K201906 · Carol Cole Company Dba Nuface · NFO · Feb 24, 2021 · Neurology
Device Facts
Record ID
K201906
Device Name
Trinity ELE Plus and Trinity ELE Plus Pro
Applicant
Carol Cole Company Dba Nuface
Product Code
NFO · Neurology
Decision Date
Feb 24, 2021
Decision
SESE
Submission Type
Traditional
Regulation
21 CFR 882.5890
Device Class
Class 2
Attributes
Therapeutic
Indications for Use
The Trinity ELE Plus is intended for facial stimulation and is indicated for over-the-counter cosmetic use.
Device Story
Hand-held device for facial stimulation; delivers low-level microcurrent via dual chrome-plated wands. User-operated; intended for over-the-counter cosmetic use. Device features multi-function button for power, treatment control, and Bluetooth pairing; includes 'BOOST' button for temporary output increase. Provides audible feedback and 'hum' features to guide treatment cycles; LED indicators show device status and treatment progress. Powered by internal rechargeable battery via wireless charging cradle. Pairs with NūFACE App via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) to select/run pre-programmed treatment profiles. Microcurrent output is user-adjustable (0.3–50 Hz). Benefits include aesthetic facial toning. Healthcare provider involvement is not required; device is for consumer self-use.
Clinical Evidence
No clinical data. Substantial equivalence supported by bench testing, biocompatibility evaluation, and software verification/validation.
Indicated for over-the-counter cosmetic facial stimulation.
Regulatory Classification
Identification
A transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator for pain relief is a device used to apply an electrical current to electrodes on a patient's skin to treat pain.
{0}------------------------------------------------
Image /page/0/Picture/0 description: The image shows the logo of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The logo consists of two parts: the Department of Health & Human Services logo on the left and the FDA logo on the right. The FDA logo is a blue square with the letters "FDA" in white, followed by the words "U.S. FOOD & DRUG ADMINISTRATION" in blue.
February 24, 2021
Carol Cole Company dba NuFACE % Bob Duffy President Bob Duffy Associates, Inc. 16405 Summer Sage Rd. Poway, California 92064
Re: K201906
Trade/Device Name: Trinity ELE Plus and Trinity ELE Plus Pro Regulation Number: 21 CFR 882.5890 Regulation Name: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulator for Pain Relief Regulatory Class: Class II Product Code: NFO Dated: January 20, 2021 Received: January 25, 2021
Dear Bob Duffy:
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. Although this letter refers to your product as a device, please be aware that some cleared products may instead be combination products. The 510(k) Premarket Notification Database located at https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpmn/pmn.cfm identifies combination product submissions. The general controls provisions of the Act include requirements for annual registration, listing of devices, good manufacturing practice, labeling, 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
{1}------------------------------------------------
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) for devices or postmarketing safety reporting (21 CFR 4, Subpart B) for combination products (see https://www.fda.gov/combination-products/guidance-regulatory-information/postmarketing-safety-reportingcombination-products); good manufacturing practice requirements as set forth in the quality systems (QS) regulation (21 CFR Part 820) for devices or current good manufacturing practices (21 CFR 4, Subpart A) for combination products; 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 https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-safety/medical-device-reportingmdr-how-report-medical-device-problems.
For comprehensive regulatory information about medical devices and radiation-emitting products, including information about labeling regulations, please see Device (https://www.fda.gov/medicaldevices/device-advice-comprehensive-regulatory-assistance)and CDRH Learn (https://www.fda.gov/training-and-continuing-education/cdrh-learn). 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 (https://www.fda.gov/medical-device-advice-comprehensive-regulatoryassistance/contact-us-division-industry-and-consumer-education-dice) for more information or contact DICE by email (DICE@fda.hhs.gov) or phone (1-800-638-2041 or 301-796-7100).
