reinventing the rockstar
heritage
The traditional method of guitar building is significant to its culture. The ideologies set forth by luthier’s still impact guitarist’s and manufacturer’s.
social impact
Music transformed the guitar into a symbol which represented an anti-authoritarian attitude, pushing the limits of the contemporary social standards. The electric guitar was the driving force of music, but as the trends in music change so do the needs of the musicians.
the industry standard
The guitar is frequently met with resistance to change. Its heritage and influence on our society have helped solidify our expectations of the electric guitar.
an expression of your musical journey
material and meaning
The materials represent influential musical movements that have impacted my life’s journey.
glass
Classical music was a part of my elementary school curriculum. The dramatic characteristics of glass emulate the elegance of classical music.
slip cast porcelain
Classic rock echoed throughout my house during my childhood. Slip cast porcelain represents the foundation of my musical roots.
titanium
My adolescent years were devoted to punk rock and metal. Titanium symbolizes the aggressive style of that musical culture.
the bluetooth speaker that can reduce our carbon footprint
e-waste
Electronic waste is a term for electronic products that have become unwanted, non-working or obsolete. Because technology advances at such a high rate, many electronic devices become “trash” after a few short years of use.
the problem
The bluetooth speaker market segment is over saturated, causing the life span of the product to be short lived. How can we extend the life of a product utilizing ecodesign strategies?
ecodesign strategy wheel
The strategy wheel identifies how sustainable ideologies can adapt to any product by changing current materials, manufacturing techniques, allocating new technologies, whole systems thinking, utilizing renewable resources and methodologies, choosing the appropriate technology, life cycle analysis methods, and how sustainability is being approached in other parts of the world. Applying these strategies to the redesign can drastically reduce the environmental impact.
design for:
1. innovation
- create opportunity for local supply chain.
PET fleece sourced from local manufacturer
2. reduce material impacts
- use recycled or reclaimed materials
all parts utilize secondary ABS plastic
- minimize the quantity of materials
reduction of overall size and housing structure is
minimized to ribs
3. manufacturing innovation
- minimize the number of components and materials.
internal component supports were built into the housing and double shot with an elastomer to minimize the vibration and provide a secure fit.
4. reduce distribution impacts
- reduce product and package weight
- reduce product and package volume
6. system longevity
- foster emotional connection to the product by creating a relation between the form language and pop culture trends foster greater emotional significance by connecting our auditory, physical, and
ocular senses.
- the user can send the manufacturer a personal article of clothing that will be repurposed as the speaker grill mesh.
7. transitional systems
- design for reuse of components
removing adhesives on the components allow them to be reused after a thorough QC inspection.
8. optimized end-of-life
- design for fast manual or automated disassembly
the reduction of mounting hardware allows for fast disassembly.
- design recycling business model: The “Recycle Your SOL” program provides speakers for underprivileged music schools while rewarding the donator with free music from SOL sponsored musicians.
enjoy your commute
how do we get people out of their cars?
Convenience, privacy, and personal space are the main reasons why most people prefer to drive. Directing our focus within this spectrum helped narrow down the aesthetic goals.
the stakeholders
A large scale project such as this one involves numerous stakeholders. Identifying their needs is an important aspect to the design process. The focus was directed towards key stakeholders who have the greatest impact in this phase of the project. This project is also in conjunction with Swensen Solar Group, INIST, SMSSV, city officials, and city transit members.
the window seat
Visual impact can stimulate the mind in many ways. For children it engages their curiosity while daily commuters express that it helps them decompress. Enhancing the cabin environment with a panoramic view can provide a heightened user experience.
rise above
Current public transportation systems lack security, privacy, and convenience. A cabin that provides a better experience can help increase the number of riders, productivity, and help them feel at ease.
revamping the power tool landscape
market position
Products that are high quality and reasonably priced was the intended market entry.
design opportunity
Hedge trimmers appeal to a masculine consumer through an aggressive design language. Re-evaluating today’s market will provide new opportunities for innovation and design exploration.
the unobtrusive hedge trimmer
The zen hedge trimmer embraces the simplicity of the Braun brand while addressing the necessary mechanical, safety and ergonomic needs of the user.
an application that teaches healthy habits
emotional attachment
Each generation has experienced their own form of an interactive companion. These objects depend on what people attribute to them. When we take care of an object and when the cared-for object thrives and offers us its attention, we are moved to experience that object as intelligent.
Children and adults not only reflect on how their own mental and physical processes are analogous to the objects, but perceive and relate to them as an autonomous and “almost alive” self. This relationship can have a powerful effect on our personal self-development. By designing an esoteric character the goal was to capture a stronger emotional connection with the end user, resulting in a positive user experience.
a common goal
Michelle Obama released a campaign to fight against childhood obesity called Let’s Move. She is taking on this epidemic by educating children on the importance of a healthy diet.
“Everyone has a role to play in reducing childhood obesity, including parents, schools, health care professionals, and the government. Your involvement is key to ensuring a healthy future for our children.”
-Michelle Obama
an idea from concept to product
the inspiration
On a recent visit to Japan, I stumbled upon a whiskey bar hidden deep within the alleyways of Osaka. The clarity and precise shape of their handmade ice cubes caught my attention as it careened from side to side in the glass. I was fascinated by the diligence that was given to a simple object.
opportunity
An existing business relationship provided an opportunity to learn about the manufacturing methods of compression and injection molding. They sponsored my project by providing assistance from an engineering, the raw materials, and the tool for injection molding.
feel like a million bucks
Diamond Design is a simple and fun way to celebrate any special occasion or just to enjoy your favorite drink.
rethink the air freshener
what is home?
Home is where we escape the stress of our daily life. Sometimes our hectic schedules invade our personal space causing us to lose our place of refuge. One of the most common ways we can transform our environment is through the use of aromatics. Scented candles, plug-in dispensers, and sprays are cheap and widely available.
the problem
Plug in diffusers require an A/C power source and usually intrudes the second socket, rendering the entire outlet useless.
Candles are the most popular option because they utilize the emotion of lighting with the power of scent. They become a focal point, but due to the risk of fire they are also very dangerous.
the solution
Combine the benefits of aroma therapy and scented candles with our current lighting system.
the movement of water through wood
