miwa CONNIE TRAN
Industrial Design Senior Thesis Larry Fenske & Bill Green with advisor Akshay Sharma Virginia Tech Industrial Design, May 2012
Table of Contents 5 INTRODUCTION
5 8 7 10 11 12 13
Premise of Project The Environment The Community The Individual The Need The Want Summary
15 RESEARCH 16 22 28 30
Photoethnography Interviews and Surveys Ergonomics & Comfort Psychology of Relaxation and Music 31 The Psychology of Space 32 Sound Logistics 33 Sound Systems
35 INSPIRATION 36 38 40 44 46 48
Meditation and Yoga Passionate Spaces Influences of Nature Trend Studies - Electric Trend Studies - Exterior Trend Studies - Interior
51 OBJECTIVE FOCUS 53 Relaxation & Comfort 54 Musical Experience 54 A Passionate Space
59 IDEATION
60 Exterior Sketches 66 Interior Sketches 68 General Design Language
73 FEATURES
74 78 80 81 84 86 88 90 92 94 96 98 100
Overview Compact size Unique Storage Solar Panel Backing Organic, Hinting Forms Relaxation Adjustability Modified Bucket-seating Sound and Music Lights and Light Shows Smart Windows Interface User Profiles “Beautiful Harmony”
Introduction Premise of Project In 2007, APT for the user, the community, and the environment was developed by 5 Virginia Tech students: David Chapaitis, Howard Chen, Sean Denham, Patrick Healy, and Johnathan Mills. APT’s project purpose: “The Autonomous Personal Transportation (APT) system offers a way of rethinking the urban commuting experience. APT is a system of shared, computer-controlled, single-occupant electric, weather-proof vehicles that serve the student population by providing readily available, ecologically-conscious transportation for those living within a 10-mile radius of campus. Due to the shared usage of the system, the total number of vehicles on the road can be reduced significantly, easing stress on local roads and allowing parking lots to be developed more usefully. APT addresses the commuting problem at the Individual, the University, and the Community level.” They: • Analyzed the need for a revolutionized public transportation system • Focused on the feasibility of an autonomous car system • Developed a public transportation system that focused on single-occupancy autonomous cars that picked up and dropped off patrons via text message request and kiosks that have been strategically placed around campus.
The 2007 apt team focused on the logistics of an autonomous, single-occupancy, electric hub vehicle system for the Virginia Tech campus.
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focuses the emotional, unique experience that can be provided by the actual vehicle’s design.
miwa Section One: Introduction
Introduction The Environment With the green movement and issues of sustainability more apparent than ever, it’s the perfect time to change the way we move around in the United States. Despite travelling the same distances everyday as other cities around the world, the average United States urban dweller uses 24 times more energy annually for private transport than a Chinese urban resident and almost four times as much as a European urban dweller.2
Chinese cities Low Income Asian cities African cities Latin America cities Middle Eastern cities Eastern European cities High Income Asian cities Western European cities Canadian cities Australia/NZ cities USA cities 0
1,000
2,000
3,000
4,000
5,000
Passenger transport CO2 emissions (kg/person/year) - Cities only
People affect the environment. As gas prices rise, people are becoming more aware of their energy usage and their ecological footprints. Even though most Americans (88%) believe that global warming is a threat to future generations, America remains one of the biggest emitter of CO2, second only to China.2 The average commuter burns 340 gallons a year, creating a 3.4 ton cloud of CO2. The United States consumes 378 million gallons of gasoline every single day.3 Although public transportation systems have been combating this environmental issue, many people still choose to travel via car alone, effectively only using 25% of available space.1 Urban buses during peak periods have the best energy and green-house-gas performance, but are the worst performers during non-peaks, when they operate with very low passenger loads.4 The solution to this environmental issue is to encourage many more people to use a publicly-shared system of transportation and to prevent the system from suffering even during non-peak times. 1. 2. 3. 4.
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The APT Project Murdoch University - http://cst.uwinnipeg.ca/documents/Transport_Greenhouse.pdf Energy Information Administration (EIA) Reason.org - http://reason.org/blog/printer/what-are-the-greenest-transpor
miwa | Introduction | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Introduction The Community
Dangers As the number of drivers on the road increases, as does the number of accidents. Every year, motor vehicles kill 40,000 people; 14 on average single day.5 The need for alternative transportation grows as more and more drivers are introduced onto the road. With Virginia Tech student enrolments increasing every year, the number of commuters and the number of motor vehicle accidents is expected to rise steadily as spaces become more cramped with more pedestrians and the construction of new buildings to accommodate a growing class size. 90% of car accidents are attributed to human error.6 Whether someone is texting when they shouldn’t be, distracted, or too drowsy to sufficiently pay attention to the road, the risk of a motor accident increases significantly. Adults aged 21-29 are also more likely to be drinkers-and-drivers, with the consumption of 2.6 drinks on average before driving.7 Drinkers-and-drivers under the age of 21, however, have on average a shocking 5.1 drinks prior to driving. 7 If traffic fatalities were viewed as a social illness, people would be calling it an epidemic. New technology that contributes to safer driving is a necessity.
