K172601 · Deka Research & Development Corp. · IMK · Mar 2, 2018 · Physical Medicine
Device Facts
Record ID
K172601
Device Name
Next Generation iBOT
Applicant
Deka Research & Development Corp.
Product Code
IMK · Physical Medicine
Decision Date
Mar 2, 2018
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 890.3890
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The Next Generation iBOT is intended to provide indoor mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position who meet the requirements of the user assessment and training certification program. The device is intended to climb stairs. Companions who are required to provide assistance during Assisted Stair Climbing Mode must meet the requirements of the training certification program.
Device Story
Multi-mode powered wheelchair; enables indoor/outdoor mobility, curb/stair climbing, and elevated seat height for activities of daily living. Input: user joystick/controller commands; MEMS-based inertial sensors for body position. Transformation: control software processes sensor data to maintain active stabilization across multiple modes (Standard, 4-Wheel, Balance, Stair-climbing, Remote). Output: motorized movement; visual feedback via controller display. Used in home/work/community environments; operated by the user or assisted by a trained companion. Benefits: improved mobility, obstacle traversal, and eye-level interaction. Healthcare providers use the device to restore mobility; clinical decision-making involves assessing user capability for safe operation via a mandatory training certification program.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data. Substantial equivalence is supported by extensive bench testing, including static/dynamic stability, braking effectiveness, energy consumption, obstacle climbing, electromagnetic compatibility, and battery safety per ISO 7176 series and other recognized standards. Usability testing was conducted to validate changes in the user interface.
Technological Characteristics
Powered wheelchair with active stabilization. Materials: pneumatic or foam-filled tires, aluminum/steel frame components. Sensing: MEMS-based inertial sensors. Energy: 57.6 VDC Li-ion batteries. Connectivity: Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy, CAN bus. Software: embedded control system. Standards: ISO 7176-1 through 7176-28, IEC 62133, UL 2054, UN 38.3.
Indications for Use
Indicated for persons restricted to a sitting position with mobility impairments who meet user assessment and training certification requirements. Intended for indoor/outdoor mobility, including stair climbing. Companions assisting in stair climbing must also meet training certification requirements.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A stair-climbing wheelchair is a device with wheels that is intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. The device is intended to climb stairs.
Special Controls
*Classification.* Class II (special controls). The special controls for this device are:(1) The design characteristics of the device must ensure that the geometry and material composition are consistent with the intended use.
(2) Performance testing must demonstrate adequate mechanical performance under simulated use conditions and environments. Performance testing must include the following:
(i) Fatigue testing;
(ii) Resistance to dynamic loads (impact testing);
(iii) Effective use of the braking mechanism and how the device stops in case of an electrical brake failure;
(iv) Demonstration of adequate stability of the device on inclined planes (forward, backward, and lateral);
(v) Demonstration of the ability of the device to safely ascend and descend obstacles (i.e., stairs, curb); and
(vi) Demonstration of ability to effectively use the device during adverse temperatures and following storage in adverse temperatures and humidity conditions.
(3) The skin-contacting components of the device must be demonstrated to be biocompatible.
(4) Software design, verification, and validation must demonstrate that the device controls, alarms, and user interfaces function as intended.
(5) Appropriate analysis and performance testing must be conducted to verify electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility of the device.
(6) Performance testing must demonstrate battery safety and evaluate longevity.
(7) Performance testing must evaluate the flammability of device components.
(8) Patient labeling must bear all information required for the safe and effective use of the device, specifically including the following:
(i) A clear description of the technological features of the device and the principles of how the device works;
(ii) A clear description of the appropriate use environments/conditions, including prohibited environments;
(iii) Preventive maintenance recommendations;
(iv) Operating specifications for proper use of the device such as patient weight limitations, device width, and clearance for maneuverability; and
(v) A detailed summary of the device-related adverse events and how to report any complications.
