This blog was created for the requirements of Human Computer Interaction II at the University of Birmingham. Our aim was to create a totally new product by using a User-Centered Design process. At an initial state we had our brainstorming session where many ideas were discussed and documented on the blog. Following that we had to specify an age group for whom the product was designated for.
Our team selected the group of elderly people of an age of 60+ and we discussed the various problems that this age group faced in their everyday life. Although many of the ideas were considered to be very helpful and innovative we had to select through voting, an idea to implement. The product to be implemented had to be one that would most benefit the group of elderly people that we had selected. The choice was made and the product we decided to develop was the Automatic Secateurs. Conducting a market research for similar products available in the market, we found out that although many products resembled our idea in some way, still no product existed that will take into consideration all the issues we discussed about the needs of the elderly.
The process of creating the product was dependent on a user-centered design and for that reason, due to the fact that we could not get in contact with persons of that age group, we created four personas. Our personas are based on entirely different characters from each other, so as to cover the needs of the elderly in a much more detailed and accurate manner. Each persona has its own advantages and limitations, and thus the interaction with the product was different for each one and unveiled different aspects of the design.
Creative Design was required from us to create an initial prototype according to the needs of the elderly. At the start of this process we had to make another choice. The purpose of the secateurs was clear, but in the group three different design approaches were suggested. After we had reached a decision of what was the most suitable design was in our case, some of the initial requirements for the tool were pointed out, as well as a task analysis, giving us a general idea to start with.
Through discussion and evaluation of the requirements, in the process of creative design, we successfully created our first prototype named EasyTrim. After conducting a critical appraisal of the current design features through the use of interaction scenarios and questionnaires, we arrived at some refinements for the tool. These refinements were implemented and the prototype was evaluated again using cooperative and heuristic evaluation techniques. Further refinements were achieved and the release of the product was a fact. An important factor such as ethics was also discussed in our group although the issues were limited due to the nature of our product.
We have managed to create EasyTrim using a user-centered design and we feel that we have achieved that at a large degree. Despite the great effort we had put in the creation of this product though, there will always be space for improvements. The limited amount of time we had though, was a restraining factor in further investigation of the requirements and needs of our user group and to the creation of an ever more successful tool.
Wednesday, 28 March 2007
Sunday, 25 March 2007
Ethics
Designing a product should take into consideration any possible ethical issues related to the product's use. After discussing together with the group any possible ethical issues we have arrived to only one ethical issue, mainly due to the nature of our product.
EasyTrim is a gardening tool designed to ease the act of gardening. The tool should not be used in any way to result in the injury or death of any person, animal or living being. Although different safety measurements were created taking into account this issue, it is up to the end user whether the use of this tools will actually result to violate this conditions.
EasyTrim is a gardening tool designed to ease the act of gardening. The tool should not be used in any way to result in the injury or death of any person, animal or living being. Although different safety measurements were created taking into account this issue, it is up to the end user whether the use of this tools will actually result to violate this conditions.
Saturday, 24 March 2007
EasyTrim Released!
The following picture represents the final and complete EasyTrim tool created by our group. By pressing on the corresponding link below you can view the justification relating to each of the features used in this tool. Although the justification, for each of the features implemented in our tool, can be derived through the discussion for the creative design of the prototype, the following links provide specific references to where each feature was discussed explicitly.
(1) Aluminum Skeleton
(2) Safety Caps
(3) Non-Slipping Surface
(4) Easy Visible Charging Plug
(5) Durable Lightweight Plastic Handles
(6) Safety Catch
(7) Lightweight Rechargeable Battery
(8) Power Meter
(9) Easy Grasp Handle
(10)Non-Stick Blade
(1) Aluminum Skeleton
(2) Safety Caps
(3) Non-Slipping Surface
(4) Easy Visible Charging Plug
(5) Durable Lightweight Plastic Handles
(6) Safety Catch
(7) Lightweight Rechargeable Battery
(8) Power Meter
(9) Easy Grasp Handle
(10)Non-Stick Blade
(11)Motor
Friday, 23 March 2007
Further Refinements
After analyzing the results of the evaluation methods we have reached to the following refinements for our tool EasyTrim:
EasyTrim should have a non-stick blade
Using a normal steel blade allows for non-clear and accurate cuts since the blade got easily stuck in the branch mainly due to dirt from the cuttings. This required more strength from the elderly to be used, as well as a greater amount of pressure on their wrist. Replacing the normal blade with a non-stick blade will reduce the pressure exerted on the wrist, as well as the strength needed to operate the tool.
EasyTrim should have a non-stick blade
Using a normal steel blade allows for non-clear and accurate cuts since the blade got easily stuck in the branch mainly due to dirt from the cuttings. This required more strength from the elderly to be used, as well as a greater amount of pressure on their wrist. Replacing the normal blade with a non-stick blade will reduce the pressure exerted on the wrist, as well as the strength needed to operate the tool.
Wednesday, 21 March 2007
Co-operative Evaluation: Mrs Fernandez
Day: Thursday, March 12th
Time: 11:45
Weather conditions: Mild and cloudy with occasional light rain.
The session began with Mrs Fernandez’ in high spirits and very keen to participate. The garden, 4m x 8m, appeared well kept but evidently had not been tended for several weeks as requested. Most of the flora that needed attention consisted of rose bushes, holly, geraniums and apple blossom however there was also a ornamental tree, approximately 1m high that needed attention. Mrs Fernandez speculated that it would take her up to 1 hour to complete the work with her normal tools. She also insisted that I used her first name, May.
Before beginning the work, May and I enjoyed some refreshments while she answered a few questions regarding the design of the product. Her initial thoughts were that the tool seemed "well made" and "balanced" but she needed some assurance that the tool was very safe to use.
We entered at the garden at 12:15 and May began work on the small tree. She noted that usually this gives her the most trouble as the branches are “very hard and dry”. She was very pleased at how easily the EasyTrim was able to tackle through them. She noted that her hearing is not so good and the tool is very quiet which made it hard to tell if the blade was spinning up. May was able to perform 10 cuts per minute. The average diameter of each was approximately 5mm.
Following the small tree, May moved on to a rose bush. This presented more of a challenge because the branches were thicker, thorned and significantly more fibrous causing the blade to stick regularly. May had a tendency to squeeze the handles too forcefully, shearing the branches rather than allowing the teeth to cut the fibres. I explained that somewhat unintuitvely, applying less pressure to the handles will make the task easier and prevent damage to the EasyTrim. On this task, May became frustrated and we decided to move on without completing it. On the rose bushes, May was able to perform 2 cuts per minute. The average diameter of the branch was 10mm
At this point it began to drizzle so we went inside while we a waited for the rain to subside. During this time we discussed the robustness of the tool. May was very concerned about water resistance because she occasionally she leaves things out in the rain, she also wanted to know if there was any possibility of getting “electrocuted” if she used it with hands. She also mentioned that she has a tendency to drop things accidentally or knock them off a work surface.
The rain cleared after 5 minutes and May resumed gardening. The remainder of the task consisted of small bushes and shrubs up to 0.5m high. The average branch diameter was 3-7mm. May tackled these with ease using the EasyTrim. By this time May was using the tool with great proficiency and was performing up to 13 cuts per minute. At no point during the exercise did she appear fatigued and she commented that she would normally be "out of breath" by this time. Indeed she was enjoying the activity greatly, a sentiment that she expressed three times during the course of the session. The entire task was completed in 45 minutes, 15 minutes less than anticipated.
May was thanked for her time and participation.
Conclusions:
The results and observations from the co-operative evaluation were largely positive. A number of issues have been raised.
- EasyTrim should incorporate a blade with smaller teeth so that it does not stick.
- EasyTrim should be resilient and robust enough to survive a 1m fall onto a hard surface.
- EasyTrim should be able to resist water damage from rain.
- The aesthetics are pleasing to the user.
- Battery life is more than sufficient for the user’s needs.
- Emphasise that less pressure makes the tool work more efficiently.
Time: 11:45
Weather conditions: Mild and cloudy with occasional light rain.
The session began with Mrs Fernandez’ in high spirits and very keen to participate. The garden, 4m x 8m, appeared well kept but evidently had not been tended for several weeks as requested. Most of the flora that needed attention consisted of rose bushes, holly, geraniums and apple blossom however there was also a ornamental tree, approximately 1m high that needed attention. Mrs Fernandez speculated that it would take her up to 1 hour to complete the work with her normal tools. She also insisted that I used her first name, May.
Before beginning the work, May and I enjoyed some refreshments while she answered a few questions regarding the design of the product. Her initial thoughts were that the tool seemed "well made" and "balanced" but she needed some assurance that the tool was very safe to use.
We entered at the garden at 12:15 and May began work on the small tree. She noted that usually this gives her the most trouble as the branches are “very hard and dry”. She was very pleased at how easily the EasyTrim was able to tackle through them. She noted that her hearing is not so good and the tool is very quiet which made it hard to tell if the blade was spinning up. May was able to perform 10 cuts per minute. The average diameter of each was approximately 5mm.
Following the small tree, May moved on to a rose bush. This presented more of a challenge because the branches were thicker, thorned and significantly more fibrous causing the blade to stick regularly. May had a tendency to squeeze the handles too forcefully, shearing the branches rather than allowing the teeth to cut the fibres. I explained that somewhat unintuitvely, applying less pressure to the handles will make the task easier and prevent damage to the EasyTrim. On this task, May became frustrated and we decided to move on without completing it. On the rose bushes, May was able to perform 2 cuts per minute. The average diameter of the branch was 10mm
At this point it began to drizzle so we went inside while we a waited for the rain to subside. During this time we discussed the robustness of the tool. May was very concerned about water resistance because she occasionally she leaves things out in the rain, she also wanted to know if there was any possibility of getting “electrocuted” if she used it with hands. She also mentioned that she has a tendency to drop things accidentally or knock them off a work surface.
The rain cleared after 5 minutes and May resumed gardening. The remainder of the task consisted of small bushes and shrubs up to 0.5m high. The average branch diameter was 3-7mm. May tackled these with ease using the EasyTrim. By this time May was using the tool with great proficiency and was performing up to 13 cuts per minute. At no point during the exercise did she appear fatigued and she commented that she would normally be "out of breath" by this time. Indeed she was enjoying the activity greatly, a sentiment that she expressed three times during the course of the session. The entire task was completed in 45 minutes, 15 minutes less than anticipated.
