Motorola
HC1 Headset Computer

2008 - 2012

The HC1 is a unique wearable device: a fully rugged mobile computer for the work environment. Through an adjustable optical micro-display, it provides a view equivalent to a 15-inch laptop screen. This allows users access to critical documents, videos and photos, with information displayed just below their line of sight. It is purpose made for workers who need big-screen device capability to view highly complex graphical data or schematics in work environments where carrying a laptop or tablet is not feasible, safe or convenient.

A render of HC1 from the rear on a worn concrete surface
A render of the HC1 'hard' goods and 'soft' goods separated on a concrete surface
3 views of the HC1 showing left to right eye swap function
Side render comparison of a male 95th %-ile vs a female 5th %-ile head size
Top render of HC1 with a left eye vs right eye setup
  • Soft-edge design exploration sketch of HC1
  • Hard-edge design exploration sketch of HC1
  • 'Scoop-out' design exploration sketch of HC1
  • Recessed UI design exploration sketch of HC1
  • 'Cylon-band' design exploration sketch of HC1
  • 'Retro-rugged' design exploration sketch of HC1
  • Softgoods and Main housing design exploration sketch of HC1
  • Softgoods electronics design exploration sketch of HC1
  • ProE / Creo screengrabs of the HC1

    Detail engineering in CAD

  • Screengrab of the 3D model of HC1 in Autodesk Alias software

    Surfacing in Alias

  • White 3D prints of the HC1 on a table

    3D Prints for testing adjustability extremes

  • A woman wearing the HC1 and hardhat looking at cables

    Finished product

Exploded render of over 100 HC1 parts
Transparent and normal plastic HC1 units on a black reflective tabletop