(9) Clinician labeling must include all the information in the Patient labeling noted in paragraph (b)(8) of this section but must also include the following:
(i) Identification of patients who can effectively operate the device; and
(ii) Instructions on how to fit, modify, or calibrate the device.
(10) Usability studies of the device must demonstrate that the device can be used by the patient in the intended use environment with the instructions for use and user training.
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March 2, 2018
DEKA Research & Development Corp Roger Leroux Director of Regulatory and Clinical Affairs 340 Commercial St. Manchester, New Hampshire 03101
Re: K172601
Trade/Device Name: Next Generation iBOT Regulation Number: 21 CFR 890.3890 Regulation Name: Stair-Climbing Wheelchair Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: IMK Dated: January 31, 2018 Received: February 1, 2018
Dear Roger Leroux:
We have reviewed your Section 510(k) premarket notification of intent to market the device referenced above and have determined the device is substantially equivalent (for the indications for use stated in the enclosure) to legally marketed predicate devices marketed in interstate commerce prior to May 28, 1976, the enactment date of the Medical Device Amendments, or to devices that have been reclassified in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (Act) that do not require approval of a premarket approval application (PMA). You may, therefore, market the device, subject to the general controls provisions of the Act. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, and prohibitions against misbranding and adulteration. Please note: CDRH does not evaluate information related to contract liability warranties. We remind you, however, that device labeling must be truthful and not misleading.
If your device is classified (see above) into either class II (Special Controls) or class III (PMA), it may be subject to additional controls. Existing major regulations affecting your device can be found in the Code of Federal Regulations, Title 21, Parts 800 to 898. In addition, FDA may publish further announcements concerning your device in the Federal Register.
Please be advised that FDA's issuance of a substantial equivalence determination does not mean that FDA has made a determination that your device complies with other requirements of the Act or any Federal statutes and regulations administered by other Federal agencies. You must comply with all the Act's requirements, including, but not limited to: registration and listing (21 CFR Part 807); labeling (21 CFR Part 801); medical device reporting of medical device-related adverse events) (21 CFR 803); good
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manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (OS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820); and if applicable, the electronic product radiation control provisions (Sections 531-542 of the Act); 21 CFR 1000-1050.
Also, please note the regulation entitled, "Misbranding by reference to premarket notification" (21 CFR Part 807.97). For questions regarding the reporting of adverse events under the MDR regulation (21 CFR Part 803), please go to http://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/Safety/ReportaProblem/default.htm for the CDRH's Office of Surveillance and Biometrics/Division of Postmarket Surveillance.
For comprehensive regulatory information about medical devices and radiation-emitting products, including information about labeling regulations, please see Device Advice (https://www.fda.gov/MedicalDevices/DeviceRegulationandGuidance/) and CDRH Learn (http://www.fda.gov/Training/CDRHLearn). Additionally, you may contact the Division of Industry and Consumer Education (DICE) to ask a question about a specific regulatory topic. See the DICE website (http://www.fda.gov/DICE) for more information or contact DICE by email (DICE@fda.hhs.gov) or phone (1-800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100).
Sincerely.
# Michael J. Hoffmann -S
Carlos L. Peña, PhD, MS for Director Division of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Device Evaluation Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
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# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K172601
Device Name Next Generation iBOT
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Next Generation iBOT is intended to provide indoor mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position who meet the requirements of the user assessment and training certification program. The device is intended to climb stairs. Companions who are required to provide assistance during Assisted Stair Climbing Mode must meet the requirements of the training certification program.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| <div> <span> </span> <span>Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)</span> </div> | <div> <span> </span> <span>Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)</span> </div> |
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# 6. 510(K) SUMMARY
This 510(k) summary is being submitted in accordance with the requirements of the Safe Medical Device Act (SMDA) of 1990. The content of this 510(k) summary is provided in conformance with 21 CFR 807.92.
# Date Prepared: January 25, 2018
# Submitter's Information
| 510(k) Sponsor: | DEKA Research & Development<br>340 Commercial Street<br>Manchester, NH 03101 |
|-----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Contact Person: | Roger Leroux<br>Regulatory Affairs Project Manager<br>DEKA Research & Development Corporation |
| | Phone: (603) 669-5139<br>Fax: (603) 624-0573 |
| | rleroux @dekaresearch.com |
# Device Information
| Common/Usual Name: | Stair-climbing wheelchair |
|-------------------------|---------------------------|
| Trade/Proprietary Name: | Next Generation iBOT |
| Classification Name: | Stair-climbing wheelchair |
| Device Classification: | 890.3890 |
| Product Code: | IMK |
| Device Panel: | Physical Medicine |
# Predicate Device
The Next Generation iBOT (Next Gen iBOT) is substantially equivalent to the iBOT 4000 Mobility System (iBOT 4000), which was previously approved under PMA #P020033/S002. Stair-climbing wheelchairs were reclassified into Class II, effective April 14, 2014.
### Device Description
The proposed device is a multi-mode powered wheelchair that enables users to maneuver in confined spaces, climb curbs, stairs, and other obstacles. The device is intended to provide indoor and outdoor mobility, including stair climbing, to persons limited to a seated position who are capable of operating a powered wheelchair.
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The Next Gen iBOT includes active stabilization in multiple driving modes and allows for traversing aggressive and difficult terrain and operation at an elevated seat height. This elevated seat height offers benefits in activities of daily living (e.g., accessing higher shelves) and interaction with other people at "eye level" while either stationary or moving.
The proposed device incorporates updates to the iBOT 4000 design to take advantage of advances in component and process technology while maintaining the same fundamental capabilities.
# Indications for Use
The Next Generation iBOT is intended to provide indoor and outdoor mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position who meet the requirements of the user assessment and training certification program. The device is intended to climb stairs. Companions who are required to provide assistance during Assisted Stair Climbing Mode must meet the requirements of the training certification program.
# Comparison to Predicate Device
The Next Gen iBOT has similar technological characteristics as compared to the predicate device. The proposed device offers substantially the same mobility functions as the iBOT 4000. Many of the design modifications were done to take advantage of improvements in technology since the iBOT 4000 was originally released in 2005. Where appropriate, component design has been maintained from the iBOT 4000; the overall system architecture and fundamental technology from the iBOT 4000 has been maintained. The table below shows the similarities and differences between the predicate and proposed devices. We believe the proposed modifications from the predicate device do not raise new questions regarding safety or effectiveness of the device.
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| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
|-------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| General Characteristics | | | |
| Indications for Use | The device is indicated for<br>individuals who have mobility<br>impairments and the use of at<br>least one upper extremity. The<br>device is intended to provide<br>mobility on smooth surfaces<br>and inclines at home, at work,<br>and in other environments;<br>movement across obstacles,<br>uneven terrain, curbs, grass,<br>gravel and other soft surfaces;<br>mobility in a seated position at an<br>elevated height; ascent and<br>decent of stairs with or without<br>assistance; and mobility and<br>transportation. | The Next Generation iBOT is<br>intended to provide indoor and<br>outdoor mobility to persons<br>restricted to a sitting position<br>who meet the requirements of the<br>user assessment and training<br>certification program. The device<br>is intended to climb stairs.<br>Companions who are required to<br>provide assistance during<br>Assisted Stair Climbing Mode<br>must meet the requirements of<br>the training certification<br>program. | The Indications for Use has been<br>modified slightly from that<br>previously cleared in the<br>predicate device to align with the<br>intended use stated in the device<br>regulation (21 CFR 890.3890)<br>and with other powered<br>wheelchairs. These wording<br>changes in the intended use do<br>not alter the therapeutic or<br>diagnostic effect and do not<br>affect safety and effectiveness of<br>the device. |
