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APX NEXT XE (Xtreme Environment)
APX NEXT XE portable two-way communication device was developed specifically for the mission-critical needs of firefighters and emergency responders. It helps users manage confusion and uncertainty in critical incidents by providing constant connection with team members and command centers. Instant communication and coordination increase situational awareness and is a crucial element for the protection of lives and property. The immediacy of voice communication and smartphone intelligence are uniquely integrated into a rugged package recognized as an essential element in the first responder’s toolkit.
Crafting APX NEXT XE: Easing Firefighter Interaction
In the initial Research phase, I actively engaged in firefighter training sessions in Chicago, immersing myself in the challenges they face daily. Recognizing that any additional task for a firefighter introduces friction, I honed in on three key interactions. We introduced larger, tactile controls to facilitate seamless gloved use, revamped the interface for optimal clarity in diverse conditions, and pioneered ViQi voice control. These weren't just technological upgrades; they were strategic solutions aimed at reducing friction points and ensuring the device seamlessly integrates into the demanding firefighter environment. This phase laid the groundwork for a purpose-built device, prioritizing functionality to enhance safety and performance.
INTERFACE INNOVATION
Largest Controls for Firefighter Use
Glovable Touch Screen
Interactive Voice Control
Design and Prototyping - Tackling Challenges, Perfecting Form
In the design and prototyping stage, a significant challenge emerged—fitting the distinctive "XE controls" and bumper into a more compact platform. This intricate process involved countless iterations and prototyping efforts. The bumper's integration was a pivotal aspect, ensuring it seamlessly melded with the overall design, adhering to the clean lines and modern design language. My collaboration with the outstanding Mechanical Engineering team played a crucial role in determining the precise specifications for each control—size, shape, tactility, and force—all aimed at delivering an optimal control design. The journey encompassed over 100 design iterations, and working closely with "in-house customers" provided invaluable insights for refining and validating each iteration.
DESIGN LANGUAGE
Legacy Design Elements
(Speaker / PTT DNA)
Rugged but defined Design Language
Size Volume Perception Reduction with design tricks
Legacy Design Elements
(Speaker / PTT DNA)
Rugged but defined Design Language
Size Volume Perception Reduction with design tricks
Mechanical Refinement and Rugged Design Integration
Working closely with my mentor Billy Robertson (ME guru) and our skilled Mechanical Engineering team, we fine-tuned the industrial design to meet rigorous mechanical demands. Our key move was integrating a rubber bumper into the main chassis, significantly improving impact absorption. Lifting the chassis above the glass display wasn't just about aesthetics; it boosted Gorilla Glass performance by 50%. To meet NFPA standards, we engineered a version with minimal fragile-colored plastic, ensuring the device excelled in extreme conditions—a remarkable -20 degrees operation and surviving a 40 feet drop.These enhancements solidified the APX NEXT XE as the leader in radio performance in its category.
ARCHITECTURE INNOVATION
Utilize APX NEXT for platform and reuse but meet Fire requirements
Introduce Rubber Bumper for extreme drop performance
(-20 degree 40 feet drop)
Meet NFPA requirements
Crafting Mission-Critical Interface
Collaborating seamlessly with the UI/UX teams, we spearheaded the development of a purpose-built interface framework for the APX NEXT, tailored specifically for mission-critical scenarios. We evaluated diverse touch target sizes that seamlessly integrated with the display and form factor, including left and right scroll options and edges around the display, ensuring an optimal user experience. Working with software developers, we meticulously crafted and defined 87 voice commands such as "change my channel" and "change volume" to empower users with efficient and hands-free control, enhancing the radio's adaptability to dynamic public safety needs. This concerted effort resulted in a cutting-edge user interface that seamlessly blends functionality with user-centric design.
Crafting Device Ecosystem
Beyond the device itself, my influence extended to shaping a comprehensive accessory ecosystem for the APX NEXT XE. This encompassed ingenious solutions like a single-unit charger, multi-unit charger, NFPA batteries, plastic in-box carry solutions, and a specially crafted in-box carry case featuring a swivel D ring on the back. Listening to user insights, particularly observing some customers modifying holsters with keychain hooks, we incorporated this feedback and patented the addition of a swivel D ring to the holster. To enhance the durability of plastic components, I introduced a design with integrated plastic ribs, forming a skeleton shape that not only delivers exceptional robustness but also communicates a sense of strength and reliability.
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