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PEDESTRIANS
VEHICLES
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Contrary to popular belief that driving is often faster and BICYCLES more convenient than alternative modes of transportation, PUBLIC TRANSIT the model American actually puts in 1600 hours in order to get COMMERCIAL VEHICLES/TRUCKS 7500 miles: that results in a speed that is less than 5 miles per hour TA X I S (4.68 mph) 8, making it the least efficient mode of transportation in HIGH terms of energy consumption, and arguably, time. Steps should be taken O C C U PA N C Y VEHICLES to derail this popular belief and to move individuals toward the higher end SINGLE of the triangle to the right. O C C U PA N C Y
Effi
Logistics
Universal Design In order to truly affect an entire community, a transportation system that gives advantage to members outside of the college demographic should also be considered. As a universal design, a revolutionized public transportation vehicle could bring individuality back to the elderly who have lost their ability to drive, as well as shuttle patients to doctors and hospitals or safely escort children to school. As with all good designs, the end solution should be universal. 5. Thunderhead Alliance 6. Drive for Life 7. National Survey of Drinking and Driving - http://ntl.bts.gov/lib/26000/26000/26009/DOT-HS-809-190.pdf 8. Bikeroute.com - http://www.bikeroute.com/EnvironmentalFacts.php
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Introduction The Individual
Psychological Commuting frequently is also psychologically damaging, with longer commuters facing about 40% higher divorce rates than their peers. 9 Many commuters also complain of back and neck pain, due to the movement-restrictive nature of driving. Commuting through backed-up traffic is also stressful, resulting in road-rage as well as arriving late to class. The hassles of parking merely add onto the commuting nightmare, with other obstacles such as pedestrians, pedestrian cross walks, traffic signs, and traffic meters adding onto the stress and time consumption.
Financial Parking passes and parking tickets further frustrate drivers, but the illusion of convenience keeps the drivers paying into these systems, further raising the cost of their motor operation. The average cost for operating a vehicle while enrolled in college is actually more than an average 4-year tuition at Virginia Tech ($29,600 vs. $31,500). Maintenance, insurance, car payments, and fuel can cost the college student $650 per month: this does not include parking passes and traffic tickets.10 According to Virginia Tech parking services, students and faculty spend approximately $1,484,378 alone in parking permit sales11, and an additional $391,376 in subsequent parking tickets as reported by the original APT group. 1 There are currently over 16,200 parking spots available on the Virginia Tech campus, and yet, commuters still voice frustration over the lack of parking spaces. When asked about why driving themselves to campus is the preferred mode of transportation, most individuals say it is out of convenience. They enjoyed the fact that their car was always on their schedule and was always there when they needed to travel. Privacy was also very important to the individual, with most public transportation readily stripping them of this commodity. Cleanliness was of the third highest response among those interviewed and surveyed.
9. Healthland.time.com - http://healthland.time.com/2011/06/07/qa-why-commuting-sucks-the-life-out-of-you/#ixzz1kK7CFBHa 10. Flexcar.com 11. Virginia Tech Parking Services
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Introduction The Need
Sustainability The need to conserve energy and our environment for future generations is a pressing matter. Individuals should learn to adapt to a life-style that meets their needs without compromising the needs of future generations. This thesis will provide incentive for individuals to strive to preserve the environment by appealing to user emotions and by providing a unique rider experience that is highly desirable and unmatched; therefore keeping users coming back for more. If the experience is enjoyable enough, then wide-spread use of the system via word-of-mouth is anticipated. Designing an experience that intrigues and excites the individual is the key to positively impacting the community, and the environment.
Relaxation In the busy world of a college student, finding some time to relax and reevaluate ideas, thoughts, and emotions is indispensable. There is a strong link between academic success and relaxation. Studies suggest that relaxation can change the physiological states of the body, resulting in a brain that works more efficiently in reading, writing, math, and scientific understanding.11 When coupled with music, the relaxation setting is increased. Research has found that when people listen to music, they allow their bodies to sync with the rhythms of music, lowering heart beat, brain waves, and blood pressure, effectively placing the individual in a relaxed state of mind.11 With so many students stressing about academic performance, a ride that relaxes the body and rejuvenates the mind could be just what individuals need.
11. Questia.com - http://www.questia.com/googleScholar.qst?docId=5002100551
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Introduction The Want
Convenience Students want the convenience of a transportation alternative that is on their schedule without the added frustrations of having to deal with being stuck in traffic, pedestrians running out in front of cars, having to spend money on parking passes, being blind-sided by parking tickets, and having to locate parking everyday before and after class. Currently the only alternatives to single-occupancy driving (which is the preferred method of transportation) include motorcycles, scooters, mopeds, bicycles, as well as travel on foot. These modes of transportation, however, suffer from lack of security and all-weather protection.
Unfavorable Alternatives The Blacksburg Transit is another alternative to single-occupant driving. Many commuters utilize this service, but many also do not. How can we change the minds of those who do not use the public transportation system? When interviewed, many students expressed similar concerns and dislikes about the bus system: 1) During peak riding hours, riders are crammed together, greatly reducing comfort, privacy, and adding to stress, and creating uncomfortable situations for everyone involved. 2) The Blacksburg Transit forces riders to conform to its schedule, route plans, and pick-up and drop-off locations. 3) The cleanliness of the bus, especially when it has been raining, makes the riding experience less pleasant. 4) There is no sense of ownership.
Ownership A sense of ownership is very important to an individual. People are more likely to interact with something if they feel that they have contributed to its existence.12 Possession and ownership greatly influences human attitudes, motivation, and behavior. Research shows that when individuals feel that they possess an entity that individuals feel more positively toward the entity. The psychology of possession also states that feelings of ownership cause people to view possessions as part of the extended self, creating a reliable channel toward changing one’s behavior (in this case, making people more “green� and creating a lasting, positive impact after the use of the APT system and Miwa). Research also shows that possessions and feelings of ownership trigger senses of responsibility for the entity, which is very useful when it comes to the general upkeep and maintenance of the Miwa vehicle.
