Avalanche Transceiver
Design through to production-ready status
Background
Our client, a provider of interconnect solutions for high-frequency, fiber-optic, and high-voltage technologies, has developed an avalanche victim locator featuring innovative, patented tracking technology.
In addition to conventional magnetic field lines, a GPS grid is established. Using this grid and the patented algorithm, the position of a buried person can be determined very accurately from the very first signal. This saves time (over 30 percent compared to conventional avalanche transceivers) and thus increases the buried person’s chances of survival.
With our expertise in the development of complex devicesthat are produced in high volumes, we consistently address the following key areas:
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High measurement accuracy despite challenging environmental conditions
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Rugged, mass-produced design that complies with the requirementsspecified in ETSI EN 300 718-2
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Design for Manufacturing (DfM) for high-volume production
Challenge
Limited installation space and the target dimensions reduced the design flexibility.
Controls, antennas, electronics, the battery, and the display had to be integrated ergonomically.
Device design, device architecture, materials, and manufacturing processes had to meet the extreme requirements specified in ETSI EN 300 718-2 regarding operational and functional safety, mechanical robustness, water resistance, and weather resistance.
Conflicts of interest arose between:
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Enclosure dimensions and packing density
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Sealing requirements and ease of installation
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Miniaturization and optimal usability
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Plastic housings and extreme environmental conditions
Our contribution
RAKKOON developed the system architecture and the overall device concept.
Key areas
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Device design featuring two-component injection-molded parts for seal and function integration
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Component integration in the housing
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Robust housing structure
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Weight Distribution and Balance
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Selection of processes and materials
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Functional model and prototype construction
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Series development
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Series handover to manufacturing partners
We used two-component injection molding for the two housing shells to resolve a key conflict in requirements:
The soft component integrated into the housing shells serves as an elastic shock absorber, a comfortable grip area, a static and dynamic seal, and a cover for the USB port.
The controls are designed to prevent accidental activation when the device is carried in a holster, jacket pocket, or backpack.
The buttons and switches can be operated easily even while wearing gloves.
The display cover, which takes up the entire front of the device, is made of a material that combines excellent optical properties with extreme scratch-resistance, and the ability to withstand the extreme environmental conditions found in the mountains.
Result
The result was a reliable, compact, and robustly designed avalanche transceiver.
The manufacturer successfully established a new product category.