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XVE RSM (Xtreme Environment)
XVE 500 is crafted to tackle the challenges faced by firefighters and emergency responders head-on, this device goes beyond the conventional. It's not just about functionality; it's a dance between purposeful innovation and hands-on ergonomic considerations. From collaborative sessions across the USA to the final design, the XVE500 stands as a testament to seamlessly merging aesthetics with real-world impact.
Purposeful Innovation
The birth of the XVE500 was rooted in a clear goal—to forge a Remote Speaker Microphone (RSM) that surpassed the needs of firefighters and emergency responders. This phase involved hands-on collaboration and extensive research with various departments across the USA. By creating block models, we tested hand motions, ensuring the design met the specific criteria of firefighter glove use and ergonomic requirements. This pragmatic approach laid the groundwork for purposeful innovation, steering the XVE500 towards a design that genuinely catered to the challenges faced in critical situations.
Generative HF Testing | Body Ergonomics
HF Controls Ergo Testing
INTERFACE INNOVATION
Largest Controls for Firefighter Use
Channel and Volume Switches
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
Two color combination and juxtaposition of ergonomics
Mechanical Refinement
The practicality of the XVE500's design extends beyond visual appeal. Crafted for functionality in work-while-wet scenarios, the Remote Speaker Microphone (RSM) incorporates distinctive features—a 45-degree microphone grill and a flashlight with an innovative reflector. These elements enhance usability in critical situations. The design's ergonomic considerations were validated through collaboration with Motorola engineers, focusing on defining a microphone array to meet stringent beam-forming criteria. This collaborative effort strategically placed five microphones for optimal performance, particularly in work-while-wet conditions. The package studies were a balanced negotiation between design goals and engineering practicality, emphasizing the XVE500's commitment to real-world impact and engineering excellence.
ARCHITECTURE INNOVATION
Work while wet microphone grille
5 mic design for beam forming audio input that works every angle
Light probe integration to design
ARCHITECTURE INNOVATION
User Interface
In the user interface arena, the XVE500 embodies innovation tailored to user needs. Introducing ViQi controls for seamless operations like channel changes and volume adjustments, the device ensures functionality from any angle and amidst background noise, thanks to its strategic arrangement of five microphones. Recognizing the diverse preferences of users, we crafted two versions—one with a tactile knob and another without, providing a personalized interface experience. This design approach echoes the commitment to user-centricity, allowing individuals to choose the interface that aligns with their preferences, exemplifying the XVE500's dedication to an intuitive and adaptable user experience in critical missions.
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