LifeLight
LifeLight is a compact, all-in-one safety light designed for RNLI lifeboat crews, integrating simply onto a life jacket to enhance visibility and coordination during search and rescue operations.
Developed as a fast-paced, one-month PCB-focused project, the aim was to create a reliable lighting solution that supports crew identification in low-light conditions while also functioning as a high-visibility aid during rescues. The product combines practicality with simplicity, ensuring it can be easily operated in high-pressure scenarios.
The design process began with quick, simple sketches, focusing on creating a form that would not be bulky or interfere with lifeboat operations. Early concepts explored more organic, spill-like forms, but these were refined into a more controlled, boxy geometry with large radii. This final direction balanced a sleek, low-profile appearance with manufacturability in mind, resulting in a compact and unobtrusive design suited for a life jacket.
LifeLight was a rapid-prototyping project specifically to use a custom PCB and a simple, intuitive button to control lighting sequences. The enclosure was engineered with manufacturing considerations in mind, incorporating features such as internal ribs to increase structural strength without adding unnecessary material. This approach allowed for a lightweight yet durable form, optimised for real-world use while demonstrating an understanding of efficient design for manufacture and assembly.
The product was also designed with serviceability in mind, allowing for easy disassembly using four screws for access to internal components such as the PCB and battery. While not fully implemented within this prototype, a real-world version would incorporate a rubber gasket seal to achieve an IP68 rating, ensuring full waterproofing and protection during harsh marine operations.
