TLK 100 WAVE
The TLK100 represents a harmonious blend of traditional two-way radio functionality with contemporary design sensibilities, catering to the evolving needs of a modern, mobile workforce. I focused on creating a compact, lightweight form factor, retaining essential tactile elements like the Push-to-Talk button and a streamlined antenna. Distinct from smartphone competitors, TLK100's design emphasizes simplicity and utility, with intuitive controls and a voice-centric interface to enhance user workflow without the distractions of a complex display. The unique, translucent LED display, discreetly integrating into the device's sleek profile, activates only when needed, marrying functionality with a clean, modern aesthetic. This design approach positions the TLK100 as a purpose-built, efficient communication tool, ideal for teams requiring instant, reliable voice connectivity in various work environments.
ARCHITECTURE INNOVATION
50% component reuse from Tonga product
Strategical Antenna Placement for best LTE coverage
LED dot matrix User interface
ARCHITECTURE INNOVATION
Feature Reduction from the Kodiak App and Form Studies
In the first phase of designing the TLK100, our approach was rooted in streamlining and simplifying for efficiency. We started by adapting the Wave application, reducing its features to suit the TLK100’s limited buttons, ensuring the device was user-friendly yet functional. Extensive iterations were dedicated to exploring various button configurations, aiming to optimize the user experience. Parallel to this, we focused on engineering a compact design that enhanced LTE coverage, integrating external antennas for superior connectivity. This phase was a careful balance of form and functionality, where each design decision, from button layout to antenna integration, was meticulously crafted to achieve a sleek, modern aesthetic without compromising on performance and ease of use.
DESIGN EVOLUTION
Respect DL heritage, update with latest MSI design elements
SURFACES
ERGONOMICS
AUDIO TREATMENT
Form Studies: Balancing Aesthetics, Ergonomics
During the form studies phase of the TLK100's design, my focus was concentrated on three pivotal aspects: crafting modern yet robust surfaces, honing the best ergonomics, and emphasizing exceptional audio capabilities. The pursuit of a contemporary aesthetic, balanced with rugged durability, led to exploring various materials and finishes, resulting in a device that looked cutting-edge and felt resilient. Ergonomics were paramount, with careful consideration of the device's shape, weight, and button placement to ensure a comfortable, intuitive user experience. Simultaneously, a significant emphasis was placed on audio treatment, fine-tuning the speaker design and integrating acoustic enhancements to guarantee consistent, high-quality audio, thereby reinforcing the TLK100’s role as a reliable tool for clear, uninterrupted communication.
User Interface Design - Crafting Clarity and Simplicity
In the next crucial phase of the TLK100 design, I dove into the intricacies of User Interface (UI) design. Collaborating closely with the UI team and a notable expert in the field, Sanne Martens, we embarked on the challenge of adapting the Kodiak app’s features to a more streamlined interface. Our goal was to develop an LED dot matrix UI, a choice driven by the need for simplicity and directness in communication. This UI design was not about overwhelming users with information but about conveying exactly what they needed, when they needed it. The LED dot matrix was chosen for its clarity and efficiency, ensuring that the user received essential information in a format that was easy to understand and interact with, even in the most demanding work environments. This phase was a balancing act of reducing complexity while maintaining functionality, all the while ensuring that the user experience remained intuitive and straightforward.
Function Meets Fluidity
In the form detailing phase of the TLK100, my focus was on refining the industrial design surfacing, where the aim was to harmoniously blend fluidity with functionality. Each surface and line transition was deliberately crafted to intuitively guide the user to key functional areas like the Push-to-Talk button, speaker grills, and the channel rocker. This approach was grounded in the principle of 'form follows function', ensuring that every design element not only contributed to the device's sleek, modern aesthetic but also enhanced its usability. The result was a device that felt intuitive and natural in the user's hand, making the TLK100 not just a tool for communication, but an extension of the user's intent and action.
YouTube Famous
The TLK100's journey culminated in a remarkable global impact, showcased through numerous YouTube contents highlighting its exceptional functionality and design. As an industrial designer, it was gratifying to see the device being utilized worldwide, with users appreciating its unique blend of form, function, and connectivity. The TLK100 stood out not just for its design but also for its innovative LTE business model, a pioneering approach in the industry. We created something truly groundbreaking from scratch, leading Motorola to substantial financial success. The combination of device sales and subscription services resulted in a new, lucrative revenue stream. This success story was not just about creating a functional device but about redefining business models in telecommunications, demonstrating the powerful synergy of innovative design and strategic business planning.