Sincerely,
Heather Dean, PhD Assistant Director. Acute Injury Devices Team DHT5B: Division of Neuromodulation and Physical Medicine Devices OHT5: Office of Neurological and Physical Medicine Devices Office of Product Evaluation and Quality Center for Devices and Radiological Health
Enclosure
{2}------------------------------------------------
# Indications for Use
510(k) Number (if known) K201906
Device Name
Trinity ELE Plus and Trinity ELE Plus Pro
#### Indications for Use (Describe)
The Trinity ELE Plus and Trinity ELE Plus Pro devices are intended for facial stimulation and are indicated for over-the counter cosmetic use.
| Type of Use (Select one or both, as applicable) | |
|-------------------------------------------------|--|
|-------------------------------------------------|--|
__ Prescription Use (Part 21 CFR 801 Subpart D)
X Over-The-Counter Use (21 CFR 801 Subpart C)
#### CONTINUE ON A SEPARATE PAGE IF NEEDED.
This section applies only to requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
#### *DO NOT SEND YOUR COMPLETED FORM TO THE PRA STAFF EMAIL ADDRESS BELOW.*
The burden time for this collection of information is estimated to average 79 hours per response, including the time to review instructions, search existing data sources, gather and maintain the data needed and complete and review the collection of information. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this information collection, including suggestions for reducing this burden, to:
> Department of Health and Human Services Food and Drug Administration Office of Chief Information Officer Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA) Staff PRAStaff(@fda.hhs.gov
"An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB number."
{3}------------------------------------------------
### 510(k) Summary
This 510(k) Summary is being submitted in accordance with the requirements established by 21 CFR 807.92.
### 1. 510(k) Submitter/Owner
Carol Cole Company dba NūFACE 1325 Sycamore Ave, Suite A Vista, CA 92081 (USA)
| Contact Person: | Tera Peterson |
|-----------------|-------------------------------|
| | Chief Executive Officer |
| | Phone: (760) 509-1187 |
| | Email: tpeterson@myNuFACE.com |
February 23, 2021 Date Prepared:
# 2. Subiect Device Name
| | Device Trade / Proprietary Name: | Trinity ELE Plus and Trinity ELE Plus Pro |
|--|----------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------|
| | Device Common or Usual Name: | Trinity ELE Plus Facial Toning Device |
| | Regulation Number: | 21 CFR 882.5890 |
| | Classification Name: | Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator for pain relief |
| | Product Code: | NFO |
| | FDA Panel: | 84 - Neurology |
| | Class: | II |
# 3. Predicate Device
Below is information on the legally marketed predicate device to which the Carol Cole Company dba NūFACE is claiming substantial equivalence to:
| 510(k) Number: | K131251 |
|----------------------|------------------------------------------------------------|
| Manufacturer: | Carol Cole Company dba NūFACE |
| Trade Name: | Trinity ELE |
| Regulation Number: | 21 CFR 882.5890 |
| Classification Name: | Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator for pain relief |
| Product Code: | NFO |
| FDA Panel: | 84 - Neurology |
| Class: | II |
# 4. Reference Device
Below is information on the legally marketed predicate device which the Carol Cole Company dba NūFACE is using as a reference device:
| 510(k) Number: | K103472 |
|----------------------|------------------------------------------------------------|
| Manufacturer: | Carol Cole Company dba NūFACE |
| Trade Name: | NūFACE® Plus |
| Regulation Number: | 21 CFR 882.5890 |
| Classification Name: | Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator for pain relief |
#### NūFACE®
Page 1 of 7
{4}------------------------------------------------
| Product Code: | NFO |
|---------------|----------------|
| FDA Panel: | 84 - Neurology |
| Class: | II |
### 5. Device Description
The Trinity ELE Plus comprises the Trinity ELE Plus device main body, a Trinity ELE Plus microcurrent attachment head, a charging cradle, and a wall-mount power adaptor. A tube of NuFACE® Gel Primer is provided with the subject device as an accessory. The subject device and all its associated components and accessories are reusable and provided non-sterile.
The Trinity ELE Plus is a hand-held device that produces low levels of microcurrent which is discharged through two dual chrome-plated precise wands for aesthetic purposes. The device provides audible feedback to inform the user to relocate the device to treat a new location on the skin. The device also includes "hum" features to guide the user during the treatment cycle.