May was thanked for her time and participation.
Conclusions:
The results and observations from the co-operative evaluation were largely positive. A number of issues have been raised.
- EasyTrim should incorporate a blade with smaller teeth so that it does not stick.
- EasyTrim should be resilient and robust enough to survive a 1m fall onto a hard surface.
- EasyTrim should be able to resist water damage from rain.
- The aesthetics are pleasing to the user.
- Battery life is more than sufficient for the user’s needs.
- Emphasise that less pressure makes the tool work more efficiently.
Co-operative Evaluation
Motivation: The co-operative evaluation is a collaborative effort between the designers and users to identify difficulties with the operation of the EasyTrim. From this we can identify issues which did not present themselves in the questionnaire and also measure qualitative data regarding the usage of the product.
Planning the Session: The session is carried out in a structured way although every effort is taken to ensure the interaction is comfortable and natural.
Planning the Session: The session is carried out in a structured way although every effort is taken to ensure the interaction is comfortable and natural.
- Recruit user.
- Prepare a realistic task on the user’s own premises. The user was asked not to do any pruning in their garden for at least two weeks before the session. This allows time for adequate over-growth to occur. Performing the task in familiar surroundings is pivotal to gauging how the product will perform in real life situations.
- The user is asked a series of pre-set questions about the product before starting their task and is invited to raise any questions that they may have with the designer.
- The gardening session is conducted and all comments are recorded for later reference. Unexpected events are also noted as well as general observations which may be useful to the design team. A break is offered if the user appears fatigued.
- A post session interview is carried out with preset questions.
- User discusses their likes and dislikes with the product and raises any other issues.
- User is thanked for their co-operation.
Cooperative Evaluation - Definition
"Cooperative evaluation" is a variant of think aloud, in which the user is encouraged to see himself as a collaborator in the evaluation rather than just a subject. As well as getting the user to think aloud, the evaluator can ask such questions as "Why?" and "What if.....?"; likewise, the user can ask the evaluator for clarification if problems arise.
Heuristic Evaluation
The goal of heuristic evaluation is to find usability problems in the design so that they can be attended to as part of an iterative design process.
Visibility of system status
The secateurs have appropriate feedback for the battery level. The power meter indicates the battery available. For better understanding the battery level has been dressed up with colors that are indicative of the power level left. The time for displaying the appropriate power level is minimum therefore the feedback is immediate.
Match between system and the real world
The product faced this heuristic well by adding an “on/off” indication on the button that starts the power tool.
User control and freedom
The product serves this heuristic well since it prevents the user from performing an operation which is unwanted, such as turning the power tool on, by adding a safety button. Even though if the power tool is turned on by mistake the control that the user has over the tool is immediate since he/she can simply re-push the same button to terminate the operation of the tool.
Consistency and standards
The product passed this heuristic. The usage of the product was clear and the meaning of the buttons and their usage was also clear. There was no ambiguity in what the operation of each button was.
Error prevention
There are not many errors that can occur during the process of using the secateurs. The only thing that can occur and the product has handle it, is in the situation where the user by accident operates the secateurs by pushing the “on” button. The product has faced this error and has successfully prevented it from happening by adding a safety button that must be released in order for mechanical part of the secateurs to operate.
Recognition rather than recall
The tool does not require the user to recall any information from a previous use of the product. The recognition of the steps required to operate the tool are visible and easily understandable.
Flexibility and efficiency of use
The speed in which the circular blade rotates is proportional to the degree of pressure exerted on the button. Therefore an experienced user can complete a task faster by using the full speed of the circular blade while an inexperienced user can operate the tool starting the rotation of the circular blade at a lower speed.
Aesthetic and minimalist design
Aesthetic of the product is similar to conventional secateur designs. The design of the product is minimalist, having only the required information that are needed to operate it present. Therefore the product satisfies this heuristic.
Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors
There are no errors that can occur during the procedures required to use the power tool to achieve a goal.
Help and documentation
No documentation for the secateurs because of their simplicity.
Visibility of system status
The secateurs have appropriate feedback for the battery level. The power meter indicates the battery available. For better understanding the battery level has been dressed up with colors that are indicative of the power level left. The time for displaying the appropriate power level is minimum therefore the feedback is immediate.
Match between system and the real world
The product faced this heuristic well by adding an “on/off” indication on the button that starts the power tool.
User control and freedom
The product serves this heuristic well since it prevents the user from performing an operation which is unwanted, such as turning the power tool on, by adding a safety button. Even though if the power tool is turned on by mistake the control that the user has over the tool is immediate since he/she can simply re-push the same button to terminate the operation of the tool.
Consistency and standards
The product passed this heuristic. The usage of the product was clear and the meaning of the buttons and their usage was also clear. There was no ambiguity in what the operation of each button was.
Error prevention
There are not many errors that can occur during the process of using the secateurs. The only thing that can occur and the product has handle it, is in the situation where the user by accident operates the secateurs by pushing the “on” button. The product has faced this error and has successfully prevented it from happening by adding a safety button that must be released in order for mechanical part of the secateurs to operate.
Recognition rather than recall
The tool does not require the user to recall any information from a previous use of the product. The recognition of the steps required to operate the tool are visible and easily understandable.
Flexibility and efficiency of use
The speed in which the circular blade rotates is proportional to the degree of pressure exerted on the button. Therefore an experienced user can complete a task faster by using the full speed of the circular blade while an inexperienced user can operate the tool starting the rotation of the circular blade at a lower speed.
Aesthetic and minimalist design
Aesthetic of the product is similar to conventional secateur designs. The design of the product is minimalist, having only the required information that are needed to operate it present. Therefore the product satisfies this heuristic.
Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors
There are no errors that can occur during the procedures required to use the power tool to achieve a goal.
Help and documentation
No documentation for the secateurs because of their simplicity.
Evaluation
For the purpose of this project we will use the following two evaluation techniques to evaluate our product:
- Heuristic Evaluation
- Cooperative Evaluation
The evaluation will consists of an interaction between the personas created and the scenario . Using this techniques we will be able to distinguish any further refinements that may be applicable to the tool EasyTrim.
Tuesday, 20 March 2007
Refined Prototype Design
The following picture presents the refined designed for the tool EasyTrim. This design takes into consideration the evaluation of the results of the questionnaires answered by all four personas after using the tool.
Monday, 19 March 2007
Critical appraisal of prototype
After we have reviewed the questionaires and scenarios we have arrived to the following refinements:
Firstly,due to the difficulty that the users faced when trying to cut branches that were a bit wider than 2 cm diameter, we have decided to enlarge the circular saw blade to a size of 5cm in order to increase the tool's efficiency.
Secondly, although the users are able to use the tool multiple times without the need to recharge the battery, battery level is proportional to the tasks that the user completes. Therefore to help them know about the remaining battery levels we will provided them with a power meter that will indicate the amount of power remaining for the tool. Considering the age group we are cuurrently working with, the power meter should be as simple as possible. It will work with three different colors instead of percentage of power in battery. The following colours with their meaning in battery power will appear:
Thirdly, colors help the elderly easier distinguish the buttons. The on/off button as well as the safety button for it should be of a color that is a lot different from the skeleton of the secateur. Instead of black the color of this two buttons should become white.
The strong points:
Increased cutting power thanks to a powerful motor and a strong circular blade.
A very light model on the market thanks to the revolutionary Li-Ion battery technology.
Reduced muscular effort in the arm and shoulder.
Incomparable strength and durability thanks to a precision-forged aluminium body guaranteed for life.
A tool that is very Easy to handle and manage with carefully designed safety features.
Technical Specifications:
1. Cutting head: responds immediately when pressing the on/off button.
3. Protective frame around the circular blade to keep foreign objects out of the mechanism of the pruning shears.
4. Safety trigger.
5. Safety Catch.
6. Very strong precision-forged aluminium body, guaranteed for life
7. Pack to store away automatic secatuers and charger.
8. Easy grasp handles with non-slipping surface.
9. Battery Level.
10. Brushless, sensorless, maintenance-free motor.
11. Easy to distinguish charging plug on secatuer.
12. Safety caps above and below blade.
Circular Saw Diameter:50 mm
Average power: 150 watts (max. power: 185 watts)
Li-Ion battery capacity: 4 amperes/hour
Average duration of use without recharging: 2 working days
Mains voltage for the charger: between 90 and 250 volts
Average charging time: 5 hours
Weight of the secatuer:350g
Firstly,due to the difficulty that the users faced when trying to cut branches that were a bit wider than 2 cm diameter, we have decided to enlarge the circular saw blade to a size of 5cm in order to increase the tool's efficiency.
Secondly, although the users are able to use the tool multiple times without the need to recharge the battery, battery level is proportional to the tasks that the user completes. Therefore to help them know about the remaining battery levels we will provided them with a power meter that will indicate the amount of power remaining for the tool. Considering the age group we are cuurrently working with, the power meter should be as simple as possible. It will work with three different colors instead of percentage of power in battery. The following colours with their meaning in battery power will appear:
- Green - battery full
The meter shows a full level with all five squares on the meter when battery is full.
- Orange- battery is half full
The meter shows a half full battery with three out of the five squares on the meter being orange.
- Red - Battery needs to be recharged.
The meter shows a battery that is almost empty and in need to recharge with one out of the five squares on the meter being red
Thirdly, colors help the elderly easier distinguish the buttons. The on/off button as well as the safety button for it should be of a color that is a lot different from the skeleton of the secateur. Instead of black the color of this two buttons should become white.
The strong points:
Increased cutting power thanks to a powerful motor and a strong circular blade.
A very light model on the market thanks to the revolutionary Li-Ion battery technology.
Reduced muscular effort in the arm and shoulder.
Incomparable strength and durability thanks to a precision-forged aluminium body guaranteed for life.
A tool that is very Easy to handle and manage with carefully designed safety features.
Technical Specifications:
1. Cutting head: responds immediately when pressing the on/off button.
3. Protective frame around the circular blade to keep foreign objects out of the mechanism of the pruning shears.
4. Safety trigger.
5. Safety Catch.
6. Very strong precision-forged aluminium body, guaranteed for life
7. Pack to store away automatic secatuers and charger.
8. Easy grasp handles with non-slipping surface.
9. Battery Level.
10. Brushless, sensorless, maintenance-free motor.
11. Easy to distinguish charging plug on secatuer.
12. Safety caps above and below blade.
Circular Saw Diameter:50 mm
Average power: 150 watts (max. power: 185 watts)
Li-Ion battery capacity: 4 amperes/hour
Average duration of use without recharging: 2 working days
Mains voltage for the charger: between 90 and 250 volts
Average charging time: 5 hours
Weight of the secatuer:350g
Wednesday, 14 March 2007
User Experience: Mrs May Fernandez
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
80+
Sex
Female
Type of Housing
House
Tenure
Private
Who normally maintains your garden?
Family
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?
Neutral
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
Endurance
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
How did you find the tool useful to your gardening tasks?
It saved me effort
What were your initial difficulties using the tool:(select those that apply):
The product was too heavy
The product was too large or cumbersome
I had difficulty cutting branches
The controls were too confusing
How safe did you feel using this tool?
A little uncomfortable
-- Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Significant resistance, the blade frequently got stuck
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
1-2 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
unsure
What is your main concern with the product?
Safety
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Son or Daughter
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Super Store
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £50
Age
80+
Sex
Female
Type of Housing
House
Tenure
Private
Who normally maintains your garden?
Family
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?
Neutral
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
Endurance
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
How did you find the tool useful to your gardening tasks?
It saved me effort
What were your initial difficulties using the tool:(select those that apply):
The product was too heavy
The product was too large or cumbersome
I had difficulty cutting branches
The controls were too confusing
How safe did you feel using this tool?
A little uncomfortable
-- Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Significant resistance, the blade frequently got stuck
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
1-2 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
unsure
What is your main concern with the product?
Safety
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Son or Daughter
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Super Store
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £50
User Experience: Mr Harris Yiakoumis
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age:
60-65
Sex:
Male
Type of Housing:
Cottage
Tenure:
Private
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?:
Me
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?:
Very Satisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?:
Flexibility
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Moderately difficult
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
Did you find the tool helpful to your gardening tasks:
Yes, it saves me time
What were your initial difficulties using the tool (select those that apply):
No complaints
Did you feel safe using the product?
A little uncomfortable
--Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Very easily, with no resistance
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
More than 3 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
No
What is your main concern with the product?
Cost
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Myself
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Mail Order
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Age:
60-65
Sex:
Male
Type of Housing:
Cottage
Tenure:
Private
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?:
Me
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?:
Very Satisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?:
Flexibility
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Moderately difficult
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
Did you find the tool helpful to your gardening tasks:
Yes, it saves me time
What were your initial difficulties using the tool (select those that apply):
No complaints
Did you feel safe using the product?
A little uncomfortable
--Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Very easily, with no resistance
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
More than 3 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
No
What is your main concern with the product?
Cost
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Myself
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Mail Order
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Tuesday, 13 March 2007
User Experience: Mrs Kathrin Tomson
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age:
71-75
Sex:
Female
Type of Housing:
Flat
Tenure:
Rented
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?:
Me
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?:
Dissatisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?:
Strength
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
Did you find the tool helpful to your gardening tasks:
Yes
What were your initial difficulties using the tool (select those that apply):
The controls were too confusing at the start
Did you feel safe using the product?
Unsafe
--Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Very easily, with no resistance
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge? More than 3 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
Unsure
What is your main concern with the product?
Safety
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Spouse
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Local Store
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Definitely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £15
Age:
71-75
Sex:
Female
Type of Housing:
Flat
Tenure:
Rented
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?:
Me
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?:
Dissatisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?:
Strength
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
Did you find the tool helpful to your gardening tasks:
Yes
What were your initial difficulties using the tool (select those that apply):
The controls were too confusing at the start
Did you feel safe using the product?
Unsafe
--Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Very easily, with no resistance
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge? More than 3 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
Unsure
What is your main concern with the product?
Safety
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Spouse
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Local Store
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Definitely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £15
User Experience: Mr John Smith
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age:
76-80
Sex:
Male
Type of Housing:
House
Tenure:
Private
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?:
Me
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?:
Neutral
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?:
Strength
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Moderately difficult
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
Did you find the tool helpful to your gardening tasks:
Yes
What were your initial difficulties using the tool (select those that apply):
I had difficulty cutting some branches
Did you feel safe using the product?
A little uncomfortable
--Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Significant resistance, the blade frequently got stuck
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
1-2 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
No
What is your main concern with the product?
Breaking it
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Son or Daughter
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Super Store
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Age:
76-80
Sex:
Male
Type of Housing:
House
Tenure:
Private
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?:
Me
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?:
Neutral
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?:
Strength
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Moderately difficult
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
Did you find the tool helpful to your gardening tasks:
Yes
What were your initial difficulties using the tool (select those that apply):
I had difficulty cutting some branches
Did you feel safe using the product?
A little uncomfortable
--Section 3: Device Operation --
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Significant resistance, the blade frequently got stuck
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
1-2 times
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
No
What is your main concern with the product?
Breaking it
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Son or Daughter
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Super Store
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Monday, 12 March 2007
User Experience Questionnaire
Motivation: The following questionnaire is used to identify areas where our product could be improved. The questionnaire will be complimented with actual observations of the product in use. This is because a) answers are not always accurate. b) Observations allow us to take into account the physical environment and how the product is being used
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
60-65
66-70
71-75
75-80
80+
Sex
Male
Female
Type of Housing
House
Flat
Maisonette
Cottage
Tenure
Rented
Freehold
Council
Private
Housing Association
Other
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?
Me
Family
A private gardening company
Housing maintenance
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?
Very Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
Strength
Endurance
Flexibility
Co-ordination
Cost of tools
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Moderately difficult
No problem
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
No
Unsure
How did you find the tool useful to your gardening tasks?
It saved me time
It saved me effort
Neither
What were your initial difficulties using the tool:(select those that apply):
No complaints
The product was too heavy
The product was too large or cumbersome
I had difficulty cutting branches
The controls were too confusing
How safe did you feel using this tool?
Safe
A little uncomfortable
Unsafe
Very unsafe
Section 3: Device Operation
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Very easily, with no resistance
A little more resistance than I would like it
Significant resistance, the blade frequently got stuck
Very badly, the tool was unusable.
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
More than 3 times
1-2 times
I had to recharge the tool once to complete the task
I had to recharge the tool more than once to complete the task.
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
yes
no
unsure
What is your main concern with the product?
No concerns
Safety
Cost
Breaking it
Other _______
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Myself
Spouse
Son or Daughter
Other
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Local Store
Super Store
Mail Order
Other
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Definitely
Most likely
Probably Not
No
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Up to £20
Up to £50
More than £50
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
60-65
66-70
71-75
75-80
80+
Sex
Male
Female
Type of Housing
House
Flat
Maisonette
Cottage
Tenure
Rented
Freehold
Council
Private
Housing Association
Other
Who normally maintains your house and garden plants?
Me
Family
A private gardening company
Housing maintenance
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening existing clipping tools?
Very Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
Strength
Endurance
Flexibility
Co-ordination
Cost of tools
How challenging do you normally find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Moderately difficult
No problem
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
No
Unsure
How did you find the tool useful to your gardening tasks?
It saved me time
It saved me effort
Neither
What were your initial difficulties using the tool:(select those that apply):
No complaints
The product was too heavy
The product was too large or cumbersome
I had difficulty cutting branches
The controls were too confusing
How safe did you feel using this tool?
Safe
A little uncomfortable
Unsafe
Very unsafe
Section 3: Device Operation
How easily did the tool cut your branches?
Very easily, with no resistance
A little more resistance than I would like it
Significant resistance, the blade frequently got stuck
Very badly, the tool was unusable.
How many times could you complete your routine gardening tasks on one charge?
More than 3 times
1-2 times
I had to recharge the tool once to complete the task
I had to recharge the tool more than once to complete the task.
Were you aware of the battery power remaining?
yes
no
unsure
What is your main concern with the product?
No concerns
Safety
Cost
Breaking it
Other _______
-- Section 4: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Myself
Spouse
Son or Daughter
Other
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Local Store
Super Store
Mail Order
Other
Would you consider replacing your old secateurs with these ones?
Definitely
Most likely
Probably Not
No
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Up to £20
Up to £50
More than £50
Scenario - John
The actor:
John Smith
The environment:
The small garden outside John’s home
The time:
Early morning, around 9:00 am, on a sunny Monday, mid June
The task:
John is one of the individuals using the EasyTrim tool. John decided to use it to prune the orange trees in the small garden.
The need:
John wants to take care of his orange trees, he is neglecting for so long. He has to start by removing dead, injured, diseased and crossing branches, suckers and branches growing downward. Orange trees usually respond well to hard pruning, and John wants to see his orange trees increase their production in fruit.
The story:
John found the day exceptional sunny and since he was feeling good he decided to use the newly acquired pruning tool, EasyTrim, to prune his orange trees in the small garden outside his house. He has already used it once for pruning on a different occasion, with great success and he is quite pleased with the tool’s performance. Still, today he is putting it in a greater challenge, since he knows by firsthand that pruning the orange trees is one of the harder gardening tasks he has to deal when taking care his garden.
John, having used the tool before, knows his operation very well, and he has no trouble handling it. He removes the tool from the plastic cover case, removes the safety catch and releases the safety button. He finds the first tree to prune and by pressing the button that triggers the spinning saw, he cuts off small branches with ease. However when he tries to cut off one of the thickest branches, he runs into the first difficulty. The branch has a diameter wider than 2cm, and the saw is just not wide enough to cut the branch all the way through. The safety cap comes in contact with the body of the branch, disallowing the saw to cut any further. John is forced to move himself on the other side of the branch, find the exact point where he was cutting, and continue the cut basically rotating the saw into the gap he created before.
This requires extra effort and time on behalf of John, since several branches of the orange trees have diameter a bit wider than 2cm. Still, John is determined to finish the pruning today so he continues to use the tool, even if he occasionally faces some difficulties. Nevertheless, as John continues to uses EasyTrim, it seems that the saw is losing power. Eventually, after some time of usage, the saw stops to spin, despite all the tries of John to press the button next to his thump harder. John is wondering what the problem might be but sooner or later he figures it out. The batteries of the tool need recharging. Although he has not finished the pruning, he decides to postpone it for another day. He packs EasyTrim and heads back into the house.
The outcome:
Although John was pleased with the overall performance of EasyTrim, he found some difficulties when having to cut branches a bit wider than 2cm. The tools cutting saw must then be refined to accommodate this situation, since a citrus tree garden is quite likely to have trees with thick branches such these. Also John found difficulties in managing the power resources of the tool. The main problem was that he was not aware of the battery charge levels, so he couldn’t estimate the working time he had available.
John Smith
The environment:
The small garden outside John’s home
The time:
Early morning, around 9:00 am, on a sunny Monday, mid June
The task:
John is one of the individuals using the EasyTrim tool. John decided to use it to prune the orange trees in the small garden.
The need:
John wants to take care of his orange trees, he is neglecting for so long. He has to start by removing dead, injured, diseased and crossing branches, suckers and branches growing downward. Orange trees usually respond well to hard pruning, and John wants to see his orange trees increase their production in fruit.
The story:
John found the day exceptional sunny and since he was feeling good he decided to use the newly acquired pruning tool, EasyTrim, to prune his orange trees in the small garden outside his house. He has already used it once for pruning on a different occasion, with great success and he is quite pleased with the tool’s performance. Still, today he is putting it in a greater challenge, since he knows by firsthand that pruning the orange trees is one of the harder gardening tasks he has to deal when taking care his garden.
John, having used the tool before, knows his operation very well, and he has no trouble handling it. He removes the tool from the plastic cover case, removes the safety catch and releases the safety button. He finds the first tree to prune and by pressing the button that triggers the spinning saw, he cuts off small branches with ease. However when he tries to cut off one of the thickest branches, he runs into the first difficulty. The branch has a diameter wider than 2cm, and the saw is just not wide enough to cut the branch all the way through. The safety cap comes in contact with the body of the branch, disallowing the saw to cut any further. John is forced to move himself on the other side of the branch, find the exact point where he was cutting, and continue the cut basically rotating the saw into the gap he created before.
This requires extra effort and time on behalf of John, since several branches of the orange trees have diameter a bit wider than 2cm. Still, John is determined to finish the pruning today so he continues to use the tool, even if he occasionally faces some difficulties. Nevertheless, as John continues to uses EasyTrim, it seems that the saw is losing power. Eventually, after some time of usage, the saw stops to spin, despite all the tries of John to press the button next to his thump harder. John is wondering what the problem might be but sooner or later he figures it out. The batteries of the tool need recharging. Although he has not finished the pruning, he decides to postpone it for another day. He packs EasyTrim and heads back into the house.
The outcome:
Although John was pleased with the overall performance of EasyTrim, he found some difficulties when having to cut branches a bit wider than 2cm. The tools cutting saw must then be refined to accommodate this situation, since a citrus tree garden is quite likely to have trees with thick branches such these. Also John found difficulties in managing the power resources of the tool. The main problem was that he was not aware of the battery charge levels, so he couldn’t estimate the working time he had available.
Scenario - Kathrin
The actor:
Kathrin Tomson
The environment:
The small back yard garden of the building where Kathrin lives
The time:
Late morning, around 11:00 am, on the first Saturday of April
The task:
Kathrin has been selected as one of the individuals to test the EasyTrim tool. Kathrin decided to use it to prune the rose plants in the small garden.
The need:
Bush type roses should be pruned in the early spring when the leaf buds begin to swell, but before growth starts. All wood killed or injured during the winter must be cut back to solid tissue, as well as all weak and twiggy growth branches. The plants must be shaped by cutting strong canes back to a uniform height, removing as little healthy wood as possible and very old canes must be removed totally.
The story:
Kathrin has been postponing the trimming for too long because lately it was a hard task for her, but now that she has a new tool she feels more confident and enthusiastic about pruning the old rose plants. However, this is the first time she is using a power tool of this kind, so she feels a bit reluctant in using a tool that has a self-powered spinning saw. She is wondering whether this tool is safe enough to be used as a gardening tool, and she is very cautious while handling it.
After finding the first plant to prune, and deciding which branches to cut off, Kathrin removes the plastic cover case of EasyTrim. What firstly made an impression to her, it was the fact that this tool was quite lightweight, far lighter than what she had in mind when she was thinking about power tools for trimming. Holding the tool in her hands she sees that is fully closed and kept in that position with the safety catch that binds the two handles together. She removes the safety catch and EasyTrim comes to a fully open position, due to the spring that the tool has between the handles. She holds it in one hand and she sees that it is easy to open and close it.
Still the saw is not operating so she looks for a way to get it started. There are two buttons at the top handle, one being exactly next to her thump, and one at the side of the handle. Kathrin is not quite familiar with this kind of tools, so she randomly presses one of them. She is surprised to see that the button next to her thump cannot be pressed and for a moment she thinks that the tool might have a problem. There is still the button at the side of the top handle, so she presses that one to find that it pops out. The saw still does not work but she thinks that guns have a similar safety button, as far as she knows. So, she once again tries to press the first button. Now the saw starts to spin, in a surprisingly not loud high frequency sound. She removes her thump from the button only to find that the saw stops to spin. Kathrin notices that the saw is spinning faster as she presses the button harder with her thump. While the saw is still spinning, Kathrin places the branch that she wants to cut between the lower safety cap and the circular saw. She presses the handles to close and unexpectedly easy the saw is sinking into the 1 cm diameter branch, as the lower handle pushes it against it.
The branch is easily detached from the plant. She is still pressing the button that made the saw spin, but once she releases it, the saw stops to operate. Kathrin follows the same procedure to cut the remaining branches from the rose plants, with ease. At the end she remembers to push the safety switch back to the locking position. She closes the secateurs with the safety catch and she puts it back to the plastic cover case.
The outcome:
Kathrin found the use of EasyTrim very easy, but she had some difficulties in recognizing the buttons that operated it. She did not immediately notice the two buttons, and she failed to see the difference between them and to recognize their operation in advance. Thus, it is obvious that some sort of modification is in need, in order to make these two buttons recognizable.
Kathrin Tomson
The environment:
The small back yard garden of the building where Kathrin lives
The time:
Late morning, around 11:00 am, on the first Saturday of April
The task:
Kathrin has been selected as one of the individuals to test the EasyTrim tool. Kathrin decided to use it to prune the rose plants in the small garden.
The need:
Bush type roses should be pruned in the early spring when the leaf buds begin to swell, but before growth starts. All wood killed or injured during the winter must be cut back to solid tissue, as well as all weak and twiggy growth branches. The plants must be shaped by cutting strong canes back to a uniform height, removing as little healthy wood as possible and very old canes must be removed totally.
The story:
Kathrin has been postponing the trimming for too long because lately it was a hard task for her, but now that she has a new tool she feels more confident and enthusiastic about pruning the old rose plants. However, this is the first time she is using a power tool of this kind, so she feels a bit reluctant in using a tool that has a self-powered spinning saw. She is wondering whether this tool is safe enough to be used as a gardening tool, and she is very cautious while handling it.
After finding the first plant to prune, and deciding which branches to cut off, Kathrin removes the plastic cover case of EasyTrim. What firstly made an impression to her, it was the fact that this tool was quite lightweight, far lighter than what she had in mind when she was thinking about power tools for trimming. Holding the tool in her hands she sees that is fully closed and kept in that position with the safety catch that binds the two handles together. She removes the safety catch and EasyTrim comes to a fully open position, due to the spring that the tool has between the handles. She holds it in one hand and she sees that it is easy to open and close it.
Still the saw is not operating so she looks for a way to get it started. There are two buttons at the top handle, one being exactly next to her thump, and one at the side of the handle. Kathrin is not quite familiar with this kind of tools, so she randomly presses one of them. She is surprised to see that the button next to her thump cannot be pressed and for a moment she thinks that the tool might have a problem. There is still the button at the side of the top handle, so she presses that one to find that it pops out. The saw still does not work but she thinks that guns have a similar safety button, as far as she knows. So, she once again tries to press the first button. Now the saw starts to spin, in a surprisingly not loud high frequency sound. She removes her thump from the button only to find that the saw stops to spin. Kathrin notices that the saw is spinning faster as she presses the button harder with her thump. While the saw is still spinning, Kathrin places the branch that she wants to cut between the lower safety cap and the circular saw. She presses the handles to close and unexpectedly easy the saw is sinking into the 1 cm diameter branch, as the lower handle pushes it against it.
The branch is easily detached from the plant. She is still pressing the button that made the saw spin, but once she releases it, the saw stops to operate. Kathrin follows the same procedure to cut the remaining branches from the rose plants, with ease. At the end she remembers to push the safety switch back to the locking position. She closes the secateurs with the safety catch and she puts it back to the plastic cover case.
The outcome:
Kathrin found the use of EasyTrim very easy, but she had some difficulties in recognizing the buttons that operated it. She did not immediately notice the two buttons, and she failed to see the difference between them and to recognize their operation in advance. Thus, it is obvious that some sort of modification is in need, in order to make these two buttons recognizable.
Sunday, 11 March 2007
Naming Decision Final
After reviewing the votes and thoughts that everyone had, we have choosen the name for our new tool to be EasyTrim!
Naming the product: Demetris's Opinion
I think a product's name should always be something that points out to the consumer a general advantage that the user will obtain from buying a certain product instead of other similar products. Therefore, since our product aims to make the task of gardening for the elderly easier, I vote for EasyTrim.
Naming the Product: Gavin's Suggestion
I feel we should aim for something subtle and that we should do our best to avoid American style branding like POWER-trim, SNIP-AIDE etc. I think Brits tend to appreciate fun sounding names like "strimmer" and "jig-saw". What about the strutter?
Naming the product: Eliana's Suggestion
Hey guys, I think we need to decide on a name for our product. It should be something that reminds the potential user its use and positive attributes. I was thinking something like 'MeanTrim', but I think it shows aggressiveness, and we need to give the user the sense of security instead. Also we need to show that is an easy to use tool but at the same time powerfull. So what do you think about PowerPrunner, or EasyTrim?
