The iVe Hardware Case is the culmination of a two year effort to design the ultimate carrying case to protect and organize the hardware used to acquire data from vehicle systems. Countless hours were spent analyzing customer feedback and interviewing users to better understand the day to day operational environment. The result is a discreet, rugged, lightweight, all-in-one solution that allows for easy identification, quick access, and next level organization all the while protecting the sensitive components in the harshest of circumstances.
ULTIMATE HARDWARE CASE
The main case body is made of ultra lightweight high density EVA and 1680-Denier ballistic nylon coated fabric. These materials combined with the YKK reverse double coil puncture resistant zipper create the first layer of protection. The case is water resistant and can withstand heavy use in abrasive environments. The reinforced MIL-Spec nylon webbing handle and attachment points connect to an internal semi-rigid frame via low profile rivets so that customers can securely connect ancillary equipment to the case. The discreet branding minimizes attention for those that need to maintain low visibility during operational activities and travel. The case was specifically designed to be within airline carry-on size restrictions for those customers that are constantly on the go and cannot risk checking their equipment.
NEXT LEVEL ORGANIZATION
The inside of the case maximizes visibility and access while maintaining an unprecedented level of organization. [ 1 ] The lid contains high visibility mesh pockets with separate zipper and elastic closures for securing common cables and frequently used items. The clear pocket displays critical items such as the iVe license key and evidence storage devices. [ 2 ] The fold out wings are secured with 1/2 inch rivets to the semi-rigid frame along with integrated sidewall reinforcement plates. The wings provide easy access to the hardware and power supplies used during the acquisition process. Cables and other sub-components used in conjunction with each of these items are stored on a secondary layer in the wings beneath each piece of hardware. The large compartment at the bottom of the case holds [ 3 ] the breakout toolkit and [ 4 ] protective containers.
BREAKOUT TOOLKIT
The breakout toolkit contains the common tools used to access and remove vehicle systems. It is constructed out of the same materials as the main case and has the same discreet, rugged, weather resistant features but with a lie-flat design.
Custom cut high-density foam inside the toolkit securely holds everything in place. The bottom side of the toolkit contains a ratchet driver, extension, and swivel which are capable of being used with the bit sets as well as with the SAE and metric sockets. There is also a small AAA flashlight which is a good light source when working in tight spaces and a telescoping wand for retrieving metallic objects just out of reach.
The lid of the toolkit includes a dedicated area to store the trim removal tools and has a magnetic tray to help keep track of the nuts, bolts, and screws when removing and disassembling systems. The trim tool storage area is specifically designed to hold the sockets and bit sets in place when the toolkit is closed. The breakout toolkit is configured so that at a glance customers can identify any missing tools before they head into the field.
PROTECTIVE CONTAINERS
The containers house the most sensitive components within the iVe Hardware Kit and are one of the most important aspects of the new case. They are made of thermoplastic polymer and include a low profile living hinge and flush latch. They are organized within the case by vehicle manufacturer and supported vehicle systems. The label on the spine indicates the OEM and systems supported by the components inside. The data matrix barcode can be scanned with the iVe Mobile app to retrieve a detailed inventory of the components and subcomponents within a container.
Inside each container, components and subcomponents are grouped by supported systems. The groupings are physically indicated by ABS plastic overlays. A quick reference label affixed to the lid visually depicts each grouping and lists out the associated components and subcomponents required for an acquisition.
Each component in a container is protected by custom fitted chemically cross-linked polyethylene fine-celled foam. This particular foam minimizes thermal transfer and is an exceptional shock absorber. It is an extremely durable, high density foam specifically engineered to resist breakdown and tearing with heavy use. The components are easily removed using the provided finger reliefs. Each component is fully captured when placed back into the container and sensitive pins on the underside of the interface boards are protected.
