Consumer electronics case study
KiteGo Controller
A compact controller shaped through ergonomic refinement, CMF exploration, and manufacturing-aware detailing.
Overview
From controller concept to refined product direction.
The portfolio presents a modern compact controller direction with a softer product language and a more approachable everyday feel.
The work focused on proportion, grip comfort, control layout, surface detailing, color, materials and finishes, and the small decisions that help a concept move toward a manufacturable product.
KiteGo is a portfolio adaptation of an alternative design direction developed during a client controller project. Branding, controls and rear detailing were revised for this presentation.
Lifestyle
Designed to feel natural in daily gaming setups.
Lifestyle views helped explore the controller’s proportions, hand positions and relationship with everyday gaming setups.
Studio
The product form was refined from every major viewing angle.
Detail
Key details were treated as part of the product experience.
The design work balanced soft forms with practical details: thumbstick geometry, shoulder controls, charging access, grip texture, and rear surface treatment.
CMF
Color and material options gave the product a wider range without changing the core design.
Color, materials and finishes explored calm neutrals, darker technical finishes, and softer color directions while keeping the same product identity.
Development
The concept was translated into clearer surfaces, part breaks, and production intent.
Sketches and technical views helped connect early design direction to the decisions needed for CAD refinement, prototyping, and supplier conversations.
Product Development
Two Bluetooth decisions with different consequences.
During the client project behind this portfolio adaptation, Bluetooth raised two separate questions: which devices the controller should support, and how the antenna would work with the aluminum enclosure.
Compatibility shaped the product offer.
The manufacturer presented Bluetooth chip options with different compatibility across Windows and particular Xbox and PlayStation models. Choosing between them meant deciding which devices mattered most for the product.
I worked through those options against the client’s intended customers and business priorities. The component choice affected the product’s compatibility and who it could serve, so I treated it as a product and business decision.
A plastic RF window resolved the enclosure issue.
The manufacturer also raised an antenna issue with the aluminum enclosure, which had walls approximately 2 mm thick.
I researched the problem, identified a plastic RF window as the solution, and selected its location near the Bluetooth antenna. I then worked with the manufacturer to integrate it into the enclosure and obtained the client’s approval.
This resolved the antenna and enclosure issue while retaining the aluminum design and a discreet appearance.
These decisions connected electronics, materials, appearance and the client’s business priorities. I discuss that relationship further in my article on PCB enclosure design.
Outcome
A compact controller direction with a clear product identity, refined ergonomics, and the visual detail needed for manufacturing conversations.
Start a project
Developing a controller or handheld electronic product?
I help founders and product companies connect industrial design, controls, enclosures and electronics integration as a physical product develops.
Explore my industrial design and product development services, or tell me what you’re building.