DeFelsko PosiTest LPD– 2016
Low Voltage Pinhole Detector
This device is used to detect holidays (pinholes) and other discontinuities in metal and concrete substrates. DeFelsko's original requirements were for a simple design to allow a wand with a wet sponge to be held against a target, with a minimal display and keypad, easily manageable with a one handed operation.
The usual investigation using sketches and quick models tested the ergonomics and the look. (These are just a few).
The chosen direction comprised a simple curve swept along a shallow arc for a top surface, meeting a more sculpted handgrip form which made up the base. These met at a slim, square side. Comfort and control were critical, so the form was shaped to make the placement of the device in the hand self-evident, putting the control pad in the correct position relative to the hand.
The initial designs sparked enough interest for a request that the design not be given a more sophisticated look. Subtle changes were made to give the design a more three-dimensional appearance, specifically, the form was given a slight “waisting” between the hand hold position and the keypad, increasing comfort and control.
Since water was involved in the device’s operation, the keypad had to be sealed, so a vinyl pad was used. A straight cut allowed the keypad to have a gentle curve: practical, but creating an interesting intersection of rounded handle and keypad cut.
In addition to the form, the graphic impact was also explored, with alternative handset, keypad and key colors tested and reviewed. The final choice provided a distinctive appearance and would ultimately provide a foundation for the appearance of future DeFelsko designs.
The color scheme was liked enough to be incorporated into the DeFelsko website design, providing the image of company and its products with a single identity. While the project was not overly complicated, it was seminal in the development of the DeFelsko product identity.