Rugged reliability meets covert precision.
British Aerospace Engineering (BAE) required a low cost infrared camera capable of enduring extreme conditions while delivering high quality imaging for surveillance missions. The device needed multisource power support, submersible, and ergonomic adaptability.
Research Insights & Discovery
Key Outputs
- Emotional journey mapping
- Psycho-Aesthetics® 2.0 Map
- Opportunity Areas & Design Criteria
RKS applied its Psycho‑Aesthetics® methodology to uncover emotional and functional needs of law enforcement users. Through on site interviews and field observations, the team identified critical factors like ease of use, operator confidence, and situational adaptability under stress. The project mapped to the enriched quadrant in the PA Map, balancing performance and emotional reassurance.
How We Used Psycho-Aesthetics™ to Identify Unique Opportunities in the Project.
Using our proprietary Psycho-Aesthetics® 2.0 framework, we conducted in-depth interviews and ethnographic observation in diverse lab settings. We identified key emotional and usability pain points, such as intimidation with complex interfaces, workspace clutter, and trust in precision. These insights guided both the form and interface strategy, ensuring approachability and confidence in operation.
Industrial Design Concept Development
Key Outputs
- CAD models with multi mode grip geometries
- CMF Strategy
- Configurable handle and eyecup modules
A high impact polycarbonate housing with TPE over mold ensured drop and immersion resistance. RKS designed a versatile form supporting multiple configurations: handheld grip, pole mount, or tactical use with eyecup and optics. The articulating handle and removable eyecup enabled flexible use in variable lighting and deployment scenarios.
Engineering Validation
Key Outputs
- Rugged prototypes
- Rapid prototyping for handle and eyecup
- Validation Reports
Engineers tested for durability, drop resistance from 3 ft onto concrete and immersion to 3 ft for up to 30 minutes. The design accommodated different power sources (battery, wired, vehicle mounts) and provided seamless integration into varied field setups. Functional prototypes validated ruggedness and usability in real world scenarios.
Key Outcomes and Results
Key Accomplishments
- Operators report heightened trust in gear under pressure
- Configurable for multiple use cases
- Appreciated by operators for ergonomic form factor
Final industrial design and tested prototype delivered to BAE Systems for production ready deployment in law enforcement and surveillance missions.
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