12. Journal of Organizational Behavior - http://www.linnvandyne.com/papers/JOB%202004%20Van%20Dyne%20Pierce%20Psychological%20Ownership.pdf
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miwa | Introduction | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Introduction Summary Summary In summary, the end solution should affect the environment positively by reducing the carbon footprint of commuters, as well as address concerns related to sustainability: individuals should adapt to life-styles that meet their needs without compromising the needs of future generations. The end solution should also greatly deter common driving dangers, such as stressed or drowsy driving as well as drunk-driving and pedestrian-related motor-vehicle accidents. APT’s solution of an autonomous vehicle already drastically reduces these risks; however, issues still lie in getting the users to participate in the system in the first place, as well as how to keep them coming back. The logistics of the system should also be addressed in the sense that the solution should be ergonomic and functional as well as be intuitive to the user. Universal design is also addressed in this manner: children, the elderly, the disabled, and any medical patients should be able to intuitively interact with the key functional aspects of the system. Since many commuters face stress on the road, psychological factors of the travel experience should not be ignored. This involves giving the user a positive commuting experience, which has primarily been unattainable by automotive designs due to the lack of accessibility to autonomous technology. If users commit to using the APT system, financially individuals will be better off. Users will no longer have to pay high gas prices, car payments, put any money toward the maintenance of their car, be blind-sided by tickets or have to buy parking passes. This is partly tied to sustainability in the sense that more emphasis on services over products means that less eventual waste is produced and disposed into landfills. Relaxation is one of the main focuses of the solution. A space of serenity or of passion is up to the user’s discretion. With commuters often being so busy, the time they would have to relax is a huge incentive in using the APT system. Convenience is also tied into this incentive. There currently exists workable solutions to many of the above issues, but in the end, they are unfavorable alternatives. Current solutions such as bus systems or car-sharing simply does not offer the target audiences enough incentive to change their default behavior. The lack of ownership is also a large reason why many users don’t commit to using these unfavorable alternatives.
The goal of
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is to offer incentive to the potential rider.
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miwa Section Two: Research
Research Photoethnography This study was meant to ascertain how college students on the Virginia Tech campus interacted with the public transportation system, personal transportation, and with other students while commuting to class. Commons trends were also taken note of. There was particular focus in documenting students in their natural states while travelling to class, looking to find some greater insight into the current situation and user habits. The results were also used to create a targeted survey. A preliminary set of questions was written up before actual photoethnography took place.
Questions to Address
1) How do people interact with each other from the entire process of public transportation? a. Waiting for the bus b. While riding the bus (Where do they choose to sit? How do they choose to sit?) c. Exiting the bus d. General display of emotion 2) What kinds of devices are used when people are waiting to reach their destination? a. iPhones, iPads, ereaders, watches, laptops, etc…? b. What are they doing with these devices? Listening to music, checking the weather, doing their homework? 3) What seems to be the current fashion trends in style of dress and material choices? a. Color trends b. Material trends c. Size trends d. Device trends e. Device CASE trends f. Interface trends g. Clothes, shoes, other attire and accessories? 4) How many items are people carrying with them to classes? a. What kinds of items? Laptops, purses, poster boards, etc… b. How big are these items? c. Where to do people put these items when they’re driving their own car or riding the bus? Why do they put them there? 5) How do people act when they’re stuck in traffic? a. What are they doing inside their cars while they idle in traffic? b. How many people are inside of any given car that is commuting to or from class? c. What kinds of devices do they interact with while sitting in traffic alone? 6) What seems to be the current fashion trends in the style of dress and material choices for people who use personal transportation? a. Are they dressed differently from people who use public transportation?
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Research Photoethnography
Interview Questions: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8)
How do you get to class? Why do you choose that mode of transportation? How much time do you feel like you spend getting from point A to point B? What are the pros and cons of your choice of transportation? If you drive or take the bus to class, what do you do while sitting idly in traffic or while waiting for and riding the bus? Do you feel like you could be using your time more efficiently? If so, what would you rather be doing if you didn’t have to spend time getting to class? What do you think Virginia Tech can do to improve the commuter situation?
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Research Photoethnography Messy study spaces: Do people bring that to their choice of transport? How much of it do they take with them?
A lot of communication: How important is it while commuting? Can it be facilitated for the vehicle?
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Research Photoethnography Eating: How important is it that people be able to eat during the commute? Will this cause problems for the APT maintenance team?
Crowded space: Would the individual be able to work better if she were in a wider and more open space?
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Research Photoethnography
Outside Observations 1. People who are a part of groups or crowds seemed to enjoy travelling to class more than those who were alone. 2. Individuals who had a lot of items to carry frequently looked the most frustrated and moved more slowly than those who had only a few items. 3. There were pedestrians constantly in the streets; frequently, many did not cross the street on crosswalks. 4. Drivers were clearly frustrated with the congestion. 5. Many individuals (especially those not travelling within groups) were on the phone, text messaging, or otherwise very focused on their mobile devices. 20
miwa | Research | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Research Photoethnography Getting away from the crowded, busy environment.
Outside Observations 6. People waiting for the bus most often times don’t know when their bus is going to show up, so they stand up Immediately to look when any bus rounds the corner (anxious behavior). 7. Parking lots are full as far as the eye can see during the school day. 8. Some students enjoyed using the architecture space as spaces of relaxation. 9. The students who appeared less stress or frustrated were those who sat/lay outside. 10. Individuals who got away from the crowd appeared most calm.
