Virtual reality headsets were initially developed for the gaming industry to transport people into life-like gaming worlds. Meanwhile, organisations are increasingly using VR technology for education and training purposes or for project collaboration. Lenovo’s ThinkReality VRX takes this evolving user behaviour into account. Thanks to its special design, the headset is easy to put on and can quickly be passed on to the next user without having to make complicated adjustments. This aspect was particularly important to the jury: “Ergonomic features are just as essential as good design. The product can be easily adapted to the shape of the user’s head and is designed for effective weight distribution between the front and back. This ensures superior comfort and makes the headset seem much lighter than it actually is.” A cooling fan supplies fresh air to the face section, optimising comfort during long periods of use such as all-day training sessions. Technically, ThinkReality VRX is a mixed reality headset designed to visualise virtual reality environments while adding the option of augmented reality experiences. Pass-through cameras allow users to superimpose 3D graphics onto the real-world, so they see a real environment in front of them that is augmented with digital information. When the AR function is activated, LEDs light up on the front of the headset to indicate to others that the user can see them. The design of the VRX successfully preserves Think product family’s minimalist, rectilinear form while adapting it to the context of a head-worn device. Simple, geometric lines and defined edges give the headset a reduced look. When viewed from above, it recreates the oval shape of the head. The jury praised Lenovo for constructing a sleek device without the bulkiness associated with most VR headsets. The design and choice of materials were also convincing: “The product is easily adaptable, well balanced and not over-designed – it’s just right.”
