A communication device which connects to users smartphones, enabling them to use their phones when out of signal of standard networks all around the globe through the Iridium satellite network.

Design Team

IDC Team

International product design company, IDC (Industrial Design Consultancy), is excited to have supported the development of SATcase, a revolutionary device that transforms your smartphone into a rugged satellite phone for use anywhere in the world.

The SATcase device connects to smartphones via the SATcase app, enabling calls and texts anywhere in the world. This is achieved by acting as a hotspot which connects to the Iridium Network. Known for its unparalleled connectivity, using its constellation of satellites it keeps people connected even in the most remote places on earth. The SATcase device can also be used independently to contact pre-loaded numbers and make SOS calls. With geolocation can be found and rescued in emergency situations.

SATcase is made for adventurers and remote workers, keeping them connected to the rest of the world. The device would have military, search and rescue, aviation and nautical purposes, all of which have specific design requirements and posed challenges for the IDC team. The SATcase has been designed to be durable and rugged to withstand the harshest conditions. With an 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.

IDC took the project from initial concept ideation, mechanical design and design for manufacture. Using their in-house modelling capabilities, they were able to validate design decisions efficiently. Some decisions were made because of rigorous safety and performance testing, particularly around the antenna. 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.

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 missions 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.

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