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Research Interviews and Surveys 70 Participants of an Online Survey A survey was conducted to analyze the behavior and habits of individuals who commute using survey. vt.edu. First a demographic break-down is reported, followed by a series of “select-all-that-apply” questions to aid in the design research.
27% Workers
64% Students WHO ARE YOU?
A good number of collegeaged students responded (82%, ages 18-25).
10% Other
43% 22-25
6% 14-17
13% 26+
WHAT’S YOUR AGE GROUP?
39% 18-21
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miwa | Research | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Research Interviews and Surveys What is your current preferred mode of transportation? “I Usually go by Car” 80% of survey participants stated that their preferred mode of transportation was by car. This is not a surprising finding. Walking was second to car (16%), surprisingly higher than going by bus (11%). The use of the bus system is concerningly low.
Car (60%) Bus (11%) Bike (6%) Walking (16%) Train (1%) Subway (3%) Other (1%) 0
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Number of Responders
What determines your current mode of transportation?
Convenience 89% of commuters say that convenience is what primarily determines their mode of transportation. The price/cost of the transportation was the second most selected factor, although there may have been some confusion about this answer choice--this choice should likely be disregarded.
Convenience (89%) Cleanliness (16%) Privacy (21%) Sustainability (17%) Exercise (6%)
Privacy and cleanliness were also of upmost importance for commuters. When coupled with the results above, it’s not surprising that so many people opt out of riding the bus.
Price/Cost (26%) Other (6%) 0
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Number of Responders
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Research Interviews and Surveys What do they want to be doing? What would you be doing in a single-occupancy, private car on your way to your destination? Working (30%)
Relaxing Sleeping
Relaxing (53%) Sleeping (54%) Reading (39%)
Listening to music
Listening to music (74%) Writing (14%) Drawing/Sketching (17%)
Messing with their phone
Messing with phone (60%) Messing with laptop (49%) Other (10%) 0
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Number of Responders
“I want to Relax, Listen to Music, and Mess with my Phone� Listening to music was selected as the activity of choice in an autonomous (74%), private vehicle. Messing with their phone (could be either browsing the internet, reading the news, checking the weather, chatting with friends, etc...) was second (60%), while sleeping took third place in responses (54%). Relaxing was also high in response (53%). The options that received the least amount of selections were writing (14%), drawing/sketching (17%), and working (28%), indicating that during a commute, a user is far more interested in taking time for themselves.
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miwa | Research | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Research Interviews and Surveys
What would you be doing in this car on your way home? Working (14%)
Relaxing Sleeping
Relaxing (76%) Sleeping (57%) Reading (36%)
Listening to music
Listening to music (73%) Writing (9%) Drawing/Sketching (16%) Messing with phone (47%) Messing with laptop (37%) Other (7%) 0
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Number of Responders
“I want to Relax, Listen to Music, and Sleep” When it’s time for the drive home, relaxing shoots up to number one, closely followed by listening to music. Sleeping then becomes the third most selected response, and messing with phones drops down to 47%. This research suggests that people are most looking for a solution in commuting that would allow them to relax, sleep, and listen to music; using the time and space to unwind.
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Research Interviews and Surveys
3 out of 4 participants agree:
“We want to relax and listen to music.�
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miwa | Research | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Research Interviews and Surveys
Interested in an Autonomous Car?
58 (81%) - Yes!
11 (16%) - Maybe
1 (1%) - No
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Research Ergonomics and Comfort
Rethinking Sitting Peter Opsvik’s Rethinking Sitting proved invaluable to the research of this project. In his book, Opsvik invites designers to consider factors to comfortable seating beyond conventional concerns. He suggests that the human body follows certain rhythms, oscillations and impulses. Comfortable design is adaptable to these natural rhythms and oscillations. The design should also support a wide-range of postures, as people are naturally and constantly changing to and from different positions; it is not comfortable to be stuck in any position, even if that position were previously very comfortable.
“Having held any posture for a while, the best posture is always the next one.” 28
miwa | Research | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Research Ergonomics and Comfort Addressing the Impulses we Receive How we sit when we’re alone is vastly different from how we sit when we are around others, especially in more formal situations. We are better at listening to our bodies when we realize that we will not be judged by our postures; therefore, how comfortable we are when we’re seated is more than the matter of how the seat follows the curves of the posterior, but how well the seat allows someone to listen to their natural impulses and follow biological rhythms. The path to comfortable seating isn’t through shape design alone, it is through pleasing the mind.
Rightfully Questioning the Conventional Standards of Seating Many people are surprised to discover that the traditional 90° angled seating isn’t what’s best for the posture or for the back. Conventional seating often restricts movements, forcing people to only be able to cycle through a handful of positions within rules of etiquette. The problem is seen in car interior seating, bus seating, classroom chairs, office desks, and a myriad other places. With so many obstacles individuals must face to listen to the rhythms, oscillations, and impulses of their bodies in everyday society, Miwa needs to break away from this uncomfortable standard. The challenge is to take a man-made, static, inorganic product and have it flow in use, seamlessly, by an organic being. The open-body pose is one of the most comfortable poses for the human body. This pose emphasizes balance by the user, giving the user a feeling of control and a sense of equilibrium. When a user is balanced physically and mentally, the user experiences positive feelings.
