Electronic Product Design

Products with an electronics based function change the emphasis of the design project. The electronic aspects are handled in the much the same way as a stand-alone design solution. The main differences are that the user interaction and perceived values drive a revised priority tree. The altered priories may make strategic changes to the approach and the eventual outcome.

Product Design

In the context of a product design, the electronics is analogous to the modern car engine. We want to know that it is there and doing its job but once we close the bonnet (hood) it should operate flawlessly and draw no attention to itself. An electronic circuit, once enclosed in its product form, should provide all the function without a second thought from the user.

Electronic Products range from highly designed devices such as mobile phones to utilitarian grey boxes housing industrial electronics in a factory environment. At both ends of this spectrum the case and the protection afforded by it are highly relevant. Size, aesthetic requirements and the needs for display(s), sockets, buttons and user access all have dominating roles in the formation of the internal electronics.

The electronic design software in use should support 3-D modelling of the components and circuit board. When this information is input during the early stages of the design, there is a much improved overall design and substantially reduced risk to misfits and clashes. Apparently, there is a temptation to conduct the electronic design without the extra effort of 3-D models… Once the project moves from the computer screen to the real, tangible world, it is most likely that the value of this extra effort is rewarded.

More Than Product Design

If the product in question is to reach a consumer-type or untested market, the scope of the work may well extend to:

• Industrial design - form/function colour etc, tooling drawings, materials choices
• Visualisations “pictures”/renderings of the product for market assessment, brochures, website, attracting investment
• Market research test the market size, potential price, user preferences

Experience in Electronic Product Design goes beyond the realm of taking a design solution and “fitting it into a box”. There are many inter-disciplinary and process considerations. The right design facilities, with good integration and real experience can mitigate substantial risks in technology and manufacture.

Market Research

Market research forms a critical part in defining what the product should be. Correct use of design (industrial & electronic) will yield that outcome and ensure that the product meets or exceeds the market need. This creates demand and ultimately offers the return on the design investment.

 

If you have an idea for a product you would like to explore with us, contact us now.