Hearable Case

A product designed at the intersection of medical and consumer tech




When hearing aids meet wireless earbuds


Over 48 million Americans have some degree of hearing loss, but only 20% of those who would benefit from a hearing aid end up using one. That’s why Nova designed their own non-medical grade hearing aid concept, plus a charging case that emulates portability and convenience.
















Design Goals




Inspiration



Soft round forms. Minimal surfacing. Bold accents.





Rapid Ideation




Initial CAD



Internal Configurations
Rapid Forms


6 Narrowed Concepts





Prototypes



Concept A
“Rocker Case”
Concept B
“Clamshell Case”
Concept C
“Pill Case”
Concept D
“Upright Case”
Concept E
“Rotating Case”






User Validation

The 6 initial prototypes were lined up in front of several users who gave their opinions on aesthetic, ergonomics, and functionality.
















Post Feedback:

The design team decided to parallel path development of the Rotating Case and the Pill Case.















Refinement

Rotating Case

Prototype scaled up, changed proportions, and tested various internal surfaces. The final prototype tilted internal configurations for a smooth inner surface.




Final Prototype Pill Case

Prototype scaled up, became rounder, and adjusted internal surfacing for more clearance. The final prototype also had a hidden hinge for a cleaner look.




Final Prototype




Final Direction


Ultimately the Rotating case was chosen for the final design due to its ability to be opened with one hand. The configuration of the pill case also required users to switch hands when taking out both hearables, which proved to be uncomfortable in certain scenarios.



One-handed open = easier access 




Two-handed open = less efficient







CMF






Branding

Initial Logo Ideation



Refined Concepts



Final Direction










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Contact Info
kaylae.baah@gmail.com