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Research The Psychology of Relaxation and Music
Relaxation and Music are Good for the Body and Mind Research has shown that a relaxed mental state is the key to improved writing, math, and scientific understanding. Relaxation improves attention as well as memory. By allowing individuals to relax during their commute, right before their classes, those individuals are able to learn and retain more material than those who had just suffered from stressful commutes. Stress leads to raised blood pressures, increased heart rates, and rapid breathing. Over time, these reactions raise cholesterol levels, disturb intestinal activities as well as suppress immune systems, making an individual more susceptible to illness. Studies have shown that relaxation techniques can even help reduce the perception of pain.13 Deep breathing and visualization has also been shown to increase the immune response in certain medical patients.13 With bodies tied so closely to relaxation, the psychology of relaxation is an untapped reservoir of design opportunities. The link between relaxation and music is relatively well-known, from both personal experience of others and from research and studies. The rhythms of bodies tend to sync with music, and music has a strong affect an a person’s mood. Studies have shown that when there is music playing in the background during a classroom exam, the students taking the exam were significantly calmer than students in a similar situation without background music.13 Students who had received background music during their exam were able to score significantly higher than their no-music counterparts. In order to create a design that pleases both the body and the mind, the final design of Miwa should allow the user to change positions freely, giving the individual the opportunity to follow his or her natural bodily impulses, rhythms, and oscillations.
13. http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/relaxation-techniques-000359.htm
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Research The Psychology of Space
Spaces and Personal Identity Spaces can carry meaning within them. Frequently, a person’s behavior may shape the meaning of a space as well as allow a sense of space to be tied with a person’s sense of self. The identity of a location can be shaped by the stories of users who interact with it, effectively creating a communal story that becomes intertwined with the space. Shared spaces are more difficult to deal with as most people prefer having their own space; however, shared spaces do offer one feature that non-shared spaces can’t: they allow an individual to feel connected to others, resulting in a feeling of belonging. The APT system is capable of being a vessel of these positive emotions through its shared program. The interior space simply needs to be redesigned to echo the feelings of others without taking away the immediate user’s sense of self.
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Research Sound Logistics
Speaker placement of a conventional vehicle.
Tackling the Impersonalized Sound System of Conventional Vehicles The image above depicts a conventional sound system, with conventional placements of speakers (subwoofers, woofers, midranges, and tweeters). The standard frequencies ranging from 0Hz to 2.5KHz are covered. The standard 4-door car, that commuters most often use, tries its hardest to give all passengers acceptable sound output regardless of where they’re seated in the vehicle. In trying to please all passengers, completely optimal sound is available to none. The driver only receives direct output from the left-side door speakers, the shot-gun rider receives direct output only from the right-side door speakers, and similar situations are happening in the back seats. The rest of the sound that reaches the driver or passengers are residual sounds coming from the direct speakers of other passengers. For optimal listening, speakers should be co-axis to the listener with placement of the speakers at or above ear level. With conventional cars , the immediate problem is clear: Each person only receives co-axis output from one set of speakers, and those speakers are not at or above ear level due to manufacturing restrictions of the vehicle itself.
The APT system coupled with the Miwa vehicle have a large design opportunity here: because of the singleoccupancy nature of the final vehicle design, optimal sound can be attained for the end user.
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miwa | Research | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Research Sound Systems
Forming a Potential Alliance with the Top Vehicular Sound Specialists Bang & Olufsen’s alliance with Audi in sound research makes them the pioneers of vehicular sound system technology. Their design language and brand identity is naturally compatible, and they have spent over 400 hours perfecting car sound systems, bringing users the most out of their vehicle. APT and Miwa would benefit from Bang & Olufsen and Audi’s research. Inspiration from the two companies also branch further than their sound systems and include aesthetics, user comfort, and brand identity. Subtle designs within the interior of the car that hint at its potential for sound is an alluring design factor, and will be used extensively throughout the ideation process for Miwa.
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miwa Section Three: Inspiration
Inspiration Meditation and Yoga
Relaxing as Meditation Meditation has been shown to reduce stress by teaching individuals to switch off from the concerns of everyday life. It offers an opportunity to spend more time with ourselves. In fact, it is the ultimate form of “taking time out for yourself,� which, according to survey results, is very attractive to workers and students of all ages who commute. The link between the mind and physical health is well-explored. Individuals who meditate have far lower levels of stress and anxiety than their non-meditating counterparts. Those who meditate also greatly lower their chances of having heart diseases in the future. Meditation has also been known to increase an individual’s concentration, allow people to tap into their creativity, as well as achieve inner happiness and peace of mind. Pickthebrain.com states that spending just 15 minutes in quiet reflection makes us more relaxed and effective decision-makers. This is of particular interest to the APT system, as the commute to class will typically take about 15 minutes or so; this time that users have to themselves can be effectively used by performing meditating activities.
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miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Inspiration Meditation and Yoga
As Bodily Freeing as Yoga Yoga, similar to meditation, allows people to strengthen the connection between the mind and the body. It improves memory, concentration, learning efficiency, mood, self-actualization tendencies, social skills, and decreases hostility. It also helps improve posture, endurance, strength, balance, and energy level.14 Yoga relaxes the body and the mind by giving the user ultimate control over its facilities. Research suggests that yoga offers a boost in oxytocins. Oxytocins are sometimes called the “trust” and “bonding” hormone--hormones that are associate with feeling more connected to others.14 Miwa would not be able to accommodate certain extreme positions of yoga within the confines of its interior, but it should offer users a much wider range of movement than conventional private cars.
14. WebMD - http://www.webmd.com/balance/the-health-benefits-of-yoga?page=3
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Inspiration Passionate Spaces Cultural dancing immerses participants into the activity by creating a passionate dance space.
