The RIGHT STUFF
Covestro Smartspeaker
The product is an AI voice-controlled speaker that responds to voice commands and plays streaming music.
The team prototyped the enclosure by machining it from various materials, including PC, PC/ABS blends, and PC/nylon blends, to evaluate the acoustic performance of the custom speaker design.
Four different solid plastic blends were used. Each material was cast into resin blocks, then machined, finished, and assembled.
The result is a compact, visually striking speaker that showcases both material innovation and precision engineering.
Covestro is a leading global manufacturer of high-tech polymer materials, specializing in polyurethanes, polycarbonates, and coatings, adhesives, and specialties. The company frequently collaborates with partners across industries—including audio, automotive, and technology—to co-develop innovative, design-forward products.
In 2020, Tandem collaborated with Covestro and RIVA AUDIO to design, engineer, and prototype a 360-degree smart speaker. The project utilized Covestro’s latest engineering plastic resin to create an iconic design that is both visually striking and capable of delivering clear, high-quality sound.
full stack product evelopment
During the mechanical engineering development, Tandem developed this Tri-Star layout to maximize internal space while achieving omnidirectional sound that fills the room.
Its form cascades from the top control dial to the back, creating a distinctive visual signature while conveying that the controls are seamlessly integrated into the sound experience. The Tri-Star speaker arrays sit 120 degrees from each other, creating a prefect 360 sound layout.