Case Studies

Develop the next generation power saw that would improve margins and raise sales volume.  Construction workers purchase their own power tools, so the research HLB did focused on their needs, preferences and price sensitivity as a top priority. We also evaluated all of the geographic areas in which the saw would be sold.

The HLB design Fact Plus system addressed the user control issues by creating non-slip, ergonomic gripping point that optimized the user’s control and access to the urine stream. Both a tool and an interface, the product needed to be easily read.

HuFriedyGroup’s designers, engineers, researchers, and SME’s collaborated with HLB to create the measuring devices and system that would allow HuFriedyGroup to test and measure the effectiveness of scalers with different design features. Iterative designs coupled with a defined measuring process were used to improve the scaler’s effectiveness.

The challenge was to create a suite of infant care products that would provide more value to the consumer and differentiate the brand from price based competition. These infant care products became a commercial success and were endorsed for “toddler wellness and safety” by the American Red Cross. 

Develop a device to keep the heart stable and easily accessible during off-pump coronary artery bypass surgeries (OPCAB). HLB developed a full 360 degree rotation/tilt for optimal visualization and access to the arteries. Embrace has been honored by BusinessWeek as an IDEA Gold award winner for design and excellence and impact.

Create a better, more ergonomically useful set of products for Smith & Nephew that would command a premium in a commodity category. Created an inspired new design for the Journey surgical line, with the usability and aesthetics one expects of an industry leader.

For a long time, brain-data assessments devices fell into one of two categories. They were either too big and expensive or too small and rudimentary. Everest (now BrainScope) sought to change this.

Using Bunn’s patented combination of “time, temperature and turbulence,” the unit was designed to brew coffee in about 30 seconds and steep a cup tea in just about 50 seconds.

Transform a single-purpose, utilitarian device into a complex, compelling, and cohesive multi-use environment. Create a humanized design that enriches the experience of all who were involved with it at all levels, including factory staff, retailers, repair persons, and users.

HLB with the direction of ROAN Tools immediately set out to identify user work environment issues, processes, concerns, and needs. HLB researchers submersed themselves within the world of the user and was able to quickly identify that the desired solution must not require the use of a respirator or additional vacuum devices.