“Raves� and dance clubs offer people outlets for bodily expression through dance and music. 38
miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Inspiration Passionate Spaces Passion in activities occur when people are able to become one with their bodies.
Extraordinary feats can be accomplished in a space that widely encourages exploration.
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Inspiration Influences of Nature
Musical Seashells as the Greatest Form Inspiration They say when you hold a seashell up to your ear that you can hear the ocean. The cross-section of such a shell is as inspirational as the natural sounds that are perceived from within its interior. The outside of a shell hints at its organic, musical insides--prime inspiration for Miwa’s design. The spiral interior of shells vary in color scheme, something that Miwa seeks to emulate with colorful, interior lights, suiting each individual who rides the car. Although the structure of the shell is the same, the inside can be varied. Miwa seeks to carry this design aesthetic into the forms of the final vehicle.
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miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Inspiration Influences of Nature
When people think of music, they think of flowing, harmonious sounds and forms that come together to create a more meaningful whole. miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012 41
Inspiration Influences of Nature
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miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Inspiration Influences of Nature
The Harmonies in Nature With so many structures being built left and right, people are being more and more cramped together as cities grow. When the stress and frustrations that come with city-life are too much, people are drawn back toward nature. Whether it’s taking a laptop and some notes and lying on the grass while working or deciding to take the day off for some hiking, people will always find solace in the peace and quiet of deep nature. A public transportation system built within the confines of a city is an unlikely source of similar peace, quiet, and solitude. The challenge of Miwa is to bring a bit of nature back into the city-life, as people still yearn to feel this type of relaxation while immersed within the city. This unique experience will provide incentive for riders to use the APT system as well as keep them coming back for more.
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Inspiration Trend Studies - Electric Cars Very rounded, smooth, shapes that are atypical of most cars found on today’s roads.
The design of many electric cars bring a lot of attention to themselves and to the user, which is potentially good or bad. 44
miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Inspiration Trend Studies - Electric Cars
Shapes that are, at times, too eccentric.
A 3-wheel configuration is arguable less efficient than the conventional 4-wheeled configuration.
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Inspiration Trend Studies - Exterior Concept street cars follow sleek, aerodynamic forms.
Many concept vehicles have narrow headlights. 46
miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Inspiration Trend Studies - Exterior
An open-top with a wide view toward the sky make it seem as if the user weren’t confined.
Vehicles with “faces” that make them seem more human cause people to be more easily frustrated with the object, but also love it more. miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012 47
Inspiration Trend Studies - Interior “Meltingly� sleek interiors invite touch and interaction.
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miwa | Inspiration | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
People are naturally intrigued by organic forms that are capable of change and being manipulated by the user.
Inspiration Trend Studies - Interior Lights offer more ability to customize the riding experience.
A truly unique interior stirs excitement and is the ultimate invitation to a user.
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miwa Section Four: Objective Focus
To design unique seating for both the body and mind.
Objective Focus Relaxation & Comfort Movement As discussed in the research section of Relaxation & Comfort, Peter Opsvik advises that seating that allows the body to follow its natural rhythms, oscillations, and impulses of the mind is truly the most comfortable seating. Miwa will provide a completely open frontal space and seat adjustability that allows users to put their feet up or even cross their legs. They will be able to stretch out their arms out, read, eat, text, or sleep.
Completing Form with the Body Forms that are created for the body should be completed by the body. The form does not exist without the user. Miwa’s end design will feature seating that conforms to the natural curves of the body, allowing the user to feel one with the vehicle and completely invited into the space.
miwa | Objective Focus | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Objective Focus Sound System
To redefine the listening experience of traditional transportation methods.
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miwa | Objective Focus | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Objective Focus Musical Experience
Optimal Sound for a Single User Conventional car sound systems try to please every rider in the car. In doing this, they end up unable to completely please anyone. Currently, each passenger in a traditional 4-car door allow riders to be co-axis with only one speaker, which is either to his or her right or left side. Any other output heard is attributed to the residual output of speakers from other riders. Speaker placement is also inoptimal, with speakers typically installed at the bottoms of the car doors. Miwa will feature a sound system with all speakers co-axis to the user. Speaker placement will also be at or above ear level. This will provide the user with a musical car experience that is so desirable and unmatched, that users will continue using the APT system with Miwa, effectively changing their behavior.
miwa | Objective Focus | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Objective Focus A Passionate Space
To create a passionate space of relaxation and indulgence.
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miwa | Objective Focus | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Objective Focus A Passionate Space A Private Space A space that allows individuals to truly express themselves is a place that invites creativity. When people are shielded from public scrutiny, they tend to do the things that they actually want to do, which usually leads to extreme creativity or/or relaxation.
A Space that Invites Creativity When people are immersed in music and allowed to follow the impulses of their bodies, they feel much happier and perform better academically and creatively, leading to more innovative and positive thoughts.
miwa | Objective Focus | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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miwa Section Five: Ideation
Ideation Exterior Sketches Later ideations were less influenced by electric cars, but more influenced by concept street cars.
Headlights were to be designed with a somewhat human-like quality.
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miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Ideation Exterior Sketches The back of the car retained a ‘bug-like’ quality from electric cars.
Branding and Miwa identity were ideated side-by-side with exterior sketches.
miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Ideation Exterior Sketches Initial sketching was very heavily influences by current electric cars.
Rounded, smooth forms are aerodynamic, but unrefined.
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miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Ideation Exterior Sketches A rounded, dome-type of top will allow the user to feel less confined.
A wide-open, frontal-view was conceived early in the process and carried to the end.
miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Ideation Exterior Sketches Many different types of car body “flows� were considered.
The form of the body needs to emphasize electric hub motors.
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miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Ideation Exterior Sketches The selection of the butterfly door is tied to the road-side pick-up and drop-off nature of the APT system.
Butterfly doors swing up past 90 째 for easy entrance and exit.
miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Ideation Interior Sketches Initially, traditional bucking seating was heavily explored.
Cuts into shapes seemed more organic, but made the seating seem too complex.
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miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Smooth, rounded and flowing forms were adopted from exterior sketches.
Ideation Interior Sketches A seat that would allow the body to flow with the movements of the car was considered.
The seat should not be too mechanical, as it takes away from the organic form that would be using it.
Seating that emphasized an open-body position were preferred. miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Ideation General Design Language
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miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Ideation General Design Language
By sketching with a softer blue pencil and in a looser style, the general design language was developed: musically inspired
forms that emphasized the natural rhythms, oscillations and movements of the body took precedence over endsketch quality, and more interesting forms were able to be developed. The general design language focuses on aesthetics that would be inviting to the potential user, that could be customized, but by default, acted as a blank canvas for every new rider.
miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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Ideation General Design Language
Initial Exterior Concept for 3D Rendering A photoshop painting was created as an underlay design reference for 3D rendering in the Luxology Modo modeling software. The design features an exterior that is inspired by movement and flow, and hints at the interior of the vehicle. The back features a solar panel that may collect enough energy throughout the day to power headlights, or allow users to charge their devices.
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miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Ideation General Design Language
Initial Interior Concept for 3D Rendering This photoshop rendition is much less refined than the exterior version, as it is much more whimsical in movement. A lot of the design of the final interior took place within the 3D modeling program itself, as a 3D scaled model was able to be placed within the car model for reference.
The interior features a domed-back design for an enhanced musical experience. miwa | Ideation | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
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miwa Section Six: Features
Features Overview
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Musically inspired interior
Front storage
Colorfully lit and customizable interior
Electric hub motors
Butterfly doors
Battery-pack housing
miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Adjustable opacity in windows (smart glass windows)
Features Overview
Eye-like headlights
At or above ear-level speaker positioning
Wide visibility with a 270 째 viewing angle
Rounded back car design
Solar power back panel
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Features Overview Simple dashboard display
Memory foam seating Customize with an app
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miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Organic, “peeling� dashboard form
Softer material for shoulders and neck
Broader shoulder design
Features Overview Above light-show
Durable, clean, and easy to maintenance materials
Adjustable lower-body support Modified “bucket-seating”
Organic, “growing” form that extends from the user
Adjustable upper-body and headrest support
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Features Compact Size
8.5 ft. 13.5 ft.
63% the length of an average compact car. 78
miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Miwa takes up less space on the road with no need to park.
Features Compact Size
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Features Unique Storage
Back Solar Panel Design At the end of the route, Miwa will not leave the passenger if it detects that there are still items being held within storage.
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miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Features Solar Panel Backing
Back Solar Panel Design Because the car is autonomous, the user does not need to see out the back of the car. As Miwa is used throughout the day, it may collect enough sunlight to power head lights, tail lights, or charge a user’s devices.
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Features Organic, Hinting Forms
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miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Features Organic, Hinting Forms
An Organic Car This organic-looking car is the transportation solution to stressed commuters at campus universities everywhere. The outside form is unique, but not so eccentric that it draws too much attention to itself. The look of the exterior invites curiosity--the hope is that individuals who see it will be intrigued enough to try it out on their own.
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Features Musical Forms
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miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Features Musical Forms
An Unanticipated Musical, Passionate Space As riders open the door, an unusually free-flowing, musical interior is revealed--a happy surprise. The musical forms further hint at its musical capacity, which involves a domed-back design that enhances music to its fullest extent. As the user lies on the soft, body forming seat, their view is completely open to the scenery ahead with a 270째 viewing angle.
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Features Relaxation Adjustability
Follow the Whims of Your Body and Relax Miwa offers seating that fits your body and mind. The design of the open-body seat is composed of two parts: the upper part and the lower part, which can be further customizable to a user’s liking. The headrest is also capable of telescoping up or down, and may be tilted toward the user or pushed further back. The top part of the seat is made of memory foam so that the seat is capable of catching the smaller, more individual curves of every person’s body, leading to an ultimately personalized experience. Every time you order Miwa through the APT system, the vehicle will arrive to you with your previously set preferences. All you have to do is hop in.
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Features Modified Bucket-Seating
It’ll Keep you Safe, but also Free Bucket-seating keeps the user from sliding out of their car seat while the vehicle is in motion. Miwa’s modified bucket-seating accomplishes the same thing, but with fabric. If the user is lying down in the seat with the upper part of the seat all the way down, the fabric between the upper part and the lower part of the seat will become taut, making it much more efficient in keeping a user from sliding off. Because a user is much more stable while sitting upright, if the user has the seat in an upright position, the fabric will loosen, giving users a wider range of movements and positions.
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Features Sound and Music
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miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Features Sound and Music
Imagine if Your Ride were also a Concert Hall In virtue of being a single-occupancy vehicle, Miwa is able to offer features that conventional vehicles have not been able to. In addition to the interior’s domed-back design, Miwa features four 3-way speakers directly pointed at the listener. These speakers are also positioned at ear-level, giving users an unmmatched, optimal listening experience.
