Aptix Watchband
The challenge was to design and manufacture a ratcheting system for wrist straps, specifically for watchbands, ensuring a perfect fit every time. The system needed to be user-friendly, universally compatible with all wearables and watches, and cost-effective to achieve a 60% profit margin.
My Role in the Project
As the lead engineer and founder of Aptix, LLC, I spearheaded the research, design, and development of the ratcheting buckle system. I handled prototyping, injection molding design, and coordinated with vendors for production, while also drafting patents to protect the intellectual property.
Target Users and User Testing
The target users are watch enthusiasts and consumers seeking comfortable, adjustable, and stylish watchbands that perfectly fit various wrist sizes and watch types effortlessly.
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Early prototypes revealed issues with the ratchet’s ease of use and strap material. User feedback indicated the watchband was too rigid and looked like a children’s toy. I then swapped out the band material for the material Apple watchbands are made of, improving user experience and reliability.
Preliminary Work and Challenges
I conducted market research to identify consumer preferences for watchband adjustability and compatibility. Initial sketches and CAD models were developed, followed by finite element analysis (FEA) to ensure durability. Multiple prototype iterations (V1-V4) were created using 3D printing to refine the ratcheting mechanism.
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Key challenges included achieving universal compatibility with watch designs, minimizing manufacturing and BOM costs, and ensuring the mechanism was intuitive and fully functional. The design needed to balance aesthetics, durability, and cost without compromising functionality.
Final Product and Discussion
The final product is a patented, micro-adjustable ratcheting buckle system integrated into a watchband, successfully manufactured via injection molding. It offers universal watch compatibility, a sleek design, and a user-friendly adjustment mechanism.
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This project taught me the importance of iterative prototyping and user feedback in achieving a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Successfully patenting and manufacturing the design reinforced my skills in product development and vendor coordination, culminating in a market-ready product with high consumer appeal.