Our Approach
3fD worked closely with Optima from initial concept through to production, leveraging our integrated design and manufacturing model to simplify the process and give Optima complete control over their new product range.
Key objectives:
- Design for inclusivity, ensuring products addressed the challenges faced by visually impaired and infirm users.
- Engineering for assembly and durability, to maintain product quality at scale.
- Supplier alignment, using our established network to manage tooling and production with confidence.
Engineering & DFM Decisions
- Ergonomic design: Enlarged features and tactile controls for easier handling by visually impaired users.
- Maintenance simplicity: Designed for effortless battery replacement and easy lens changes.
- Accessory integration: Included lanyard attachments for safer handling and portability.
- Manufacturing optimisation: Engineered for robust assembly and cost-efficient production.
- Supply chain risk reduction: Utilised 3fD’s integrated design-to-manufacture pathway to manage tooling, suppliers, and production under one roof.
Outcome
- Delivered Optima’s first proprietary range of visual aid magnifiers, transitioning them from product sourcing to brand ownership.
- Addressed key user needs, improving usability, safety, and durability.
- Enabled supply chain confidence, eliminating the risk of single-point failure.
- Created a scalable platform for future product expansion.
- Positioned Optima as a market leader with their own IP and product differentiation.
What We Learned
Empowering a client to own their product range requires more than great design — it requires trusted integration across design, manufacturing, and supply chain management. With full control over their product ecosystem, Optima now has the confidence to grow their range and their brand.
