The QGA 2.0 Project – Hiden Analytical

Inspiring Scientific Innovation Through Design

At 4D Products, we’re passionate about transforming complex technologies into user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing products. Our latest collaboration with Hiden Analytical on their QGA 2.0 quadrupole mass spectrometer is a testament to our commitment to design that not only looks good but performs brilliantly.

Hiden Analytical, a leader in high-tech instruments for research and industrial applications, needed a design that would revolutionise the user experience while upholding the device’s powerful capabilities.

Initial Discovery and Concept Design

The project began with an in-depth evaluation of the existing QGA technology. Our goal was to thoroughly understand the internal electronics and operational needs of the QGA 2.0 to ensure the new design would enhance every aspect of the user experience.

Collaborating closely with Hiden’s team, we delved into the nuances of the spectrometer’s use in advanced research and process monitoring, ensuring our designs aligned perfectly with the needs of end-users in these demanding environments.

Understanding the Core, Designing the Future

From this rich foundation of knowledge, we crafted a series of concept designs. Each concept was aimed at pushing the boundaries of what a quadrupole mass spectrometer could look and feel like.

Our designs were not only about enhancing visual appeal but also about creating a lighter, more compact, and environmentally friendly device. Hiden’s team was engaged every step of the way, selecting their preferred elements that we then refined into a cohesive, functional design.

Design Development and Rendering

Bringing Precision to Life

With a clear design direction in hand, our team moved forward with advanced 3D CAD modelling. This stage transformed sketches into detailed digital models, allowing us to explore every angle and junction with precision. The detailed assembly not only helped in visualising the product but also played a crucial role in discussions with suppliers to streamline the prototyping and manufacturing processes.

To aid in marketing and further development discussions, we produced high-quality rendered visuals. These images showcased the QGA 2.0’s new design in its intended colours, finishes, and branding details, providing a compelling preview of the upcoming product.

Prototyping and Production

Testing and Perfecting the Vision

The transition from digital models to physical reality was facilitated by our comprehensive set of 3D data and detailed working drawings. Hiden utilised these resources to refine their prototypes, leveraging both their in-house capabilities and their established supplier network. This iterative process of prototyping was crucial in fine-tuning the design to perfection.

Once the prototypes met all functional and aesthetic criteria, the QGA 2.0 moved into full production. The final product has not only met but exceeded expectations, drawing significant attention within the scientific community for its innovative design and enhanced usability.

Mass Production and Market Introduction – Achieving Excellence at Scale

Confident in the design and its market potential, Nouveau Lashes moved forward with mass production. The new LVL Smart Shields were not just a product; they were a promise of excellence, embodying precision engineering and user-centric design.

As the product hit the market, it was met with enthusiasm from both technicians and clients, reinforcing Nouveau Lashes’ position as an innovator in the beauty industry.

A Beacon of Collaborative Success

The QGA 2.0 project is a prime example of how 4D Products blends innovative design with practical functionality to meet complex scientific needs.

As noted by John Miller, Mechanical Design Manager at Hiden Analytical, we “were chosen as a professional and highly experienced product design consultancy.  The design scope was thoroughly explored and the final design concept delivered. Thank you for your design collaboration on this project, I’m sure you will agree the end result looks impressive”.

At 4D Products, we are dedicated to turning sophisticated engineering into accessible and attractive solutions. The QGA 2.0 stands as an example of our capabilities, ready to empower researchers and professionals with a tool that is as efficient as it is engaging.