VIEVU
Body-worn camera and evidence management company focused on products for police officers.
As the sole product design mechanical engineer at VIEVU, I designed the LE5 generation of cameras, the ClipLock attachment system, and many new mounting and docking options with the VP of Engineering/Technology and offshore manufacturer. I am listed as an inventor on the patents filed for the ClipLock system and the Uniform Clamp mount. I was also responsible for sustaining engineering on older cameras and accessories.
The LE5 cameras featured many improvements over the previous LE4 and LE3 cameras. Most obviously, a guard was added around the perimeter of the slide switch zone to prevent accidental actuation and to keep things like seat belts from getting under the switch. We moved from an aluminum body to PC-ABS to resolve the downsides of aluminum — primarily weight, cost, and durability. I redesigned the slide switch mechanism for the LE5 to provide a more tactile feel and consistent operation. We also fit a larger, better camera sensor, an internal speaker, and USB-C power/data connector, among other improvements. Recording life was a significant concern for customers so the necessary battery capacity, and therefore physical size, was the most important factor in the final dimensions and weight of the cameras.
In order to work with the wide variety of uniforms out there, we realized we needed more mounting options and a quick-attach system to easily switch between them. ClipLock was developed to solve this, providing users with a way to conveniently and securely attach and remove their cameras. By evaluating uniforms from several agencies and taking in user feedback, we created an assortment of new attachment options, such as the uniform clamp, magnet mount, and belt mount. With ClipLock, we were able to make some of these mounts semi-permanent as users now had a way to remove just the camera at the end of the day, leaving the mounts attached to their uniform.
VIEVU was a great and unique experience in several ways. Besides being the pioneers of body-worn cameras, our small team stayed at the top of the market and hugely influenced the state of both cameras and data management. Knowing that what I worked on directly helps communities around the world was very gratifying.
LE5 Body-Worn Camera
Full-featured BWC with FHD video recording, 12hr full-shift battery life, pre- and post-recording, extendable antenna, and more.
The defining feature of the camera is the central slide switch for activation which is easy to use, provides tactile feedback, and assures the user that the camera is recording.
LE5 LITE Body-Worn Camera
Smaller, simplified camera featuring FHD video recording and 6hr battery life. Retains the signature slide switch to initiate recording.
ClipLock System
Attachment system that allows for quick and easy removal of the camera from the mount.
The T-adapter on the back of the camera fits into the slot on the mount. The camera is then rotated 90° and pulled down to securely lock it in place.
Several features on both the T-adapter and mounting plate prevent the user from turning or sliding in the wrong direction and ensure a tight fit in the locked position.
[images property of VIEVU LLC]