| Manufacturer | Independence Technology | DEKA Research & Development | N/A |
| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
| Rx/OTC designation | Rx | Rx | No change |
| | Physical Characteristics | | |
| Drive wheel type | Pneumatic. Single mounting<br>point. | Pneumatic or foam-filled. 5 bolt<br>pattern, split rim design. | The change allows for additional<br>tire options, which is standard in<br>the wheelchair industry. The<br>functionality of the wheels has<br>not changed and the change does<br>not affect safety and<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| Caster assembly | Tweel® mounted to caster arm | Standard caster wheel with<br>suspension assembly | This change allows for increased<br>availability of the caster wheels. The driving and suspension<br>functions are maintained. The<br>caster assembly functionality has<br>not changed and does not affect<br>the safety and effectiveness of<br>the device. |
| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
| Batteries | 67.2 VDC 7.2Ah NiCd (2<br>batteries) | Four or Six Li-ion batteries, each<br>rated 57.6 VDC, 5.1 Ah | Li-ion batteries provide lighter<br>weight, higher specific energy,<br>and are the current optimal<br>battery technology. The Li-ion<br>batteries provide similar voltage<br>and current characteristics as the<br>NiCd batteries. A full suite of<br>testing for the Li-ion batteries<br>has been conducted and<br>demonstrates the change in<br>battery type does not affect<br>safety and effectiveness of the<br>device. |
# Table of Comparisons from Predicate Device to Proposed Device
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| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
|--------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Communication with<br>external<br>applications/devices | Infrared | Bluetooth 4.2 Low Energy | Bluetooth has become the widely<br>available wireless technology.<br>The change to Bluetooth<br>communication allows for use of<br>Bluetooth encryption and<br>improved communication with<br>mobile devices (i.e. laptop). The<br>change to Bluetooth does not<br>affect the safety and<br>effectiveness of the device. |
| Drive system | Rear wheel drive, 4-wheel drive,<br>2-wheel balancing | Rear wheel drive, 4-wheel drive,<br>2-wheel balancing | No change |
| Operating modes | Standard, 4-Wheel, Balance,<br>Stair-climbing, Remote | Standard, 4-Wheel, Balance,<br>Stair-climbing, Remote | No change |
| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
| Inertial Measurement | Tilt bulbs and early solid state<br>gyros | MEMS based sensors | MEMS sensors have become<br>widely available technology to<br>measure the same physical<br>phenomenon as the predicate-<br>providing the body position<br>information to the controls<br>software. The update allows<br>improved alignment to improve<br>reliability of the measurement.<br>The change does not affect the<br>safety and effectiveness of the<br>device. |
| Position monitoring | External homing sensor | Internal absolute position sensor | The change allows for improved<br>reliability in the homing of the<br>device, by moving it inside.<br>The change does not affect the<br>safety and effectiveness of the<br>device. |
| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
| System Communication | RS485 | CAN bus | The change to CAN Bus<br>supports current electronic<br>hardware and communication<br>with other power wheelchair<br>options. The change does not<br>affect safety and effectiveness of<br>the device. |
| Weight (including<br>batteries) | 280 lb. | 242.5 lb. | The weight is comparable to the<br>predicate device. |
| | Device Performance | | |
| Driving Range | 15.5 miles | 15.5 miles (with 4 batteries) | No change |
| Dynamic stability | 5 degrees (standard)<br>10 degrees (4 wheel)<br>5 degrees (balance) | 10 degrees (standard)<br>12 degrees (4 wheel)<br>8 degrees (balance) | The change represents equivalent<br>or increased dynamic stability<br>when compared to the predicate<br>device. |
| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
| Max Speed Settings by<br>Mode | Standard: 6.8 mph<br>4-Wheel: 4.8 mph<br>Balance: 3.2 mph | Standard: 6.7 mph<br>4-Wheel: 5.2 mph<br>Balance: 3.3 mph | Maximum speed is comparable<br>to the predicate device. |
| Maximum user weight<br>capacity | 250 lb. | 300 lb. | Update allows additional users.<br>All testing performed with<br>expanded weight range. |
| Obstacle Climbing | 5 in. (in 4 wheel mode) | 5 in. (in 4 wheel mode) | No change |
| Turning Radius | 29.5 in. - 38.6 in.<br>(dependent on mode) | 24.5 in. – 33.8 in.<br>(dependent on mode) | Turning radius is comparable to<br>the predicate device |
| User Interface Features | | | |
