Norkn - Streamline 7200

Company Description

Norkn was established to deliver new solutions and alternatives in the mobile data arena; they are dedicated to delivering the very best solutions for your people in the field.

The Problem

It was apparent to Norkn that there was a gap in the market and a growing demand for an inexpensive device that could provide a variety of communication tools and equipment that a field worker might need in the course of their daily duties away from the office, but at the same time stay in touch with and be tracked by the office. Some clip-on devices were found, but these were not thought to be sufficiently rugged, nor could all of the peripherals available as a combined solution into one device so Norkn decided to have their own product designed and manufactured.

The Challenge

This was to create a wireless sleeve for the Blackberry 7290 mobile device in a 12 week time frame from initial concept through to a pre-production prototype.

The specification was for a product that included a bar code scanner, a camera, a GPS module and a touch screen overlay for use with a Blackberry. The concept was to use the Blackberry as a communications interface, providing a two way data link with a back office system and a mobile worker. Communication between the peripherals and the Blackberry would need to be achieved without a physical connection between the Streamline and the Blackberry device.

The Process

The MotionTouch design team worked closely with Norkn to ensure that the functionality of the Blackberry remained intact and that the additional peripherals did not interfere in any way. An in-depth specification document was then produced and the designers set about creating a solution.

The Solution

MotionTouch thoroughly researched the market to find the best components and suppliers to work with on the project. Then the design department worked closely with the electronics team to ensure that all of the requirements were met and that there was a marrying of aesthetics, practicality and functionality.

The Product

The Streamline product is a ruggedised sleeve that provides an effective shell for the Blackberry 7290. It includes a Touch Screen, Camera, GPS and Bar Code Scanner that can communicate with the Blackberry via a Bluetooth interface.

The Blackberry is transformed into an effective tool for the mobile worker and allows them to:

• Have a secure and instantly available link back to his/her office and back end applications
• Collect and transmit data, through manual entry, via the bar code scanner, or by using the camera
• …and the GPS module enables the asset’s position to be determined, either for job location or mapping purposes.

The Outcome

The Streamline is a successful device that is now used around the world, which has successfully extended the functionality of the Blackberry and enabled it to be used in a wider mobile environment.