The subject device is powered by one internal rechargeable, non-removable battery which is charged via a provided wireless charging cradle. The charging cradle connects to a provided wall-mount power adaptor. Microcurrent output is cut-off while the device is sitting on the charging cradle either charging the battery or when the battery is fully charged.
The enclosures of the subject device main body, the attachment head and the charging cradle are made from injection molded ABS thermoplastic material. The same ABS material is used in other FDA-cleared devices. The dual chrome-plated precise wands on the attachment head use chromium. The same chromium material is used in the predicate device dual chrome-plated precise wands.
The subject device, including the attachment head, measures 6.1" H x 2.4" W x 1.2" D. The charging cradle measures 2.3" H x 3.0" W x 2.7" D.
The device includes an 'ON/OFF' multi-function button to turn the device on and off, start and stop treatment, increase or decrease the microcurrent output level and pair with a smart device. The device also includes a "BOOST" button that temporarily increases the microcurrent output level.
The device includes indicator LED's to provide information to the user on the status of the device and the progress of the treatment.
The subject device is the capable of pairing with compatible smart devices using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) wireless communications technology. This technology allows the subject device to communicate with other devices running the NūFACE® App which allows the user to select and run pre-programmed treatment profiles.
The Trinity ELE Plus provides microcurrent output at selected frequencies from 0.3 to 50 Hz.
The Trinity ELE Plus is available in two models, a Standard model and a 'Pro'' model. The Trinity ELE Plus Standard model has a maximum output current without Boost of 170 uA, and the Trinity ELE Plus Pro model has a maximum output current without Boost of 200 uA. All other aspects of the Trinity ELE Plus except those related to maximum output current, are the same between the Standard model and Pro models.
# 6. Intended Use
The Trinity ELE Plus is intended for facial stimulation and is indicated for over-the-counter cosmetic use.
{5}------------------------------------------------
# 7. Technological Characteristics
| Item | Subject Device | Predicate Device | Same / Different |
|--------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|------------------|
| Type of Energy<br>Output | Microcurrent | Microcurrent | Same |
| Energy Delivery | Microcurrent is delivered via<br>dual chrome-plated precise<br>wands (optimized for contact<br>with the skin) | Microcurrent is delivered via<br>dual chrome-plated precise<br>wands (optimized for contact<br>with the skin) | Same |
| Energy Flow | Microcurrent continuously<br>alternates between the positive Microcurrent continuously<br>alternates between the positive<br>and negative wands Same | | |
| Energy Output | User adjustable | User adjustable | Same |
| Microcurrent Boost | Yes, Temporary, User<br>controllable | No | Different |
| Energy Power<br>Source | Internal Rechargeable Lithium<br>Ion Battery | Internal Rechargeable NiMH<br>Battery | Different |
| Power Accessories | Device-specific charging cradle | Device-specific charging cradle | Same |
| Charging Method | Wireless charging | Contact charging | Different |
| Charging Circuitry | Internal to Device | Internal to Device | Same |
| Power Supply Type | Pre-approved wall-mount Power<br>Adaptor | Pre-approved wall-mount<br>Power Adaptor | Same |
| Special<br>Requirements | Requires Conductive Gel | Requires Conductive Gel | Same |
| Wireless<br>Technology | Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) | None | Different |
| Output Frequency | Variable | Fixed | Different |
# 8. Qutput Specifications
The Table below reflects the results of the testing performed to demonstrate substantial equivalence to the predicate.
