SUUNTO OY
THE T1, T3 AND T4 HEART RATE MONITORS
Design: Suunto Design Team / Mikko Ahlström, Kimmo Pernu 2006
The distinct user interface of the Suunto heart rate monitors helps even ordinary users exercise efficiently. The uniform appearance of the product line is also taken into consideration in the design.
Suunto Oy was founded in Finland in 1936 originally to make compasses. Over the decades it has expanded its operations via diving instruments to wristop computers. By the late 1990s, heart rate monitoring technology had developed to the stage where monitors became available to ordinary consumers. In the future, the devices can monitor a growing range of vital functions and provide easily readable information on them.
Suunto wanted to develop its heart rate monitors to increasingly suit the tastes and needs of ordinary consumers, as part of daily life and not just an accessory worn when jogging. The monitors of this product line are also reasonably priced.
Monitored heart rate alone does not necessarily provide clear information on the effects of exercise. Aspects that were sought included the measurement of distance travelled, speed and energy consumption, guidance and even the possibility for an updateable personal training programme. The heart rate monitors of the series contain various functions and users will no doubt find the right device for individual needs. The main innovation is the display of the effects of exercise.
Design also focused on the uniform visual image of the product line. There was particular emphasis on details, for they give a product a finished and considered appearance. The wristband is more flexible than in earlier models, for comfortable fit on even a narrow wrist and permitting the use of the monitor also as a wristwatch. The dial is clear-cut and readable, making it easy to find and read information even when exercising strenuously. The wide range of technological properties of the devices does not make use unduly complicated. The heart rate monitors can also communicate for example with pace meters or bicycle speedometers.
The product range represents Suunto’s new line in design, focusing on the essential in sports instruments and seeking to exclude anything unnecessary. The well-finished packaging and marketing material complements the image of the brand.
Suunto Oy
Valimotie 7, FI-01510 Vantaa
Tel. +358 (0)9 875 870
Fax +358 (0)9 875 87301
www.suunto.com
Mikko Ahlström