| Seating | Gen 3 seat | Gen 3 seat | No change |
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| Characteristic | Predicate<br>(iBOT 4000)<br>(P020033/S002) | Proposed<br>(Next Generation iBOT) | Assessment of difference<br>(if applicable) |
|--------------------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| User controller,<br>joystick, screen, buttons,<br>etc. | User controller with integrated<br>joystick, display, buttons, and<br>toggle switches. User assist<br>confirmation button on the back<br>of the seat. Power off request<br>button located on the power base. | User controller with integrated<br>joystick, display, buttons, speed<br>setting reduction wheel, and<br>optional toggle switches. The<br>user controller incorporates user<br>assist confirmation. Power off<br>request button located on the<br>powerbase. | The functions that the user<br>controller allows and the number<br>and type of user input devices<br>are nearly identical. Changes<br>simplify user tasks, improve<br>visibility, and improve screen<br>flow. The changes do not affect<br>the safety and effectiveness of<br>the device. |
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# Performance Data
The following performance testing was conducted to demonstrate that the proposed device complies with the 21 CFR 890.3890, special controls and recognized standards. This testing demonstrates substantial equivalence to the predicate device through:
- evaluation to current versions of the standards used in testing of the predicate . device; with modification for updates in battery technology,
- software testing per the current version of FDA guidance on software testing, and ●
- . usability testing focused in particular on changes in the user interface when compared with the predicate device.
A summary of the testing performed is provided below.
# Bench Testing
The proposed device has been demonstrated to comply with the following standards:
- 1. IEC 62133:2012 Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other nonacid electrolytes - Safety requirements for portable sealed secondary cells, and for batteries made from them, for use in portable applications
- 2. ISO 10993-1:2009 Biological evaluation of medical devices Part 1: Evaluation and testing within a risk management process
- 3. ISO 7176-1:2014 Wheelchairs Part 1: Determination of Static Stability
- 4. ISO 7176-2:2001 Wheelchairs Part 2: Determination of Dynamic Stability of Electric Wheelchairs
- 5. ISO 7176-3:2012 Wheelchairs Part 3: Determination of Effectiveness of Brakes
- 6. ISO 7176-4:2008 Wheelchairs Part 4: Energy consumption of electric wheelchairs and scooters for determination of theoretical distance range
- 7. ISO 7176-5:2008 Wheelchairs Part 5: Determination of dimensions, mass and maneuvering space
- 8. ISO 7176-6:2001 Wheelchairs Part 6: Determination of Maximum Speed, Acceleration & Retardation for Electric Wheelchairs
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- 9. ISO 7176-8:2014 Wheelchairs Part 8: Requirements & Test Methods for Static, Impact & Fatigue Strengths
- 10. ISO 7176-9:2009 Wheelchairs Part 9: Climatic tests for electric wheelchairs
- 11. ISO 7176-10:2008 Wheelchairs Part 10: Determination of obstacle-climbing ability of electrically powered wheelchairs
- 12. ISO 7176-11: 2012 Wheelchairs Part 11: Test dummies
- 13. ISO 7176-13: 1999 Wheelchairs Part 13: Determination of coefficient of friction of test surfaces
- 14. ISO 7176-14 2008 Wheelchairs Part 14: Power & Control Systems for Electric Wheelchairs-Requirements & Test Methods
- 15. ISO 7176-15:1996 Wheelchairs Part 15: Requirements For Information Disclosure, Documentation And Labeling
- 16. ISO 7176-21:2009 Wheelchairs Part 21: Requirements and test methods for electromagnetic compatibility of electrically powered wheelchairs and scooters, and battery chargers
- 17. ISO 7176-22:2014 Wheelchairs-Part 22: Set Up Procedures
- 18. ISO 7176-25:2013 Wheelchairs Part 25: Requirements and test methods for batteries and their chargers for electrically powered wheelchairs and motorized scooters
- 19. ISO 7176-28:2012 Wheelchairs Part 28: Requirements And Test Methods For Stair-Climbing Devices
- 20. RESNA WC-1:2009, Section 7 Wheelchairs Method of measurement of seating and wheel dimensions
- 21. UL 2054:2004 Household and Commercial Batteries
- 22. UN 38.3 United Nations, New York & Geneva, Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Manual of Tests and Criteria, Subsection 38. 3
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# Software Testing
Software development and validation was conducted according to IEC 62304 and the FDA guidance document General Principles of Software Validation – Final Guidance for Industry and FDA Staff.
