Case Studies
SEAVU
A revolutionary platform bringing cutting-edge underwater videography within everyone’s reach.
The SEAVU Explorer is the first product that makes underwater live-viewing and videography from a boat truly accessible to consumer markets.
Designed for a wide range of use cases, from boating and fishing to research and documentary filmmaking, it enables users to connect with the mysteries of the deep from the comfort of their boat.
Services delivered
- Concept Development
- Industrial Design
- Product Engineering
- 3D rendering
- Prototyping
- Environmental Testing
- Manufacturing & Sourcing
Project goals
SEAVU’s main goals were to fill a gap in the market for underwater and fishing camera technology while also making it more accessible to consumers.
- Bring cutting-edge underwater videography within everyone’s reach.
- Provide a more cost-effective platform for consumers.
- Allow users to connect their existing devices for underwater filming (even if they aren’t inherently waterproof).
- Support deeper underwater exploration.
- Adapt to a diverse range of use cases and industries (fishing, marine research, documentary making).
Features
- IP68 waterproof case.
- Compatible with smartphones, tablets or laptops.
- Also compatible with any off-the-shelf action camera like GoPro, Insta360 and DJI.
- Supports depths up to 50 metres.
- Passive WiFi Extension Antenna for live streaming up to 27 meters underwater.
- Real-time filming and monitoring capabilities.
- Modular accessory clips that enhance versatility and adaptability for various use cases.
Results
Marine Research and Conservation
- Rescue Operations: Played a role in the Sea World Foundation’s third and most intricate whale disentanglement operation of the migration season, contributing to the successful rescue of an eight-metre humpback whale off Iluka, Northern NSW.
Awards and Recognition
- Core77 Design Award – Won in the A/V & Photography Equipment category in 2023.
- Victorian Premier’s Design Awards – Recognised for its design and societal impact in the product design category.
- Good Design Award – Won an award for excellence in product design and innovation, particularly in making underwater live-viewing accessible to consumer markets.
- Received significant recognition within the marine research community for contributions to marine conservation and documentary filmmaking.
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About the project
Requirements
We worked closely with the client to identify their exact feature requirements. Once the must-have, potential and nice-to-have features were clarified, we then analysed their existing components and PCBs.
By taking the time to understand the existing product design deeply, we were able to identify flexible and economical design solutions to achieve EWS’ goals. We also identified new areas in the designs that could be adapted to meet the new aesthetic goals of each product line.
In particular, our process uncovered (and delivered) the following requirements:
- 2x antenna options (cellular and satellite)
- An external contingency antenna option for applications with poor reception
- IP68 rating and waterproofing
- Bluetooth pairing options
- Rechargeable and replaceable battery options
- Accounting for the sensitivity of the sensor mounting materials to ensure accurate readings
- Practical PCB mounting designs that are easy for technicians to work with in the field
Concept Design
Once we clarified the essential requirements, our team delivered multiple rounds of concepts. We iterated the design, improving the concept through our collaboration with the three key stakeholders involved in the project: the client, the plastics manufacturer and the electronics designer.
Our renders helped the client visualise potential ways the new components could look and how we could blend their requirements with practical functionality.
We presented a range of renders to visualise the intended aesthetics along with renders of the rough concepts indicating placements of switches, cables, mounting solutions and more.
Engineering
There were many design challenges we needed to address through careful and deliberate engineering. In particular, our precision engineering approach solved the following challenges:
- Tight space and design limitations, especially for the VWT design.
- Limiting the amount of plastic components used.
- Ensuring our designs did not require new injection moulds, which can be costly.
- Maximising commonality between parts and accessories across the entire product range.
- Finding a more economical and elegant solution to ensure an IP68 waterproof rating.
To achieve an IP68 rating and make the design waterproof, the client’s initial design required each device to be filled with resin. This solution meant that parts could not be adjusted later on, not to mention it was rather costly!
Our expert team explored many alternative solutions to assist the client. Our final design is able to be waterproofed easily by technicians out in the field with minimal use of specialist tools and components.
Prototyping
The final design we created was easily prototyped and tested. Using two of our 3D printers, we tested and improved the prototypes in-house.
We started by implementing our rapid prototyping process to test the designs for size and the key requirements in the client’s brief. Due to the tight fit we needed to achieve, we iterated our design in stages to ensure the optimal balance between aesthetics and functionality.
Our resin printer was then able to create high-quality, detailed prints that accurately reflected the final product. Due to the nature of the environments these products are installed in, we tested the strength and toughness of different materials.
In the end, we recommended glass-filled nylon for the plastic components to achieve a rugged and UV-resistant exterior. We also recommended a number of options for internal components, like SS316 marine-grade fasteners, to further enhance the product’s technical features in an elegant and economical way.
Manufacturing
The final step in our end-to-end process was to see the products through to manufacturing. We collaborated closely with the client’s Perth-based manufacturer to ensure all components were created exactly as the client envisioned. We also assisted with the design of rubber seal components ensuring a snug fit and maintaining the essential IP68 rating of the product range.
The new products have since been launched internationally. The first production run included over 500 units produced. And we’re proud to see EWS’ products earning recognition from Austrade for the safety and sustainability improvements they deliver!
Why Our Clients Love Working With Us
Why Choose Us?
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Work with our directorsBy choosing Paraform, you can rest assured knowing our knowledgeable directors are overseeing your project from start to finish.
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Reduce defectsBy taking the time to test the nuts and bolts properly, we can assure you of a higher-quality product that’s well-crafted and unparalleled.
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Nimble processesWe’re a lean product engineering team based in Melbourne, and we pride ourselves on working quickly and efficiently at every stage.
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End-to-end servicesNo matter what stage your product idea has reached, we can help you bring a new product to market from the ground up, pronto.
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