WAUKESHA, WI, JUNE 30, 2006 - GE Healthcare has received the 2006 Industrial Design Excellence Award (IDEA)Silver Award in recognition of a unique, 3D mouse created for surgeons performing vascular procedures. The award-winning mouse was designed with a user interface device that allows interventional radiologists to view 3D images in sterile surgical environments.

Announced by BusinessWeek, GE Healthcare is one of 39 winners of the Silver Award this year. The award is given to products that are creative, outstanding in design and user-friendly.

"The 3D mouse is a natural way to control 3D images on a screen while fully engaged in a surgical procedure," said Doug Dietz, the Industrial Design Studio Manager, Americas. "It is a great use of intuitive input technology customized for an environment where space is a premium and there is already an overload of controls."


Made from injection-molded plastics, the 3D mouse allows a physician to dynamically access 3D images during surgical procedures providing real-time exploration of patient anatomy. The 3D Mouse combines control of six distinct user movements (X,Y,Z rotations and X,Y,Z translations)into a single, liquid-proof "joystick" while providing the functionality of a standard 2D mouse. Design details "map" key control locations, providing positive tactile feedback that allows the physician to work without taking their eyes off the patient.

"We are extremely proud of this award, which celebrates GE Healthcare's focus on the needs of the surgeon," said Lou Lenzi, the General Manager
of GE Healthcare's Global Design team. "User interface is becoming more and more important and this represents a new way of thinking."

On the market since January 2006, the 3D mouse's innovative form and control mapping details allow comfortable and safe use while somewhat hidden by the required sterile drape. The 3D mouse's mounting also facilitates flexible, convenient access to the physician regardless of the physical size or hand preference.

Co-sponsored by BusinessWeek and the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the IDEA competition recognizes the world's most innovative and outstanding designs in categories as different as transportation, sporting goods, consumer electronics and medical and scientific equipment.

The award will be given to GE Healthcare designers September 20, at the 2006 IDSA National Conference and Education Symposium in Austin, Texas. GE Healthcare's 3D mouse, as well as other award winning designs, will be showcased at the event.

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