| Item | Subject Device<br>Specification | Predicate Device<br>Specification | Same /<br>Different |
|--------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|---------------------|
| Waveform Type | Pulsed Biphasic | Pulsed Biphasic | Same |
| Shape (e.g., rectangular, spike) | Modulated Square | Modulated Square | Same |
| Item | Subject Device<br>Specification | Predicate Device<br>Specification | Same /<br>Different |
| Maximum Output Voltage | Trinity ELE Plus<br>170 mV @ 500 Ω<br>688 mV @ 2 kΩ<br>3.4 V @ 10 kΩ<br>Trinity ELE Plus Pro<br>208 mV @ 500 Ω<br>840 mV @ 2 kΩ<br>4.3 V @ 10 kΩ | 68 mV @ 500 Ω<br>283 mV @ 2 kΩ<br>1.31 V @ 10 kΩ | Different |
| Maximum Output Current | Trinity ELE Plus<br>243 μA @ 500 Ω<br>245 μA @ 2 kΩ<br>246 μA @ 10 kΩ<br>Trinity ELE Plus Pro<br>297 μA @ 500 Ω<br>299 μA @ 2 kΩ<br>301 μA @ 10 kΩ | 135 μA @ 500 Ω<br>134 μA @ 2 kΩ<br>133 μA @ 10 kΩ | Different |
| Output Tolerance | +/- 10% (RMS) | +/- 2% | Different |
| Pulse Period (Pulse Width) | Varies w/ Frequency<br>(60 msec @ 8.33Hz) | 60 msec | Different |
| Output Frequency (Hz) | 0.3 — 50 Hz<br>(Default 8.3 Hz) | 8.3 Hz | Different |
| For Interferential Waveforms<br>Only | | | |
| Beat Frequency (Hz) | No Beat Frequency | No Beat Frequency | Same |
| For Multiphasic Modes Only | | | |
| Symmetrical Phases | Not Multiphasic | Not Multiphasic | Same |
| Phase Duration | Not Determined | Not Determined | Same |
| Net Charge (µC per pulse) | N/A - Battery Operated | N/A - Battery Operated | Same |
| Maximum phase charge | Trinity ELE Plus<br>14.78 μC @ 10K Ω<br>Trinity ELE Plus Pro<br>18.17 μC @ 10K Ω | 8.08 μC @ 500 Ω | Different |
| Item | Subject Device Specification | Predicate Device Specification | Same / Different |
| Maximum current density | Trinity ELE Plus<br>0.947 mA/cm² @ 10K Ω<br><br>Trinity ELE Plus Pro<br>1.165 mA/cm² @ 10K Ω | 0.519 mA/cm² @ 500 Ω | Different |
| Maximum power density<br>(μW/cm²) | Trinity ELE Plus<br>2.331 mW/cm² @ 10K Ω<br><br>Trinity ELE Plus Pro<br>3.525 mW/cm² @ 10K Ω | 670 μW/cm² @ 500 Ω | Different |
| Burst mode information | | | |
| a. Pulses per burst | 20 | 20 | Same |
| b. Pulses per second | Varies w/ Frequency<br>(8.3 @ 8.33Hz) | 8.3 | Same |
| c. Burst duration (sec) | Varies w/ Frequency<br>(2.4 @ 8.33Hz) | 2.4 | Same |
| d. Duty Cycle (%) | 50 | 50 | Same |
| ON time | Varies w/ Frequency<br>(60ms @ 8.33Hz @ 50%<br>Duty Cycle) | 60ms | Different |
| OFF time | Varies w/ Frequency<br>(60ms @ 8.33Hz @ 50%<br>Duty Cycle) | 60ms | Different |
{6}------------------------------------------------
{7}------------------------------------------------
The Microcurrent Boost can temporarily increase the microcurrent output to a level that exceeds that of the predicate device. However, the increased microcurrent level does not exceed that of a legally marketed reference device with the same intended use and classification, and therefore does not affect the safety and effectiveness of the subject device when used as labeled.
The wireless charging, while different from the contact charging used in the predicate device, only affects the method used to charge the subject device when not in use. Therefore, this difference does not affect the safety and effectiveness of the subject device when used as labeled.
The Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) wireless technology only allows the subject device to communicate with other devices running the NūFACE® App which allows the user to select and run pre-programmed treatment profiles. Since the pre-programmed treatment profiles are already provided in the device software, this difference does not affect the safety and effectiveness of the subject device when used as labeled.
