Ergonomic case for touch screen mobile devices to reduce hand strain.
In 2012 the founder of Wingo approached me to collaborate on a new patented ergonomic case for mobile devices. The aim was to design a product that would provide the right amount of support without straining the hands.
The original product supported the Kindle, but the pivot to iPad was made once it started to dominate the market. For this product, pilot programs with several health providers and other health institutions have been undertaken using the latest iPad Mini.
the initial direction for the case was more a backpack like product attachment to eliminate complexity and weight. To simplify construction the first B2B product generation had a unibody platform integrating key component to keep to product profile simple and reduce cost.
The early folding wings with live hinges would contour the hands and provide a versatile grip in one particular orientation. It remains an ergonomic case even without the use of the wings and when folded in, the case is sleek and remains compact, easy to store.
Early concepts looking at rotating wings that are easy to fold and create a natural stop in the open position.
Folding hinge wing concept using the material mechanical properties to create a simple and slender hinge solution.
ID/UX 3D concepts
ID/ UX Refined 3D Concepts for prototyping
Engineering CAD work showing the assembly of the foldable wings inside the casing backplate
Refined detailing around the main features of the iPad, including a flexible wing module to allow the same grip system to be used on different tablet brand cases. For professional users, slots for a neck / shoulder strap has been added.
Different wing locking mechanisms were tested , including magnets were found to be strong enough to provide good wing support. Ultimately a friction hinge would provide better stability and help convert the wing grips as a kickstand.
ID/ CMF color pallet created in collaboration with locally based trend forecasting agency.