Niton DXL
Precious Metal Analyzer
for Thermo Fisher Scientific
Thermo Fisher Scientific is one of the world's largest life science and clinical research companies, specializing in analytical instruments, clinical development solutions, specialty diagnostics, and laboratory, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology services.
They planned to develop a new precious metal analyzer based on one of their specialties—analytical instruments—and approached Altitude, their long-time design and development partner, to assist with it.
Challenge: Defining the Ideal User Experience Through Use Case Scenario Exploration.
Thermo Fisher Scientific identified new sales opportunities for a precious metal analyzer in individual dealer shops, driven by the global growth of personal precious metal transactions. Based on this insight, they requested the development of a new analyzer design specifically tailored for individual dealer shop users, rather than traditional laboratory applications.
The primary challenge for the design team was to define the ideal user experience for this new context—an area and user group that had not been previously explored. To address this, the team investigated a variety of use case scenarios related to individual precious metal transactions. Through this research, team discovered that “trustworthiness” was the most critical value, as users are dealing with high-value materials in peer-to-peer transactions.
The design and development process therefore focused on how to deliver a trustworthy user experience through the product.
Quick, Safe, and Trustworthy Transaction Experience with “The DXL”.
“The DXL” was thoughtfully designed to deliver a seamless, secure, and trustworthy experience for individual precious metal transactions between customers and dealers.
Its minimalist and refined form intentionally bridges the gap between consumer-friendly aesthetics and professional functionality, moving away from the intimidating lab analyzer look to something approachable and intuitive.
Both dealer and customer can transparently observe the real-time analysis process through the DXL’s windows on both sides. The slightly angled windows support comfort and provide an easy viewing angle. This design detail enables real-time, transparent two-way communication through the analyzer, enhancing trust.
Large handles on both sides enable easy mobility, supporting flexible placement and use across diverse environments and multiple dealers.
The DXL’s sheet metal body, combined with glass-filled nylon parts, increases its durability, making it a robust and trustworthy device.
Ultimately, the DXL embodies a purposeful design language that fosters transparency, ease of use, and trust—delivering a precious metal analysis experience that feels both accessible and professional.
Official Website: www.thermofisher.com
Design Team:
Joongoo Lee (Industrial Design Lead) and Philip Leung (Project Lead / Manager) at Altitude, Inc.
Mechanical Engineering Team:
Paul Gregory (Mechanical Engineering Lead) at Altitude, Inc.
Design Credit:
Thermo Fisher Scientific
Altitude, Inc.
Published: