Initial Research: Artists
This post will include my initial research on artists and products that have caught my eye and could potentially inspire my product design project for term two.
First are the {access}ories tootbrush handles by Landor, created to help people with dexterity problems who struggle with using regular tootbrush handles. What inspired me were the shapes and textures used in the products, at a lower price point so it is actually accessible to the people that may need it. "Using advanced 3D printing technology, Landor developed adaptive add-ons that seamlessly attach to existing toothbrushes, instantly transforming them into accessible and desirable tools. " (WWP, n.d.). For my own project I can find similarly shaped fungi that could mimic the ideal shapes that can help people with dexterity issues, such as people with dyspraxia, who are my main target market. Since most fungi are usually smooth in texture, I will have to find a way to incorporate pleasant textures for those that struggle with sensory problems.
The bottlecup is a reusable thermos with a cup and bottle in one. "The silicone waist provides a tactile surface for holding the product, which makes twisting the cup on and off easier." (Griffiths, 2013). The cup and bottle in one is what inspired me together with the choice of material for comfort of use, for my own project I could find a way to design a teapot and cup in one. This would not necessarily solve any of the problems for my target market, however, it might be another interesting challenge to take on. None of the materials are relevant to my project, only the idea is.
The 'Peach Cup' by BoeyW is closely related to my own project, using shapes found in nature to create a cup. In this case the shape is modified to make a functional product. The shape of the cup and the slight relief makes it easier to hold while staying true to the original shape of a peach. The idea of the product was to make it inviting and comfortable to hold, which is something that I will be focusing on for my own project. The studio has created a similar product line previously; kitchen tools for blind people. The product line encourages the use of the human senses, while still being usable for both blind and non-blind people. "The monopoly of vision is questioned through its absence and the tools bring to light that "seeing" is not only visual." (Dezeen, 2021). I want my own project to be usable by everyone, with a focus on people with dexterity issues and sensory issues. Therefore, both of these product lines are inspiring for my own product design project.
References:
Dezeen (2021). Haptics of Cooking | Longlists | Dezeen Awards 2021. [online] Dezeen. Available at: https://www.dezeen.com/awards/2021/longlists/haptics-of-cooking/ [Accessed 14 Apr. 2024].
WWP (n.d.). Making oral care accessible for 360 million people . [online] Available at: https://www.wpp.com/featured/work/2023/05/landor-and-fitch-accessories [Accessed 23 May 2024].
Griffiths, A. (2013). MSN. [online] www.msn.com. Available at: https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/technology/seymourpowell-designs-two-in-one-reusable-water-bottle-and-coffee-cup/ar-AA1kxwIy [Accessed 23 May 2024].
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