Portable Optometry Kit

Eyenetra is a Khosla-backed startup that builds portable optometry tools to make eye exams more accessible and affordable. We were asked to translate their complex mechanical designs into a fully realized product that is easy to use and understand, with a form language that balances clinical precision with consumer approachability.

The main tool from the optometrist's office — known as a Phoropter — was reduced in size and weight by Eyenetra's engineers to become portable. I was given a functional assembly of gears and lens carriages at project start.

My process relied heavily on fast, rough prototypes to explore many aspects of holding and viewing the device, with a new prototype daily during this phase. I was also in daily collaboration with Eyenetra's lead mechanical engineer to discuss the tradeoffs learned from each prototype.

The original prototype had knobs, dials, and levers for various controls, some of which were along the sides where the customer would need to hold the device. The new design utilizes knobs across all controls, placed front and center for clear access by the optometrist while the customer holds it. Two paddle-like handles provide a steadier grip for customers while pulling their hands and fingers away from the controls.

Precision and confidence are built into every detail — a strict system of spacing and alignment that required tight collaboration with engineering to push and pull internal gears and lenses into place.