Personal Communication
Anywhere in the World

Communication device which connects to your smartphone, enabling you to use your phone when out of signal of standard networks all around the globe.

Unparalleled Connectivity Using the Iridium Network

Iridium is a global satellite communications company. With its constellation of satellites, it provides access to voice and data services anywhere on Earth. Connecting people and devices in the world’s most remote places.

The SATcase device can be used as a hotspot for your mobile phone to connect to the Iridium network or used independently to contact pre-loaded numbers and make SOS calls. With geolocation users have more security that they can be found and rescued in emergency situations.

SATcase is made for the adventurers and remote workers, keeping them connected to the rest of the world. The device could have military, search and rescue, aviation and nautical purposes, all of which have specific design requirements.

The SATcase is rugged and durable to withstand the harshest conditions. With a IP68 rating the device is dust resistant and can withstand submersion 1.5 meters deep for 30 minutes. The device is built to military standard passing the MIL-STD-810 testing, which determines how equipment holds up under a variety of conditions such as temperature, impact, vibration and humidity. The operation of the device has been considered in detail, simplifying the interactions so it can be used effectively in emergency scenarios. IDC researched and accounted for a range of other interactions such as mounting and button operation in cold conditions.

Iterative validation using IDC’s in-house modelling capabilities

IDC’s process is defined by creating flawlessly functional products. The process starts with sketch exploration quickly ideating and building a picture of the device to move forward.

The ideas generated are validated and tested using our in-house modelling workshop. This ensures the best direction is taken at each step of the process. IDC collaborated with an external electronic engineering team to produce custom componentry giving more control over the design.

Prototyping and Testing to Meet SAR Safety Requirements

SATcase was intended to be the first satellite phone on the Iridium network with an integrated antenna without the user needing to extend it.

Integrating the antenna came with problems for IDC to
solve. These antennas produce radiation due to their high-power output. Specific absorption rate (SAR) testing was needed to ensure user safety given the proximity of their head to the antenna. Test rigs were produced to adjust both proximity and material properties to find a balance of product size, performance and safety. Performance testing of the antenna was carried out in an anechoic chamber prior to real world calls.

One of the key functionalities of the Satcase device is to hold the user’s smartphone. The device is often used in extreme and fast paced scenarios the clamping mechanism needed to be strong and durable whilst offering an optimised user experience.

The IDC mechanical engineering team created a robust solution which will withstand sand and dust. The mechanism has a locking feature to maintain the correct pressure and allow for easier un/docking. Some key considerations for the design were supporting both the smallest device (iPhone Mini) all the way to the largest (Samsung S21 in Juggernaut Case).

The SATcase device is equipped with an SOS button in case of emergency situations. SOS alerts can be sent anytime, from anywhere in the world. They give access to 24/7 emergency assistance in case search and rescue mission are required.

The user interaction with the SOS button was carefully considered by the IDC team. This included ease of operation, button identity and resistance to extreme conditions. The SOS button is covered by a hinged door to stop accidental activation, the button is activated by being held for 3 seconds. Once activated the top light strobes SOS in Morse code. This light also acts as a torch and helps search parties find the user in rescue missions, it can be turned off for stealth situations.