limitless foam core model prototyping and testing to evaluate best ergonomic solution.

AS&E originally asked to develop with pistol grip form. Does pistol grip form the best solution for the 15.5lbs device as client suggested? Does pistol grip the best form to scan narrow spaces like inside of cars or airplane lavatory? Team’s answer was “No”. Team explored variety possibilities and fabricated rough foam core models to evaluate best ergonomic solutions as well as persuade client.

In car test which is one of the primary use case scenario showed that “D” shape handle is the best solution for the scanning narrow space based on it’s compact size than other possible options. Also, “D” shape handle has benefit that effectively disperse weight: it was less heavier feeling than other possible options as well as created less stress on users hands and wrists while scanning.

Exploring ideal form factor and fabricating FDM prototypes to evaluate detailed usability and aesthetic.

As a result of ergonomic study model tests, both client and team agreed to move forward design development based on “D” shape handle. Next challenges were: 1. Best aesthetic with already developed internal components. 2. Effective and safe heat reduction since internal components are generating high temperature heat while they are running. 3. Protection of device considering use environments which is for both indoor and outdoor. Overall design development was proceed based on these challenges and team fabricated weighted FDM models for each design concepts to evaluate detailed usabilities as well as aesthetics.

Nailed down to the best solution and moved forward to DFM.

AS&E and team nailed down final concept that people mostly satisfied for both aesthetic and usability from FDM model tests and was proceed design refinement based on user test feedback. Design team confirmed all design details including part break-ups, surface transitions and assembly strategies before handed off to the mechanical engineering team. Also, design team was closely communicated with mechanical engineering team while they proceed DFM to make sure all design details were correctly maintained.

Mini Z: The world's first handheld X-ray scanner.

The Mini Z designed with simple overall form to emphase main interactive area as well as warning features which are handle, buttons and warning indicators. This design approach can communicate main features with user intuitively to provide universal usability. Series of horizontal openings along internal heat sink components are effectively reducing internal heating. It also protects users’ hands while operating the device. Overmolded front and back covers are easily protecting the Mini Z from any harmful crashes while scanning in narrow spaces.

The Mini Z was world first handheld X-ray scanner that perfectly satisfied both functional and aesthetical requirements based on limitless prototyping and repeated usability tests.