Software documentation is included according to the FDA's Guidance for the Content of Premarket Submissions for Software Contained in Medical Devices for Major level of concern for the software embedded in the Next Generation iBOT stair-climbing wheelchair.
Cybersecurity risks were assessed and documentation is included based on the FDA's Guidance of Premarket Submissions for Management of Cybersecurity in Medical Device.
# Usability Testing
A usability evaluation was conducted on the elements of the device (and particularly the user interaction with the device) which have changed from the iBOT 4000. There have been no changes to the intended use environment, modes of operation or drive architecture.
# Conclusion
The performance data included in this premarket notification demonstrate that the proposed device is as safe and effective as the iBOT 4000 Mobility System predicate device. DEKA finds the Next Generation iBOT to be substantially equivalent to the predicate device.
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Select the rows, go to the Collections tab, and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). You can reload the selection anytime and carry it into the PDF viewer and other tabs that support selections.
7. Product codes and the regulations tree
Click a product code in the results to jump to it in the regulations tree — identification text, sibling product codes, and devices you can open in a PDF viewer on the right. Click a regulation number to see its identification, special controls, and related product codes. You can also search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree. Always read the special controls if any exist for your device — it broadens your search and sharpens pre-kickoff research.
What can you do from the regulations tree view?
Browse product codes and regulation numbers, read the identification text and special controls, browse sibling product codes, open device PDFs on the right, and search by product code or regulation number at the top of the tree.
8. Chart view
Click Show Chart and segment by regulation number (or product code) to see which regulations dominate your result set. Clicking a regulation takes you into the regulations tree. Great for spotting that most matches are, say, hardware laparoscopic devices — a cue to go back and filter.
How do you see which regulations dominate a search result set?
Click "Show Chart" and segment by Regulation Number. Clicking a regulation takes you to the regulations tree.
9. The predicate graph
Open the Predicates tab for a family-tree view of predicate relationships. Click a node to trace its parents and children; selections from search carry over pre-selected. Commonly predicated devices are worth reading — a lot of people predicated them for a reason. The visual lineage is also handy on client calls, e.g. to show how a predicate family evolved and justify why your predicate still holds.
In the predicate graph, why are commonly predicated devices worth reading?
A lot of people predicated them for a reason. Clicking a node traces parents and children, and selections from search carry over pre-selected.
10. Embeddings: the galaxy map
The Embeddings tab plots every matching document in a 2-D "galaxy map" where semantically similar devices cluster together. Hover or click clusters to explore, and let AI label the clusters for you. Embeddings beat product codes for grouping: two devices can carry different product codes (LLZ vs. QIH) yet do the same thing — the embedding captures the meaning of the intended use and device story. This is also exactly how retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) works under the hood, and it makes a great visual on client calls.
Try it yourself
Head to the search page and work through a few of these AI/ML fuzzy searches to build intuition: perivascular fat on CT · aortic valve calcification opportunistic screening on noncontrast CT · breast cancer prediction on digital pathology slides · autism detection · gestational age prediction · a hearing aid that can also detect a pulse · foundation model based analysis of ECG · large language models · penetration test. Watch how the relevance scores, intended use, and AI Performance tables tell you when results stop being meaningful.