely on fixed gantry configurations, Malcova’s system required independent movement of the x-ray source and detector to achieve full 3D imaging. This architecture introduced complex synchronization challenges that directly impacted image quality and system reliability. Addressing these challenges required advanced modeling, precise engineering, and deep domain expertise in robotics and x-ray imaging.
User-Centric Breast Imaging
Overview
Malcova engaged Triple Ring to redesign and advance a novel breast imaging system capable of delivering full 3D imaging at ultra-low radiation dose while improving patient comfort. The system was designed to expand anatomical coverage beyond what is achievable with standard breast CT technologies.
The resulting platform introduced a gantry-free imaging architecture that enabled flexible source and detector motion, supporting advanced imaging capabilities and improved patient-centered workflows.
Challenge
Malcova developed an early prototype demonstrating the potential for improved breast imaging performance and patient experience. However, the prototype required a comprehensive redesign to support full functionality, human testing, and eventual regulatory submission.
Unlike conventional CT systems that rely on fixed gantry configurations, Malcova’s system required independent movement of the x-ray source and detector to achieve full 3D imaging. This architecture introduced complex synchronization challenges that directly impacted image quality and system reliability. Addressing these challenges required advanced modeling, precise engineering, and deep domain expertise in robotics and x-ray imaging.
Client
Malcova
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring applied expertise in robotics, x-ray imaging, and simulation-driven design to redesign the imaging platform and enable flexible system operation. The development effort focused on resolving synchronization challenges while enabling exploration of the system’s full imaging capability.
Development focused on:
- Designing coordinated motion control systems supporting gantry-free imaging
- Applying simulation tools to resolve synchronization and trajectory challenges
- Integrating robotics technologies enabling precise source-detector alignment
- Developing control strategies that preserved image fidelity during dynamic motion
- Optimizing imaging workflows to improve patient comfort and accessibility
Outcome
Triple Ring delivered a redesigned CT imaging platform capable of supporting flexible motion and advanced imaging workflows. The resulting system enabled comprehensive exploration of the technology’s design space while maintaining reliable imaging performance.
The completed platform positioned Malcova to advance its innovative breast imaging technology toward clinical validation and future regulatory development, supporting improved imaging coverage and enhanced patient experience.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined robotics, x-ray imaging physics, advanced simulation, and motion control expertise to redesign a gantry-free breast imaging platform — resolving complex synchronization challenges and enabling full 3D imaging at ultra-low radiation dose with expanded anatomical coverage.
Tobias collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring on this project.
Tobias Funk, PhD
Experimental Physics & Instrumentation
Dr. Tobias Funk develops advanced instrumentation that applies ionizing radiation to scientific and medical challenges. His work spans imaging, simulation, and system design, helping translate complex physical principles into practical technologies used in real-world environments.
Key Innovation
By unifying VCSEL arrays, time-of-flight imaging, and wide field-of-view optics, we delivered navigation and hazard detection that exceeded requirements on an aggressive consumer timeline.
Kuri, the Nimble Companion Robot
Client
Mayfield Robotics
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Overview
Mayfield Robotics collaborated with Triple Ring to design and develop an optical guidance system for Kuri, a home companion robot designed to safely navigate and interact within household environments. The system required advanced sensing capabilities to support navigation, hazard detection, and environmental awareness.
The resulting optical platform integrated multiple sensing technologies into a compact architecture capable of supporting simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) while meeting strict safety and cost requirements for consumer deployment.
Challenge
Kuri required a sophisticated optical system capable of performing multiple functions, including hazard detection, navigation, and real-time environmental mapping. The system needed to maintain high performance in dynamic home environments while remaining safe for use around humans and pets.
Additionally, the integrated optics needed to meet strict eye-safety certification requirements and support reliable operation under consumer use conditions. Designing this system required combining complex optical components within a compact and manufacturable architecture while meeting aggressive launch timelines.
Kuri, the Nimble Companion Robot
Overview
Mayfield Robotics collaborated with Triple Ring to design and develop an optical guidance system for Kuri, a home companion robot designed to safely navigate and interact within household environments. The system required advanced sensing capabilities to support navigation, hazard detection, and environmental awareness.
The resulting optical platform integrated multiple sensing technologies into a compact architecture capable of supporting simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) while meeting strict safety and cost requirements for consumer deployment.
Challenge
Kuri required a sophisticated optical system capable of performing multiple functions, including hazard detection, navigation, and real-time environmental mapping. The system needed to maintain high performance in dynamic home environments while remaining safe for use around humans and pets.
Additionally, the integrated optics needed to meet strict eye-safety certification requirements and support reliable operation under consumer use conditions. Designing this system required combining complex optical components within a compact and manufacturable architecture while meeting aggressive launch timelines.
Client
Mayfield Robotics
Practice Areas
Core Disciplines
Solution
Triple Ring applied deep expertise in optical system design and robotics integration to develop a navigation system capable of supporting safe and reliable robot operation. The development effort focused on integrating advanced sensing technologies into a scalable and cost-effective architecture.
Engineering efforts included:
- Designing pulsed vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) array systems supporting depth sensing
- Developing panoramic annular lens configurations enabling wide-area environmental awareness
- Integrating time-of-flight imaging sensor arrays for real-time distance measurement
- Engineering optical subsystems compliant with stringent eye-safety requirements
- Supporting system-level integration and validation to meet cost, performance, and production goals
Outcome
Triple Ring delivered an optical navigation system that exceeded cost and performance requirements while achieving certification for eye safety and compliance with UL 3300 standards. The system enabled reliable navigation and safe operation within home environments.
The completed optical system supported the successful commercial launch of Kuri, with hundreds of units delivered to customers. The design generated multiple patent filings and contributed to Kuri being named Best in Show at CES 2017 by leading technology publications.
Triple Ring Talent
The Story Behind the Innovation
At Triple Ring, we draw on a deep bench of expertise across diverse disciplines matched to each innovation challenge. For this project, our team combined optical system design, VCSEL and time-of-flight sensing, robotics integration, and consumer safety certification expertise to develop a compact, eye-safe optical navigation system capable of supporting simultaneous localization, mapping, and hazard detection in dynamic home environments.
Todd collaborated with many talented colleagues across Triple Ring and Mayfield Robotics on this project.
Todd Harris, PhD
Physics & Optical Science
Dr. Todd Harris applies expertise in optics and imaging physics to the development of advanced sensing and illumination technologies. His work combines optical modeling with system design, helping teams translate complex physical principles into dependable, high-performance solutions.