Main function of Thule Outlink on a hike – feedback for parents and guidance and the feeling of safety for children.
Outlink
Strategic Product Design (APD1)
2025
The Thule Outlink is an orientation device designed for young teenagers who are on the verge of becoming more independent. It helps keeping the orientation, finding the right way outdoors and giving confidence and safety by knowing where parents or travel companions are located. It also offers direct communication via the walkie talkie function. For the parents Thule Outlink provides the security of knowing that the children are still on the move, have passed defined waypoints and will reach the common destination at the right time. This way they can make sure, that their kids learn how to be self sufficient and become independent individuals. It helps letting them go in a time when they start leaving the safe nest.
Nils Heider
Master's Programme in Advanced Product Design
First mockup and functional testings with card board.
First mockup and functional testings with card board.
The device navigates with an analog compass but also adds information using a digital layer.
Thule Outlink can be attached practically and includes a flipping mechanism, ensuring the hands are always free.
The flashlight provides vision when the surroundings get too dark.
The walkie talkie function ensures to always keep in touch when needed but otherwise stays nonintrusive during the hike.
Thule Outlink final concept.
Thule Outlink final concept.