Friday, 9 March 2007
Design Concerns - Motor
Talking about a maintenance-free means that any damage to the motor or the circular blade will acquire the user to return the automatic secateurs to the shop where a technician will repair the tool. Assigning the maintenance task to the elderly will be a great disadvantage for the tool. It will require the user to acquire knowledge of how the tool works internally, a totally needless task.
Also you are right that we have forgotten to mention where the motor will be. The motor is situated at the front end of the upper handle, right in front of the battery. Since the motor has a cylindrical shape it will only require a small modification on the right side of the handle. Basically a small round extension on the right side.
Also you are right that we have forgotten to mention where the motor will be. The motor is situated at the front end of the upper handle, right in front of the battery. Since the motor has a cylindrical shape it will only require a small modification on the right side of the handle. Basically a small round extension on the right side.
Design Concerns
I think that making a tool like this "maintenance free" is unrealistic as even the best hardened blades wear down remarkably quickly and need replacing. The teeth will need to be very small to prevent sticking, which makes them wear out even faster. We would need to make it so that the blade can be changed by the owner.
We have also not factored into the current design
where the motor for the saw will be. The photo on the left is of a dremel motor. I speculate that we would need something like this to cut through a branch up to 1cm diameter. This could be done relatively easily with regular secateurs providing the branch is not too dry.
On reflection, the group has decided that the tool can be serviced in store or returned to the manufacturer. With normal usage* the blade will need to be replaced every two years.
*normal usage is determined from emprirical data.
We have also not factored into the current design
where the motor for the saw will be. The photo on the left is of a dremel motor. I speculate that we would need something like this to cut through a branch up to 1cm diameter. This could be done relatively easily with regular secateurs providing the branch is not too dry.On reflection, the group has decided that the tool can be serviced in store or returned to the manufacturer. With normal usage* the blade will need to be replaced every two years.
*normal usage is determined from emprirical data.
Monday, 5 March 2007
Saturday, 3 March 2007
Thoughts on Creative Design
The initial design looks promising. I like in particular the way in which it builds on pre-existing knowledge and looks as if it could be used intuitively. Whether or not is intuitive to our target market will only be established after the product has been tested. Experience has show that what may appear as common-sense to the designer is not always so to the user.
Creative Design Prototype: Final
After completing our brainstorming considering the creative design of our prototype the following picture represents the final version of the Automatic Secateurs.
Thursday, 1 March 2007
Creative Design Prototype: Durable
I totally aggree. The handles should be strong, since i had to throw away a few of these tools because the handle broke as i was operating them. Take a look at this drawing.
Also another important requirement is that the secateur will have to be maintenance-free. The elderly will find it extremely difficult to reassemble, clean and assemble back the secatuer blade.
Also another important requirement is that the secateur will have to be maintenance-free. The elderly will find it extremely difficult to reassemble, clean and assemble back the secatuer blade.
Wednesday, 28 February 2007
Creative Design Prototype: Durable
We should aim at something lightweight. The lighter the tool will be the better for the elderly. We could use an aluminum skeleton, being both lightweight and to prevent rust. Also the plastic handles should be strong and made out of a non-slipping material. A day in the garden can be quite hot and sweating on the hands is a very common thing.. We don't want the secateur to be slipping out of hands. We have to remember that the elderly tend to have trembling hands and it is much more easier to slip.
Creative Design Prototype: Battery and Power Consumption
I like the idea about the way that we can distinguish the charger's plug using the yellow colour. It could be proved quite useful considering the eye sight of the elderly. Small ideas like these can certainly be an advantage as a whole.
Creative Design Prototype: Battery and Power Consumption
As a safety issue we should make sure that the circular blade is cover both during operation so as not to exceed the front part of the secateurs, as well as when the tool is closed to provide a protective cover on the lower front part.
We haven't thought of a place to put the battery. Since we are aiming for a simple tool, i believe that there is no need for the elderly to change batteries all the time.
The tool should have a rechargeable battery that can last multiple tasks. Also there should be a clear and bright color on the place where the charge should be plugged in. A bright color around the hole that the plug will be place will be useful.
I have placed the battery to be on the uppen handle. The battery should be as light as possible, therefore as far as I know the lightest batteries are the ones made out of Li-Ion. Light-weight is an another advantage to maintain. I hope you agree on the design I have uploaded. Let me know about your opinion regarding this feature.
We haven't thought of a place to put the battery. Since we are aiming for a simple tool, i believe that there is no need for the elderly to change batteries all the time.
The tool should have a rechargeable battery that can last multiple tasks. Also there should be a clear and bright color on the place where the charge should be plugged in. A bright color around the hole that the plug will be place will be useful.
I have placed the battery to be on the uppen handle. The battery should be as light as possible, therefore as far as I know the lightest batteries are the ones made out of Li-Ion. Light-weight is an another advantage to maintain. I hope you agree on the design I have uploaded. Let me know about your opinion regarding this feature.
Monday, 26 February 2007
Creative Design Prototype: Safety features: Safety Catch
After considering both designs, I prefer the first one. I used this design to draw another feature that we should implement. We need to provide a way to keep the automatic secateurs closed when the user is not using it, so as to prevent any accidental cuts from the blade. A safety catch is the most suitable solution.
Another feature we have to consider is power consumption and the battery.
Another feature we have to consider is power consumption and the battery.
Sunday, 25 February 2007
Creative Design Prototype: Convenient handle
I agree. it's another good design. What do you think? Which one is the best?
Creative Design Prototype: Convenient Handle
I find it really good. You should take a look at the design I have in mind. It is another way to provide a good handle on the secatuer.
Creative Design Prototype: Convenient handle
Yes you are right, I remember that my father had one which didn’t had an easy to grasp handle and he was complaining that it is not easy to use since it doesn’t have something to hold it tight. It is also dangerous to harm your self. I believe our product should provide this feature.
Creative Design Prototype: Discussion
Let’s focus on the features that we need to implement. To start with, I know from experience that this tool is more convenient to use when it provides you with an easy to grasp handle. I have two secateurs at home, one with a curved handle and one with a straight one. I find it easier to use the curved one.
Creative Design Prototype: Discussion
Indeed! This is a great advantage. As it is well known the elderly prefer to stick with things they are already familiar with.
Creative Design Prototype: Discussion
After thorough consideration and voting between the group members we decided to implement the fist design for the Automatic Secateurs.
The first design is simple and almost everyone is familiar to it. Gavin's design although much simpler, it doesn't suit the purpose we intend to fulfill. A longer handle could be quite a nuisance for the elderly. That type of secateurs could be mainly used for high branches on trees. Usually the elderly deal with small and short plants or trees. A longer handle could also be proved difficult to handle.
Eliana's design is also rejected mainly due to technical problems arising from the fact that the elderly will have to place the plastic around the branch each time they want to use it. If we take it from their point of view, this step means wasting time to pass the tape through the hole. For most of them it can be a very difficult task considering the poor eyesight. Also it is radically different from the classical designs and elderly will not be willing to adapt to totally new ways of thinking.
I believe that this is a good point to start. As I can see this secateur maintains the classical secateur design.
The first design is simple and almost everyone is familiar to it. Gavin's design although much simpler, it doesn't suit the purpose we intend to fulfill. A longer handle could be quite a nuisance for the elderly. That type of secateurs could be mainly used for high branches on trees. Usually the elderly deal with small and short plants or trees. A longer handle could also be proved difficult to handle.
Eliana's design is also rejected mainly due to technical problems arising from the fact that the elderly will have to place the plastic around the branch each time they want to use it. If we take it from their point of view, this step means wasting time to pass the tape through the hole. For most of them it can be a very difficult task considering the poor eyesight. Also it is radically different from the classical designs and elderly will not be willing to adapt to totally new ways of thinking.
I believe that this is a good point to start. As I can see this secateur maintains the classical secateur design.
Scenario: A feel with the problem in hand
Kathrin cutting a branch
Kathrin wakes up and as usual has breakfast with her husband. Today is an exceptional sunny day, so she decides that it’s about time to cut the old branches of the rose plants in the small garden of the building she is living. She takes her dog for a quick walk, and then heads down to the back yard. She has with her the plastic toolbox that contains all her gardening tools. She takes a deep breath of fresh air, wears her gardening gloves and picks up a saw with wooden handle.
Moving towards the rose plants, she selects the first branch to cut. Kathrin places the saw in the right position, and with her left hand she holds the branch. Trying to move the saw back and forth, she sees that the branch moves as well, but she cannot hold it any firmly as the thorns of the rose plant will penetrate her gloves. “This is not working” she thinks, as she decides to use the secateurs in her toolbox. These secateurs pretty much work as scissors do, so she puts the blades around the branch and by using her right hand only she tries to squeeze the handles to bring them together.
Kathrin realizes that it will require much more strength to do that, as her hands are not as strong as they used to be. She takes the secateurs with both hands and presses the handles. The secateurs seem to be closing but not as much as she would like to, certainly not enough to cut the branch. She starts to get annoyed by the situation, so she turns the secateurs left and right, slowly damaging the branch. Finally the blades close and the excess piece of branch falls to the ground. Kathrin looks at the result disappointed. Not quite the clear cut she was wishing for. She puts her tools back in her toolbox and thinks to herself: “There are better and more fun things to do on such a lovely day”.
Kathrin wakes up and as usual has breakfast with her husband. Today is an exceptional sunny day, so she decides that it’s about time to cut the old branches of the rose plants in the small garden of the building she is living. She takes her dog for a quick walk, and then heads down to the back yard. She has with her the plastic toolbox that contains all her gardening tools. She takes a deep breath of fresh air, wears her gardening gloves and picks up a saw with wooden handle.
Moving towards the rose plants, she selects the first branch to cut. Kathrin places the saw in the right position, and with her left hand she holds the branch. Trying to move the saw back and forth, she sees that the branch moves as well, but she cannot hold it any firmly as the thorns of the rose plant will penetrate her gloves. “This is not working” she thinks, as she decides to use the secateurs in her toolbox. These secateurs pretty much work as scissors do, so she puts the blades around the branch and by using her right hand only she tries to squeeze the handles to bring them together.
Kathrin realizes that it will require much more strength to do that, as her hands are not as strong as they used to be. She takes the secateurs with both hands and presses the handles. The secateurs seem to be closing but not as much as she would like to, certainly not enough to cut the branch. She starts to get annoyed by the situation, so she turns the secateurs left and right, slowly damaging the branch. Finally the blades close and the excess piece of branch falls to the ground. Kathrin looks at the result disappointed. Not quite the clear cut she was wishing for. She puts her tools back in her toolbox and thinks to herself: “There are better and more fun things to do on such a lovely day”.
Problem Scenarios Definition
Problem Scenarios:
A problem scenario tells a story of current practice. These stories are carefully developed to reveal aspects of the actors and their activities that have implications for design.
Other members of the project team should be able to read the problem scenarios and appreciate the work-related issues that the field study has uncovered.
It is called "problem scenarios" not because they emphasize problematic aspects of current practices, but rather because they describe activities in the problem domain. In Senario Based Design new activities are always grounded in current activities.
"Usability Engineering: Scenario-Based Development of Human Computer Interaction"
by Mary Beth Rosson, John M. Carroll
http://ldt.stanford.edu/~gimiller/Scenario-Based/ProblemScen.htm
A problem scenario tells a story of current practice. These stories are carefully developed to reveal aspects of the actors and their activities that have implications for design.
Other members of the project team should be able to read the problem scenarios and appreciate the work-related issues that the field study has uncovered.
It is called "problem scenarios" not because they emphasize problematic aspects of current practices, but rather because they describe activities in the problem domain. In Senario Based Design new activities are always grounded in current activities.
"Usability Engineering: Scenario-Based Development of Human Computer Interaction"
by Mary Beth Rosson, John M. Carroll
http://ldt.stanford.edu/~gimiller/Scenario-Based/ProblemScen.htm
Saturday, 24 February 2007
Task Analysis:Task->Cutting a branch
1. Locate the secateurs.
2. Reach towards them.
3. Grab the secateurs.
4. Check the battery level on the battery level indicator.
5. Move towards the tree.
6. Locate the desired branch.
7. Identify the safety catch on the secateur.
8. Remove the safety catch.
9. Open the secateur carefully.
10. Place the branch carefully between the two edges of the secateur.
11. Identify the safety button on the secateur.
12. Disable safety by pressing the safety button.
13. Identify the start/stop button.
14. Press gentle on the start/stop button.
15. Keep pressing until branch is cut.
16. Close the secatuer carefully.
17. Press safety button.
18. Attach safety catch.
19. Place secatuer back in place.
2. Reach towards them.
3. Grab the secateurs.
4. Check the battery level on the battery level indicator.
5. Move towards the tree.
6. Locate the desired branch.
7. Identify the safety catch on the secateur.
8. Remove the safety catch.
9. Open the secateur carefully.
10. Place the branch carefully between the two edges of the secateur.
11. Identify the safety button on the secateur.
12. Disable safety by pressing the safety button.
13. Identify the start/stop button.
14. Press gentle on the start/stop button.
15. Keep pressing until branch is cut.
16. Close the secatuer carefully.
17. Press safety button.
18. Attach safety catch.
19. Place secatuer back in place.
Task Analysis:Definition
Task analysis is the analysis or a breakdown of exactly how a task is accomplished, such as what sub-tasks are required. This information can then be used for many purposes, such as improving the design of tools or procedures that aid in performing the task. These tools can be either physical implements or software.
Job task analysis is the cornerstone of Competency Testing. Conducting an effective job analysis requires understanding what information is necessary for the project, how to best extract that information from the organization, and how to best analyze the data received in order to provide the clearest picture of the job under study. In test development, the job analysis study should result in the identification of the essential tasks and duties, knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the job. For training design, frequency and consequence of error are two important factors to consider in identifying critical tasks or duties upon which to train. The specific criteria used should be based on the goal of the study.
Task analysis is a systematic breakdown of a task into its elements, specifically including a detailed task description of both manual and mental activities, task and element durations, task frequency, task allocation, task complexity, environmental conditions, necessary clothing and equipment, and any other unique factors involved in or required for one or more humans to perform a given task.
Wikipedia
Job task analysis is the cornerstone of Competency Testing. Conducting an effective job analysis requires understanding what information is necessary for the project, how to best extract that information from the organization, and how to best analyze the data received in order to provide the clearest picture of the job under study. In test development, the job analysis study should result in the identification of the essential tasks and duties, knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the job. For training design, frequency and consequence of error are two important factors to consider in identifying critical tasks or duties upon which to train. The specific criteria used should be based on the goal of the study.
Task analysis is a systematic breakdown of a task into its elements, specifically including a detailed task description of both manual and mental activities, task and element durations, task frequency, task allocation, task complexity, environmental conditions, necessary clothing and equipment, and any other unique factors involved in or required for one or more humans to perform a given task.
Wikipedia
Friday, 23 February 2007
Initial Requirements
Flexibility:
The automatic secateurs should be easy to be use by the elderly in the sense that it must be lightweight, compact, portable and easy to manipulate when performing a pruning task. This is because the elderly usually lack of strength, coordination and mobility.
The automatic secateurs should be easy to be use by the elderly in the sense that it must be lightweight, compact, portable and easy to manipulate when performing a pruning task. This is because the elderly usually lack of strength, coordination and mobility.
Initial Requirements
Health and safety:
The automatic secateurs can be proved to be very dangerous if the appropriate measures are not provided to fulfil safety issues.
The design should take under consideration all kind of possible hazards from the tool as well as the fact that the elderly are very clampsy using tools and technology.
Performance:
The automatic secateurs must be powerful enough to be able to fulfil the requirement of gardening.
Furthermore the battery should be strong enough to endure multiple tasks without any problems.
The automatic secateurs can be proved to be very dangerous if the appropriate measures are not provided to fulfil safety issues.
The design should take under consideration all kind of possible hazards from the tool as well as the fact that the elderly are very clampsy using tools and technology.
Performance:
The automatic secateurs must be powerful enough to be able to fulfil the requirement of gardening.
Furthermore the battery should be strong enough to endure multiple tasks without any problems.
Initial Requirements
This section provides a list of the non-functional requirements of the selected product.
Usability:
The elderly should find the automatic secateurs simple and easy to use.
The steps to complete the targeted outcome should require the minimum amount of steps.
Durable:
The product must be durable to the weather condition in which it might be used under.
The tool should be waterproof since it will have to be used in moist conditions or to withstand water taking into account the fact that the elderly the secateurs outside in the garden.
Furthermore the lifetime of the tool is of grave importance. It must withstand difficulties of time damage.
Usability:
The elderly should find the automatic secateurs simple and easy to use.
The steps to complete the targeted outcome should require the minimum amount of steps.
Durable:
The product must be durable to the weather condition in which it might be used under.
The tool should be waterproof since it will have to be used in moist conditions or to withstand water taking into account the fact that the elderly the secateurs outside in the garden.
Furthermore the lifetime of the tool is of grave importance. It must withstand difficulties of time damage.
Thursday, 22 February 2007
Creative Design Prototype: Gavin's Design
The style of this device is not radically different from traditional secateurs, this has several distinct advantages which I will outline shortly.
Distinguishing Features
- Long handle for extended reach.
- Long handle enhances leverage, making cutting easier.
- Lightweight fibre glass or strong plastics for light weight
- Does not require any instructions or training to use
- lower cost
- Easy to use
- Safer
- Does not require batteries or recharging.
- Light weight
- Fewer moving parts, therefore less to go wrong.
Disadvantages
- The longer handle may accentuate poor hand-eye coordination.
Wednesday, 21 February 2007
Creative Design Prototype: Eliana
This is the idea proposed by Eliana for the design of automatic secateurs. It has a different approach than the conventional secateurs in that it uses a circular saw to cut, but also a belt to assist in cutting. More specific, the belt is placed around the branch and into the belt grip, pressing it towards the circular saw. As the secateurs operate, the circular saw spins and the belt is folded inside the secateurs, using a rolling mechanism. This puts pressure to the branch, towards the saw, making the cutting proccess really easy. It takes only one hand to operate the secateurs.
Creative Design Prototype: Demetris & Polydoros Design
This is the first design available. Designed by Demetris and Polydoros. Using this design the secateurs will maintain the basic figure of the traditional secateurs. Something that we consider to be very important since the elderly find it hard to adapt to new designs and things that are completely unknown to them. A battery operated circular blade will replace the originally used blade. As this is just a first draft we will not move on to the additional features that may be needed.
Figure 1:Secateurs 1 Open
Figure 2:Secateurs 1 Closed
Figure 1:Secateurs 1 Open
Figure 2:Secateurs 1 Closed
Creative Design Prototype
In order to proceed to the prototype we have to decide on the three different designs proposed for the automatic secatuers. Each design is completely different from the other two, and all are worth consideration in obtaining the most suitable one to create.
Tuesday, 20 February 2007
Market Research and Creative Design
Going through the products available to the market, gave us many ideas of how our product could be designed using features already implemented by other products, but also by adding features that could make our product's design innovative. We recognized that all commercial products have great advantages concerning the task they are designed for, but having in mind our personas we felt that something was missing. We concluded that a tool that combines features from both categories, as recognized through the market research, can serve to satisfy the needs of our personas.
More specifically, we decided that a tool that has the flexibility of a small hand pruner and the capabilities of a power tool is an innovative design idea that can evolve to a great pruning tool for the elderly.
More specifically, we decided that a tool that has the flexibility of a small hand pruner and the capabilities of a power tool is an innovative design idea that can evolve to a great pruning tool for the elderly.
Market Research
Having decided to design and develop automatic secateurs, we conducted a market research to see what kind of similar products where available to the buyers. The general products for pruning can be divided in two major categories, one consisting of simple hand pruners and the other consisting of pruning power tools.
Hand pruners
The general characteristics of the first category are:
- They have similar operation as common scissors
- The tool is usually operable by one hand, although for heavy tasks the tools might need to use both hands
- Usually small in size
- Made by lightweight materials
- The prices range from £5 to £200
http://www.philipmorris.uk.com/prdf.php?pid=3428
http://www.worldoffelco.co.uk/menu/301/Felco%20Secateurs.html
Pruning power tools
The general characteristics of the second category are:
- They have power assisted movable parts, such as blades and saws
- The tools usually need to use both hands
- Rather large in size
- Heavyweight tools
- Safety issues are in hand
- The prices range from £100 to £1500
User Requirements Questionaire - Answers
The following are the answers to the questionaire used to gather data about preferences for gardening as taken from our personas.
