A core product design class consisted of concept sketching. After spending time learning and practicing the art of straight lines and ellipses in perspective we moved to more complex projects. It was hard to stray from the usual fine art drawing that I was originally trained in. It took some getting used to for a while to focus on making quick, long lines and proper line-weight.
Objective: Design a handheld object
The hair dryer was was difficult to create a new design as someone that doesn't use one. Talking to users and finding out their complaints led me to the idea of a twisting mechanism on the main body rather than the handle for easier access when in use. This can be used with both hands instead of the same hand that is already holding the handle, which might hit the buttons on accident. Research showed that most hairdryers have similar shapes and haven't changed much over the years. My ideation focused on different shapes and ergonomics for the handle.
Final hair dryer design
Existing hair dryer drawing
Hair dryer concept ideation
Objective: Design a chair
Chairs are everywhere and we sit in them everyday. Often the design of such mundane objects flies under the radar. There are few chairs I love and there are many I despise. Taking inspiration from both, the idea was to focus on ergonomics motion. A curved back and base allow the body to melt into it. Sitting on a raised spring over a platform caters to fidgeters. The chair can rock and spin. These features make sitting for long durations bearable.
Final ergonomic chair design
Final ergonomic chair design
Ergonomic chair design ideation
Ergonomic chair design ideation
Objective: Design over-the-ear headphones
The market is fairly saturated with headphones, so this projects focuses were aesthetic and straight-forward functionality. The crown design is tailored the younger generation as they continue to grow up with technology. Headphones are mostly very boring and bulky. A slimmer and more playful concept breaks this up. The adjustable feature is accessible for multiple users or as a child might grow older. It pairs nicely with all the simple controls grouped together to minimize confusion and/or user error.
Final headphones design
2 Headphones concepts
Headphones ideation
Objective: Design a countertop kitchen appliance
Several blenders on the market have very different concepts from body to buttons. The goal was to create efficient functionality through buttons and easy mobility for the user. Each button is specific, yet differs enough from the others to be relevant. Too many functions can overwhelm the user, but not enough, can disappoint. Handles on either side of the motor make transporting easy and safer. The hourglass body help keep the contents from spraying upward. Additionally, the lid design makes it less of a hassle to remove quickly.
Blender design
Blender/chopper/button ideation
