A satelite Relay for smartphone. Somewear Labs re-approached Herbst after a round of alpha testing and accelerator funding to complete a consumer ready version of their technology on a short time for an upcoming kickstarter.
Research Synthesis_
Sketch/CAD ideation_
3D Print Mockups_
Product Renders_
Satellite phones are cumbersome, expensive and limited in function. Creating a simple, lightweight mobile solution would push satellite relays from luxury tech to staple survival tool. Decoupling interfaces from the hardware by harnessing the built-in systems of smart phones would save size and cost while providing seamles coverage; whether meeting up with friends in the backcountry, getting storm conditions from the local ranger, or calling in some backup. All it takes is a phone and our relay
Purposeful design around affinity and consumer mapping stipulated the importance of prioritizing ergonomics and intuitive use:
Consideration of market space, legibility, and utility circumscribed a target form balancing the outdoors and tech:
