Rail Mounted Controller
Tactical controller for use on rifle rail system.
Overview
The RMC project involved designing a rugged handheld controller that mounted to weapon rails systems so soldiers could control a user interface inside a tactical headset and even control drones. I delivered two generations and incorporated lessons from field testing and feedback.
For RMC1, I was only involved as the mechanical engineer and I designed multiple concepts for who the contoller might be mounted to the firearm's rail system. I worked with the electrical eningeer to define board profiles and placement of large components. I used rapid prototyping methods to quickly iterate on the design and discover what worked best.
By the time RMC2 kicked off, I was responsible for all hardware development and led the electrical and firmware development efforts. I defined product requirements, provided the mechanical design, and managed the electrical design. To fulfill the IP rating requirements, I designed a compression-molded silicone keypad that provided great tactile feedback and was durable. I assembled 30 units and delivered controllers to SOCOM as part of multiple contracts.
Accomplishments
- ✓Led product development for RMC2 from requirements through delivery, coordinating mechanical, electrical, and firmware efforts.
- ✓Engineered a compression-molded silicone keypad that balanced tactile feel with IP-rated performance.
- ✓Iterated through multiple RMC1 prototypes to validate ergonomics and functionality.
Lessons Learned
- •Customer feedback and field testing from early versions are invaluable for improving usability and durability.
- •Managing parallel electrical and firmware development requires clear interface definitions early.
- •Creative solutions were needed to achieve IP ratings with mechanical buttons; multiple material and geometry iterations were required.