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
John: 76-80
Harris: 60-65
Kathrin: 71-75
May: 80+
Sex
John: Male
Harris: Male
Kathrin: Female
May: Female
Type of Housing
John: House
Harris: Cottage
Kathrin: Flat
May: House
Tenure
John: Private
Harris: Private
Kathrin: Rented
May: Private
Do you have a garden?
John: Yes
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: Yes
May: Yes
If you have a garden, who maintains it?
John: Me
Harris: Me
Kathrin: Me
May: Family
How inclined would you be to help maintain your garden given the opportunity
May: Very Much so
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening clipping tools?
John: Neutral
Harris: Very Satisfied
Kathrin: Dissatisfied
May: Neutral
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
John: Strength
Harris: Flexibility
Kathrin: Strength
May: Endurance
How challenging do you find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
John: Moderately difficult
Harris: No problem
Kathrin: Moderately difficult
May: Moderately difficult
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
John: Yes
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: Yes
May: Yes
-- Section 3: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
John: Son or Daughter
Harris: Myself
Kathrin: Spoose
May: Son or Daughter
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Harris: Local Store
Kathrin: Super Store
Would you consider replacing your existing gardening tools?
Harris: Most likely
Kathrin: Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Harris: Up to £50
Kathrin: Up to £50
-- Section 4: Confidence with Power tools --
Do you have any power tools in your home?
John: No
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: No
May: No
If yes, how often do you use power tools in your home or garden?
Harris: At least once per month
How comfortable would you feel about using a power tool instead of a manual tool to clip branches?
John: Very Uncomfortable
Harris: Definitely more comfortable
Kathrin: Comfortable
May: Uncomfortable Neutral
Would you feel confident recharging batteries?
John: Yes
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: Yes
May: Yes
What is your main concern with power tools?
John: Safety
Harris: Cost
Kathrin: Safety
May: Breaking them
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
John: 76-80
Harris: 60-65
Kathrin: 71-75
May: 80+
Sex
John: Male
Harris: Male
Kathrin: Female
May: Female
Type of Housing
John: House
Harris: Cottage
Kathrin: Flat
May: House
Tenure
John: Private
Harris: Private
Kathrin: Rented
May: Private
Do you have a garden?
John: Yes
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: Yes
May: Yes
If you have a garden, who maintains it?
John: Me
Harris: Me
Kathrin: Me
May: Family
How inclined would you be to help maintain your garden given the opportunity
May: Very Much so
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening clipping tools?
John: Neutral
Harris: Very Satisfied
Kathrin: Dissatisfied
May: Neutral
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
John: Strength
Harris: Flexibility
Kathrin: Strength
May: Endurance
How challenging do you find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
John: Moderately difficult
Harris: No problem
Kathrin: Moderately difficult
May: Moderately difficult
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
John: Yes
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: Yes
May: Yes
-- Section 3: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
John: Son or Daughter
Harris: Myself
Kathrin: Spoose
May: Son or Daughter
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Harris: Local Store
Kathrin: Super Store
Would you consider replacing your existing gardening tools?
Harris: Most likely
Kathrin: Most likely
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Harris: Up to £50
Kathrin: Up to £50
-- Section 4: Confidence with Power tools --
Do you have any power tools in your home?
John: No
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: No
May: No
If yes, how often do you use power tools in your home or garden?
Harris: At least once per month
How comfortable would you feel about using a power tool instead of a manual tool to clip branches?
John: Very Uncomfortable
Harris: Definitely more comfortable
Kathrin: Comfortable
May: Uncomfortable Neutral
Would you feel confident recharging batteries?
John: Yes
Harris: Yes
Kathrin: Yes
May: Yes
What is your main concern with power tools?
John: Safety
Harris: Cost
Kathrin: Safety
May: Breaking them
User Requirements Questionaire
Motivation: The following questionaire is used to gather data about preferences for gardening tools in the wider elderly population. It will help to determine the needs of our personas concerning gardening tools.
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
60-65
66-70
71-75
76-80
80+
Sex
Male
Female
Type of Housing
House
Flat
Maisonette
Cottage
Tenure
Rented
Freehold
Council
Private
Housing Association
Other
Do you have a garden?
Yes
No
If you have a garden, who maintains it?
Me
Family
A private gardening company
Housing maintenance
How inclined would you be to help maintain your garden given the opportunity?
Very Much so
Little
Not at all
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening clipping tools?
Very Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
Strength
Endurance
Flexibility
Co-ordination
Cost of tools
How challenging do you find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Moderately difficult
No problem
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
No
Unsure
-- Section 3: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Myself
Spouse
Son or Daughter
Other
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Local Store
Super Store
Mail Order
Other
Would you consider replacing your existing gardening tools?
Definitely
Most likely
Probably Not
No
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Up to £20
Up to £50
More than £50
-- Section 4: Confidence with Power tools --
Do you have any power tools in your home?
Yes
No
If yes, how often do you use power tools in your home or garden?
1. At least once per month
2. At least once per year
3. Less than once per year
4. Never
How comfortable would you feel about using a power tool instead of a manual tool to clip branches?
1. Very Uncomfortable
2. Uncomfortable Neutral
3. Comfortable
4. Definitely more comfortable
Would you feel confident recharging batteries?
Yes
No
What is your main concern with power tools?
No concerns
Safety
Cost
Breaking them
Other _______
-- Section 1: Demographics --
Age
60-65
66-70
71-75
76-80
80+
Sex
Male
Female
Type of Housing
House
Flat
Maisonette
Cottage
Tenure
Rented
Freehold
Council
Private
Housing Association
Other
Do you have a garden?
Yes
No
If you have a garden, who maintains it?
Me
Family
A private gardening company
Housing maintenance
How inclined would you be to help maintain your garden given the opportunity?
Very Much so
Little
Not at all
-- Section 2: Practicality and usefulness of product --
How satisfied are you with your gardening clipping tools?
Very Satisfied
Neutral
Dissatisfied
What is your greatest limitation in the garden?
Strength
Endurance
Flexibility
Co-ordination
Cost of tools
How challenging do you find cutting branches up to 1/2 inch across?
Very challenging
Moderately difficult
No problem
Can you foresee this becoming more challenging in the future?
Yes
No
Unsure
-- Section 3: Cost and purchasing habits --
Who buys your gardening tools?
Myself
Spouse
Son or Daughter
Other
Where do you purchase your gardening tools?
Local Store
Super Store
Mail Order
Other
Would you consider replacing your existing gardening tools?
Definitely
Most likely
Probably Not
No
How much would you be prepared to spend?
Up to £10
Up to £20
Up to £50
More than £50
-- Section 4: Confidence with Power tools --
Do you have any power tools in your home?
Yes
No
If yes, how often do you use power tools in your home or garden?
1. At least once per month
2. At least once per year
3. Less than once per year
4. Never
How comfortable would you feel about using a power tool instead of a manual tool to clip branches?
1. Very Uncomfortable
2. Uncomfortable Neutral
3. Comfortable
4. Definitely more comfortable
Would you feel confident recharging batteries?
Yes
No
What is your main concern with power tools?
No concerns
Safety
Cost
Breaking them
Other _______
Saturday, 17 February 2007
Final Ideas Results: Automatic Secateurs
After receiving the results of the voting , the Automatic Secateurs wins the battle. The results of the voting were the following:
Automatic Secateurs:3
Simple Oven: 2
E-Book: 2
Instruction Book:1
Therefore the team has decide to proceed with the idea of the Automatic Secateurs
Automatic Secateurs:3
Simple Oven: 2
E-Book: 2
Instruction Book:1
Therefore the team has decide to proceed with the idea of the Automatic Secateurs
Selecting Final Ideas: Gavin
My vote goes to the e-book reader, and interactive instruction book. The simple oven has been a popular choice however I do not feel that the operation of most conventional ovens is a significant enough challenge to warrant a redesign. Gardening on the other hand can be a very enjoyable experience that has been taken away from many of the elderly by their deteriorated health. Any tool that could facilitate their enjoyment and productivity in the garden would be highly beneficial! However I do not feel the group can confidently undertake such a design challenge. I believe that the interactive instruction book would be very useful if correctly implemented as it would allow the elderly take control of devices around their home which would otherwise be too challenging. Both the e-book reader and instruction book will allow us to effectively demonstrate the learning outcomes of the module using existing knowledge and new skills that we learn along the way.
Selecting Final Ideas: Eliana
I find it more interesting in applying one of the ideas proposed for the group of elderly. In particular, my preference goes to the following:
- Automatic Secateurs: This product seems to be a very useful tool for those elderly people who want to get involve with gardening but find that some tasks are just to difficult for them. It gives them the ability to get involved with something they enjoy and not get too frustrated about it.
- E-Book Previewer: Another idea that sounds promising when it comes to satisfying the needs of the elderly. Many of them enjoy reading but find it too tiring to read through a book with small letters, or even turn the pages. This product can help them make reading more enjoyable.
Selecting Final ideas: Polydoros
I personally vote for products that are concentrated for the group of the elderly. Out of the first ideas extracted from the brainstorming session i vote for the following ideas.
- Simple Oven: A simple easy to use oven is good for a final idea for the group of the elderly. An oven with simple features for helping the elderly who already know how to cook but also help those who want to learn how to cook. With the advantages that technology has to offer we have to think of products for helping the elderly in the every day lives.
- Automatic Secateurs: The second idea that I'm voting for, is the automatic secateurs. Since the elderly is a group that has the time and enjoy spending much of their time taking care of their garden, automatic secateurs will ease their life and make garden care more easy and fun.
Selecting Final Ideas: Demetris
I vote in favor of the following two ideas:
- Simple Oven: I think that a low-cost, basic oven with some kind of easy-to-use features will be an excellent product for the group of elderly. As technology advances some things just get too much complicated and we should help people take advantage of the technology.
- Automatic Secateurs: This is another excellent idea according to my opinion of course. The reasons for supporting this is the fact that a large percentage of people above 60 years old is spending a lot of time doing gardening. It is something that helps them relax and enjoy life. Why not make it even more relaxing and easier for them?