# 9. Non-Clinical Performance Data
9.1. Summary of Testing Performed
A program of design verification and validation testing and evaluation was conducted that includes the following:
- . Biocompatibility Evaluation
# NuFACE®
{8}------------------------------------------------
- Safety, Performance and Bench Testing including EMC
- Software Verification and Validation Testing
# 9.2. Conclusions from Biocompatibility Evaluation
A biocompatibility conclusions summary for the all patient-contacting materials is presented below. These conclusions are described fully in detail in Section 15 of this premarket notification.
| Material | Where Used | Nature of body contact | Conclusion |
|----------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| ABS<br>Thermoplastic | Enclosures (housings) for<br>the subject device main<br>body, the attachment head<br>and the charging cradle. | Surface device, intact<br>skin, limited (<24h)<br>duration. | Biocompatible. This<br>material is used in other<br>FDA-cleared devices. |
| Chromium | Plated over the two precise<br>wands that are part of the<br>attachment head. | Surface device, intact<br>skin, limited (<24h)<br>duration. | Biocompatible. Material<br>and manufacturing process<br>are the same as the<br>predicate. |
### Main Body / Attachment Head / Charging Cradle:
### Wall-mount Power Adaptor:
| 11 111 111 111 111 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 | | | | |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--|
| Material | Where Used | Nature of body contact | Conclusion | |
| ABS<br>Thermoplastic | Power Adaptor main body<br>enclosure. | Surface device, intact<br>skin, limited (<24h)<br>duration. | Biocompatible. The power<br>adaptor is identical to the<br>power adaptor of the<br>predicate device. | |
#### Gel Primer:
| Material | Where Used | Nature of body contact | Conclusion |
|-----------------------|----------------------|----------------------------------------------------------|----------------------------------------|
| NūFACE®<br>Gel Primer | Accessory to device. | Surface device, intact skin, limited (<24h)<br>duration. | Biocompatible. 510K cleared (K161654). |
9.3. Conclusions from Safety, Performance and Bench Testing
The safety and performance testing results for EMC, Wireless Coexistence and bench testing concluded that the Trinity ELE Plus device meets and complies with the safety and performance of the applicable standards and bench testing requirements. These results and conclusions are described fully in detail in Sections 17 and 18 of this premarket notification.
The electrical safety tests for compliance to the ANSI AAMI 60601-1 and IEC 60601-1-11 standards are currently being conducted and will be provided to the FDA before the subject device is released to market.
9.4. Conclusions from Software Verification and Validation
The software verification and validation results concluded that the Trinity ELE Plus device meets and complies with the applicable software requirements specifications. These results and conclusions are described fully in detail in Sections 16 of this premarket notification.
# 10. Animal Testing
The substantial equivalence for the subject device will not be supported by animal testing. Therefore, no animal testing was conducted.
#### NūFACE®
{9}------------------------------------------------
# 11. Clinical Testing
The substantial equivalence for the subject device will not be demonstrated by results of clinical testing. Therefore, no clinical testing was performed.
# 12. Substantial Equivalence
The Trinity ELE Plus device has the same intended use and indications for use as the predicate device. The subject device key technological characteristics are nearly identical to those of the predicate device.
The new Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) wireless connectivity introduced in the subject device design is a widely used multi-industry-proven technology that augments the overall user experience. The results of EMC and Wireless Coexistence testing provided in this premarket notification demonstrate that the new Bluetooth wireless connectivity poses low risk to the user of the subject device.
During design and development, a Risk Analysis of the subject device was used to identify potential Hazards that could occur in use of the device, or in the event of Failure Modes of device components. The risk analysis also included those risks that could potentially be introduced by the addition of the new technological characteristics described above. The Risk Analysis was used to identify risk reduction measures which have been incorporated in the subject device design and labeling. As a result, the residual risks for the Trinity ELE Plus device are low.
# 13. Overall Conclusion
The documentation and test results provided in this submission and comparison of intended use, principle of operation, performance data, design and the overall technological characteristics, demonstrate that the Trinity ELE Plus device is substantially equivalent to the predicate device.
