Paris
A modular, adjustable monitor arm for use with up to six screens
Client
Year
Brief
2018 - 2020
Metalicon (Arrow Group)
Conceive and produce a novel monitor arm system, that offers users a more involved level of customisation. To be successful, the solution needed to:
Allow components to be assembled in whatever configuration suits the consumer.
Facilitate the assembly of multiple monitors and laptops.
Incorporate exciting, patentable features and mechanisms.
Offer multi-axis adjustment.
Be compatible with a standard VESA mounting plate.
Outcome
Took Paris from initial concept, through to a fully realised design ready for manufacture. Underwent exhaustive prototyping to conceive multiple patentable features, and were responsible for full production engineering.
The project has been taken through to manufacture, with a complete set of technical documentation, production drawings, and assembly instructions produced in-house. We supported the client in communications with their existing supply chain. Early production samples of the design have been being created in preparation for full scale manufacture in the future.
Key Design Features
Patented universal joint connecting all mounting components
Omnidirectional precision monitor adjustment
Secure mounting on desks from 18 – 40mm thick
Capacity for 6 x 27” monitors
Minimal cable tidy features
Integrating Novel Mechanisms
The final solution comprises multiple unique and patentable mechanisms that separate it from competitors. The standout inclusion is the universal joint which underpins the entire ethos of the product. The joint makes assembling and modifying the product straightforward, and reduces the number of unique components required to expand the range. The result of this is a cost effective solution that doesn’t compromise on functionality.
By conceiving and implementing these features, we built additional value into the product that was not initially requested, helping Metalicon to improve their position in the market and establish themselves as a forward thinking, design led company.
Developing a Cohesive Aesthetic
A key differentiator of the Paris Arm is its refined and elegant aesthetic. Where many competitors appear bulky and functional, the smooth form and consistent design language of Paris presents a cohesive and attractive visual.
A lot of effort was put into ensuring the arms felt light and took up minimal visual space, whilst maintaining the strength required to support a monitor at full stretch. The slot cutout was key to achieving this, a motif that is then repeated throughout the product to tie individual elements together.
The care and attention paid to the aesthetics of this product ensure that it stands out in the market, and help to celebrate the novel functionality that elevates the value proposition.
Refinement Through Prototyping
In use, the monitor arm is exposed to a consistently high load. This means that components need to be durable, and mechanisms need to operate smoothly. Throughout development, we produced a multitude of prototypes to test this, ranging from in-house 3D prints to complex machined aluminium rigs.
The height adjustment mechanism was refined by prototyping and testing several iterations of the concept. This enabled weaknesses to be highlighted, modified, and retested quickly until the production design was realised. This approach was applied to the rest of the product to ensure the final offering was reliable and considered.
Designing with Production in Mind
A multitude of different materials and processes have been used in the production of Paris, from injection moulding and die casting, to laser cutting and extrusion. It requires an in depth understanding of their requirements and limitations to deliver effective parts that function as expected. Each component has been optimised to ensure it is suitable for the relevant process, and meets the financial requirements of the project.
To ensure the parts are made within tolerance, full production documentation was created for each component and shared with the manufacturing team. This level of attention to detail helps to keep a project on track, and ensures that the client is in the best position to launch the product at their discretion.
