Ape Crafts, a forward-thinking brand, identified a significant gap in the home decoration and measurement tool market. While existing products emphasized functionality, they lacked smart, user-centric design elements. Seeking to bridge this gap, Ape Crafts collaborated with LKK Design to develop a groundbreaking product—the Ape Crafts Smart Ruler. This handheld laser rangefinder was envisioned not just as a tool but as a portable, intelligent, and stylish device that could be used as effortlessly as a smartphone.

The project aimed to create a compact, high-precision laser measurement tool that combined innovation with practicality. Key objectives included:

1. Designing the world’s smallest laser rangefinder with a lightweight, portable form.

2. Ensuring high accuracy (1.5mm) and a measurement range of up to 60 meters.

3. Integrating smart features, such as automatic area and volume calculations and floor plan sketching.

4. Delivering a user-friendly experience with intuitive controls and a sleek, modern aesthetic.

LKK Design employed a comprehensive approach to bring the Ape Crafts Smart Ruler to life, focusing on research, industrial design, mechanical engineering, and prototyping.

Design Research

The team began by analyzing the target audience—homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and professionals in the decoration industry. Insights revealed a need for a device that was both highly functional and easy to carry. Market research highlighted the absence of compact, smart measurement tools, paving the way for the Smart Ruler’s innovative design.

Industrial Design

The industrial design phase prioritized aesthetics, ergonomics, and usability. Key features included:

• A sleek, one-piece aluminum alloy case that ensured durability and a premium feel.

• A 1.5-inch screen for clear visibility of measurement data.

• Seven measurement modes and nine built-in functions, enabling versatility for various scenarios.

• A compact form factor (80mm in length, 50g weight) that made it the world’s smallest laser ruler.

Mechanical Structure Design

The mechanical design focused on optimizing the internal hardware to fit into a lightweight, compact body. Innovations included:

• A dustproof and waterproof casing for enhanced durability.

• A redesigned button layout and control interface for seamless operation.

• Efficient space utilization to house advanced laser technology without compromising performance.

Prototyping and Testing

Multiple prototypes were developed and tested to refine the product’s functionality and user experience. Iterative testing ensured accuracy, ease of use, and durability. The final design achieved a perfect balance of portability, aesthetics, and performance.

The collaboration between LKK Design and Ape Crafts resulted in a groundbreaking product that redefined the measurement tool category. The Ape Crafts Smart Ruler successfully launched a crowdfunding campaign on JD Equity Crowdfunding on April 7, 2016, garnering significant attention and support. Its compact size, smart capabilities, and elegant design made it an instant hit among both professionals and non-professionals. By combining cutting-edge technology with user-centric design, LKK Design delivered a product that not only met market needs but also set new standards for innovation in the industry.