Friday, 16 February 2007
Selecting Final Ideas
After careful consideration of the ideas that we have managed to come up with, after our brainstorming session, it is time for us to vote. Each one of us will have to select two out of the eight initial ideas that he/she things are the most suitable and worthwhile. The idea that will obtain the highest amount of votes will be our final idea. In case of a draw a second voting will have to take place.
Wednesday, 14 February 2007
Personas: Mrs May Fernandez
Name: Mrs May Fernandez
Age: 81 years old
Occupation: Housewife
Marital Status: Widowed
Children: Two Sons, Two Daughters
Mrs Fernandes is a British Indian born in Kenya. She and her family moved to England in 1968
shortly following Kenya’s independence. She now resides with her 50 year old son, a professional accountant in London who himself suffers from muscular dystrophy. May can read and write English but does not have a strong grasp of the language. Her formal education ended at age 15 when she married her late husband and started a family. For the past eight years, she has suffered from particularly poor health, with much of her time spent in and out of hospital. Because of her ill health she is unable to care for herself however she refuses to move to a care home. Due to a number of factors she is highly suspicious of strangers almost to the point of paranoia. She does not enjoy socialising very much although loneliness is not a concern. Her deportation from kenya and medication may contribute significantly to this mentality. As such she spends a great deal of time on her own t
Hobbies: Mrs Fernandez watches a great deal of TV, however this serves mainly to pass time. She greatly enjoys spending time with her eight grandchildren however they are usually busy with other activities. Until a few years ago, Daphne took great pleasure I cooking and gardening but her poor health and mobility make this task very difficult. She also used to
Behaviour: Mrs Fernandez is a ‘difficult’ and confrontational lady who consistently craves attention from her family. We can speculate that this can be attributed to an absence of productive or enjoyable activities to occupy her time. Her typical week day is spent watching TV on her own while her son is working. In the evenings she may spend some time with her grandchildren if they are available or simply watch more TV. She has little or no interest in reading or socialising during this time. At the weekends she will spend time with family and attend church.
Health Condition: Mrs Fernandes is generally in poor health which keeps her housebound. She finds it very difficult to even climb the stairs in her house or even walk.
A Day in her Life: May’s routine has become highly repetitive since the deterioration of her health. She wakes at 9am, dresses and bathes upstairs then goes downstairs with much difficulty. She will eat her breakfast, usually consisting of porridge then plan her day based on her TV guide. Occasionally she has an afternoon nap after her favourite TV shows. At some point she will eat her lunch which will normally consist of leftovers or a very simple sandwich that she can make herself. If she has the energy, may will attempt to do some work around the house such as cooking or cleaning but this is not always possible. In the evenings she will eat dinner that her son usually prepares after work and her other family may visit for an hour or two. May retires to bed around 9pm.
Age: 81 years old
Occupation: Housewife
Marital Status: Widowed
Children: Two Sons, Two Daughters
Mrs Fernandes is a British Indian born in Kenya. She and her family moved to England in 1968
shortly following Kenya’s independence. She now resides with her 50 year old son, a professional accountant in London who himself suffers from muscular dystrophy. May can read and write English but does not have a strong grasp of the language. Her formal education ended at age 15 when she married her late husband and started a family. For the past eight years, she has suffered from particularly poor health, with much of her time spent in and out of hospital. Because of her ill health she is unable to care for herself however she refuses to move to a care home. Due to a number of factors she is highly suspicious of strangers almost to the point of paranoia. She does not enjoy socialising very much although loneliness is not a concern. Her deportation from kenya and medication may contribute significantly to this mentality. As such she spends a great deal of time on her own tHobbies: Mrs Fernandez watches a great deal of TV, however this serves mainly to pass time. She greatly enjoys spending time with her eight grandchildren however they are usually busy with other activities. Until a few years ago, Daphne took great pleasure I cooking and gardening but her poor health and mobility make this task very difficult. She also used to
Behaviour: Mrs Fernandez is a ‘difficult’ and confrontational lady who consistently craves attention from her family. We can speculate that this can be attributed to an absence of productive or enjoyable activities to occupy her time. Her typical week day is spent watching TV on her own while her son is working. In the evenings she may spend some time with her grandchildren if they are available or simply watch more TV. She has little or no interest in reading or socialising during this time. At the weekends she will spend time with family and attend church.
Health Condition: Mrs Fernandes is generally in poor health which keeps her housebound. She finds it very difficult to even climb the stairs in her house or even walk.
A Day in her Life: May’s routine has become highly repetitive since the deterioration of her health. She wakes at 9am, dresses and bathes upstairs then goes downstairs with much difficulty. She will eat her breakfast, usually consisting of porridge then plan her day based on her TV guide. Occasionally she has an afternoon nap after her favourite TV shows. At some point she will eat her lunch which will normally consist of leftovers or a very simple sandwich that she can make herself. If she has the energy, may will attempt to do some work around the house such as cooking or cleaning but this is not always possible. In the evenings she will eat dinner that her son usually prepares after work and her other family may visit for an hour or two. May retires to bed around 9pm.
Sunday, 11 February 2007
Personas: Mrs. Kathrin Tomson
Name: Mrs Kathrin Tomson
Age: 75 years old
Occupation: Retired School Nurse
Marital Status: Married
Husband: Mr. James Tomson, aged 83 years old
Children: One, Frank 47 years old
Grandchildren: 2
Mrs. Kathrin Tomson lives in an apartment at Birmingham. She was born in Birmingham, and although she traveled a lot, and lived in France for 15 years, she is permanently staying in Birmingham for the past 21 years. She is happily married to James for 49 years now. She has a 47 year old son, named Frank, who he now lives in France, with his wife and his two daughters. She had been working as a school nurse for 40 years, and through her work she learned to appreciate the value of healthy living. Golf was her main accomplishment and she enjoyed tournaments.
Hobbies: Mrs. Kathrin is very fond of pets and especially her dog Ktoris. She likes to take her beloved dog out for a walk in the park in the mornings and spends there relaxing moments. She is lucky enough for the building she is living to have a small hidden garden, which she alone takes care, since no other resident is interested in doing so.
Patterns of Behavior: Mrs. Kathrin is a very kind and peaceful person due to the many years she had to work as a school nurse. Her work gave her patience to overcome the difficulties of life. Also, being a golf player, she learned to have persistence and to keep herself in a program. She was always proud of managing to be good at her work, keeping the household in perfect condition and still have time for herself. She was always a friendly person and she enjoys having friends over. As said, she values healthy living and so she tries to have healthy habits. She would like to start Latin dance lessons, but unfortunately her body is too weak for such excitement. However, she finds pleasure in simple things, such as taking care of her flowers and walking her dog. She does not like new and innovating products, because they tend to be too complicated. She prefers simple products, that are easy to be used and efficient.
Health Condition: She had a hip replacement in 1997 and arthritis followed. Although she was forced to stay home for quite some time, she has manage to overcome the situation and still remains active, as far as she is able to.
A day in her life: Mrs. Kathrin always wakes up when the first light of day breaks through the window. She sets off to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for her husband and herself. She finds it very important to keep a balanced diet, so she avoids high in fat nutrition. She usually drinks milk with added calcium or fresh juice if she feels like using the juicer. She always says to her husband "coffee for a man at your age is no good", and they both nod their heads.
Mrs. Kathrin will then start cleaning the house, but not as fast as she used to when she was young. She will then take her dog for a long walk at the park nearby, where she will find some relaxing moments for herself. When she returns home she will prepare lunch, and sit down with Mr. James to eat. Afterwards, she will go down to the garden. She takes care of her roses and waters the apple trees. Usually, by this time her neighbor, Mary, will call her to sit in the kitchen for some friendly chating. She will then go to join her husband who is already watching television. They will discuss their news of the day and wonder what their son and his family are doing. After a couple of hours they will both turn off the television and go to sleep to wake up for a new day.
Saturday, 10 February 2007
Personas: Mr Harris Yiakoumis
Name: Mr Harris Yiakoumi
Age: 62 years old
Occupation: Retired Policeman
Occupation: Retired Policeman
Marital Status: Married
Wife: Mrs Eleni Yiakoumi
Wife: Mrs Eleni Yiakoumi
Children: None
Mr. Harris Yiakoumis is a first generation immigrant from
Hobbies: Mr. Yiakoumis spends most of his time fishing which is his favourite sport. Furthermore he enjoys watching television mostly programs concerning various fishing techniques. Finally Mr Yiakoumis wants to keep his body in a good condition therefore mostly on weekdays he spends more than two hours for walking.
Patterns of behavior: Mr. Yiakoumis is stubborn and independent man, characteristics which he inherited from his years in the police department. Being a policeman for 35 years he has been into situations were his mental and physical abilities had to be tested, therefore he relies on the his abilities to overcome the difficulties that he now has in life. Nowadays that he is retired he has more time to spend for enhancing his knowledge on modern technology but being in his age and because of the simplicity of the products that he used during his early years he still prefers products that are easy to use and are also efficient.
Health Condition: As mentioned earlier Mr. Yiakoumis is an active person who likes to keep his body in a healthy condition. Unlike most of the elderly in his age he does not suffer from any health conditions but he suffers from a wound that he carries from a difficult night at the line of work. Even though he is still very active for a person in his age.
A day in his life: Mr. Yiakoumis wakes up at around
He then gets his fishing gear and heads to the lake where he spends the rest of his morning. At mid-day he returns to the cottage with his catch (if there is any) and he makes an attempt to cook it. Most of his attempts up to now are ending in a failure but stubborn as he is, he still tries to make it and cook it well.
After he and his wife have lunch they take a nap for 2 to 3 hours. After he wakes up Mr. Yiakoumis sits in front of the television and watches programs that are mostly related to fishing. Because of his latest interest in technology he also spends some time watching programs related to modern technology most of which he cannot understand due to the lack of knowledge that he has about innovative products.
Around 6 in the afternoon he goes to the coffee shop located in a village near his cottage where he spends around 2 hours with some of his latest friends who are also retired. Around 8 in the evening he returns to the cottage where he finds his dinner ready by his wife Eleni. After they finish their dinner they spend some time in front of the television mostly watching some soap opera during which Mr. Yiakomis falls asleep.
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