Two short videos show you everything — or skip straight to the written tutorial if you'd rather read. You can reopen this any time from the Tutorial button in the top bar.
Part 1 — Search, results, and everyday workflows 16 min
Part 2 — Embeddings: the galaxy map 3 min
1. Search: exact and fuzzy
Type a phrase like "coronary artery calcification" into the search box. You get two kinds of results. Exact results match the literal phrase — prefix searches work ("coronary artery calcificati") but suffix searches do not. Fuzzy results match on the meaning and intent of your phrase rather than the exact words, and are sorted by relevance score. Hover over the Exact or Fuzzy badge on any row to see exactly why it matched.
Use the checkboxes above the results to narrow: SaMD keeps only software-only devices, AI / ML keeps only devices with AI.
Exact vs. fuzzy search: what's the difference?
Exact matches on the literal phrase (prefix search works, suffix does not). Fuzzy matches on the meaning and intent of the phrase rather than the exact words. Hover over the badge on any row to see why it matched.
You search "coronary artery calcification" and want only software devices with AI. What two filters do you apply?
Narrow by SaMD (software-only devices), then narrow by AI/ML (devices with AI).
2. The results table
Scroll right in the results table. The intended use is extracted for you — no need to open the PDF. The device story gives a high-level snapshot of what the device does and how it's used. The AI Performance sub-table shows each output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, and development/test dataset descriptions — the same format Innolitics uses for regulatory strategy outputs, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. It is AI-generated but has been very reliable in practice.
Where do you find a device's intended use without opening the PDF?
Scroll right in the search results table. The intended use column is extracted for you; no need to dig into the 510(k) summary PDF.
What does the AI Performance sub-table show, and why is it useful?
Output name, acceptance criteria, observed values, development dataset description, and test dataset description. It's the same format we use for regulatory strategy output and Fast 510(k) input, and the fastest high-level fingerprint of an AI device. AI-generated but reliable in practice.
3. Judging fuzzy relevance
Fuzzy results trail off in relevance as you scroll. Use three signals to decide how far down to go: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether your target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, you're past the relevant zone. A top hit with a low score (~0.4) and a stretched explanation is a hint the closest predicates are far away — the project may be headed for De Novo. Note the fuzzy search is a pattern match: it doesn't handle negation ("not") well, and hardware devices can appear — filter by SaMD/AI ML to cut them.
How do you judge how far down fuzzy search results to go?
Use the relevancy signals: the fuzzy badge explanations, the intended use column, and whether the target output (e.g., Cobb angle) still appears in the AI Performance sub-table. Once it stops appearing, results are trailing off in relevancy.
4. Device detail page: chat and citations
Click a device name to open its detail page: device facts on the left, a chat window on the right. Ask something like "Describe the training data". The answer carries little citation bubbles — click one to jump to the highlighted passage in the source PDF, so you can verify every AI answer against the document. There's also a Download PDF button for sharing.
How do you verify an AI chat answer on the device detail page?
Click the citation bubbles to jump to the relevant highlight in the source document.
Reading rule for every project: how many summaries do you read in full?
At least the three most relevant 510(k) or De Novo summaries, in full. After that, use targeted chat questions to confirm your memory quickly. The tool supports this professional habit — it doesn't replace it.
5. Side-by-side comparison
Select multiple rows in the results table (aim for under ~10), then open the PDF Viewer tab. Ask one question — it goes to all selected devices in parallel, each with citations. This is the fastest way to compare and contrast devices: training data, PCCP scope, how they handled adding new scanners, and so on.
What does the side-by-side PDF viewer mode do?
Select multiple devices, open the PDF viewer tab, and ask one question (e.g., "Describe the training data"). It queries all selected devices simultaneously with citations, so you can compare and contrast quickly.
6. Collections
With rows selected, go to the Collections tab and create a labeled collection (e.g., "Cobb Angle Project"). Reload that selection any time — before a client call, pull up the collection and ask questions across all of its devices at once.
How do you save a set of selected devices for later use?
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.