OMNI
Safety Oriented Mining Equipment
Omni seeks to unify safety and efficiency in the commercial ore mining industry. Omni extends the range of the users capabilities and provides a multi-functional set of tools allowing personnel to work safely, and with confidence.  Ethnographic studies and market research were crucial in understanding user trials and tribulations. 1:1 user testing and prototyping methods were used to validate the final concept. 
User research - Market research - Observational studies - Hand sketching - SolidWorks - Keyshot - Prototyping - Concept Development 
Omni, Senior level thesis project, 8 months, ACIDO rocket show 2020 finalist. Image shows two Omni vehicles working in a mine.
Problem Identification. How might we mitigate occupational hazards in the mining industry? Commercial underground mining is an extremely dangerous occupation with numerous hazards.. Occupational hazards are faced every day by mining personnel and can cause physical, and long term mental harm. Image shows a run down tunnel, a worker undergoing poor safety considerations, a worker wearing a respirator around toxic pollutants, a worker struggling to operate equipment, and a scan of silicosis in the lungs.
Gain Knowledge and empathy. Observational study. By analyzing various tasks and equipment usage, I was able to empathize with the user about the processes and struggles they face on a daily basis.. Image shows navigation through harsh environments, equipment operation, and environmental interaction. Key findings. Mining personnel face a diverse set of challenges. Navigational difficulties and direct exposure to elements are prevalent Lack of specialized equipment to complete tasks efficiently Poor ergonomics and UX considerations. User Persona. Name: Daniel Odell Age: 43 Gender: Male Working hours: 47/week Skills: Hands on, dedication, team player.
Inital concepts. Initial concept proposals provided multiple distinct concepts to aid mining personnel. The chosen concept provides an extension to the users capabilities, and remains compact with multiple functions. Image displays sketches of different mining equipment concepts.
Concept development. Image shows sketches detailing the final concept.
Ergonomic assessment. A 1/12 scale sketch model was created to address final details in a three dimensional space. A full scaled ergonomic buck was created to finalize human centered elements and provide user feedback. Images detail users interacting with rough model. 1st percentile female, 99th percentile male. Image also displays small scaled model finalizing details.
Final design. Omni provides a rotary tool changing system, allowing Omni to accomplish a variety of tasks like bolting, drilling, and surveying. Also providing a protective barrier from the elements.. Image displays two renderings of Omni front and rear view. User standing next to step with hazard lighting. Rotary tool holder. User using ergonomic controls. Medical kit in cockpit.
Final design. Omni provides a safe working experience while building user confidence. The safety features and diverse functionality allow it to fit comfortably in the current product landscape. Image shows single Omni working in a mine shaft.
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