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Features Light and Light Shows
A Light Show for all of Your Senses For ultimate relaxation, indulgence, and in completing a passionate space that’s all about the current rider, Miwa offers light shows that are right above the user’s head, but also all around the car. These light shows are fully customizable, so users are able to pick any color scheme that suits their current mood. Synced with music, this light show creates an individualized, relaxing, passionate space.
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Features Smart Windows
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miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Features Smart Windows
Ease of Entry, Protection from the Sun, and Privacy With the use of smart windows, potential riders are able to interact with a basic interface built right into the glass. In order to unlock a car that has been specifically called for them, users must enter their 3-number pass code on the smart window itself. This will prevent unauthorized riders from entering the vehicle. The smart windows are also able to control its opacity, offering users a bit more privacy when desired.
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Features Interface
A Simple, yet Informative Interface with Customizability The dashboard of Miwa is simple, and it follows the rest of Miwa’s organic aesthetic. The dashboard looks as though it has been peeled apart to reveal an interface, inviting human interaction. The dashboard’s interface displays general information such as speed, distance to destination, and the user’s current carbon footprint. To control Miwa’s interior settings, a smart phone app is used, allowing the user to communicate with Miwa through bluetooth technology. If a user does not have a smart phone, they can use Miwa’s dedicated smart phone; however, the house smart phone must be returned to its dock before Miwa’s doors will unlock, preventing theft.
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Features User Profiles Personalized User Profiles The feeling of ownership is important, and it can make or break a shared system. Miwa provides ultimate individuality though customization of its interior lights, colors, and sounds via smart phone app. Miwa will create a profile for each user and save their settings.
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First you:
Then you can:
Load the app onto your smart phone and launch it.
Be greeted with your personal color scheme bar and make your changes in the simple, intuitive interface.
miwa | Features | Industrial Design Thesis 2012
Features User Profiles
Customize Your Color Scheme
Customizable Sound Output
Create your own identity color bar, and change it whenever you like--this affects the current color and lighting of Miwa’s interior.
Feel in total control with the ability to customize your listening experience.
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miwa
“beautiful harmony�
Relax and enjoy the ride.
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Image Credits Introduction Page 9, Source is unknown Page 10, http://cache.jezebel.com/assets/images/39/2011/08/shutterstock_81670105.jpg Page 11, http://vi.sualize.us/bloemetje/children/
Research Page 17, http://jezebel.com/commuting-stress-women/ Page 27, 28, Rethinking Sitting by Peter Opsvik Page 30, http://www.tm.org/ Page 31, http://sglivingpod.com/home-decor/home-and-decor/new-interior-design-spaces/ Page 32, Source is unknown Page 33, http://www.bang-olufsen.com
Inspiration Page 36, http://dietandi.com/?p=7234 Page 37, http://www.marcome.com/blog/practicing-yoga-to-ambient-music/ Page 38, http://chandrakantha.com/articles/indian_music/nritya/bollywood.html Page 38, http://www.victoriaeducationcenter.com/images/Dance0894.jpg Page 38, http://www.piningfornordstrom.com/2012/03/lasagna-rave.html Page 38, http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/sustainabledancefloorhr.jpg
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Image Credits Page 39, http://dancepulp.com/goods/2011/03/black_swan_movie_001.jpg Page 39, http://quenchnot.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/passionate_tango.jpg Page 39, http://www.worldartswest.org/Assets/Ting5819bWEB.jpg Page 39, http://www.marknolan.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/cherokee-indian-dance.jpg Page 40, http://www.rainbowcube.co.kr/files/attach/images/107/740/344df5628cd75dba2ec9c7a78b5ba81a Page 40, http://www.discoveringfossils.co.uk/nautilus_shell_cross_section.jpg Page 40, http://www.moundhouseantiquemall.com/jm1/images/stories/inside_shell.jpg Page 41, http://www.visualphotos.com/photo/2x2913450/cross_section_of_chambered_nautilus_shell_cb036741.jpg Page 42, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Hopetoun_falls.jpg Page 42, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bachalpseeflowers.jpg Page 43, http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Galunggung-crop.jpg Page 44, http://www.theblaze.com/wp-content/uploads/s2011/12/electric-cars-for-sale-cool-electric-cars-fast-electric-car-electric-carengine-electric-car-electric_car.jpeg Page 44, http://media.treehugger.com/assets/images/2011/10/ec-rnd-005.jpg Page 44, http://www.chinacartimes.com/wp-content/flybo1.jpg Page 45, http://ecarvehicles.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Europe-use-of-electric-cars.jpg Page 45, http://www.archiarcha.com/tag/electric-cars/ Page 45, http://www.ridelust.com/wp-content/uploads/twike.jpg Page 45, http://www.shiotsu-used-car.com/blogpics/nissan_pivo_elctric_car.jpg miwa | Image Credits | Industrial Design Thesis 2012 103
Image Credits Page 46, http://autodigs.com/2010-renault-dezir-concept-car/2010-renault-dezir-concept-car-front-interior/ Page 46, http://topcarreleaseinsurance.info/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/bmw-concept-gina-light-visionary-model-interior-img.jpg Page 46, http://sport-wallpaper.com/wallpaper/audi-locus-concept-car.jpg Page 47, http://www.gauson.com/regal/files/2009/09/sintesi-concept-car.jpg Page 47, http://www.totalprosports.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/bmw-sx-concept-car.jpg Page 47, http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8fpfjW81Veg/TbPJnEhC4JI/AAAAAAAADKg/Zrjb32XKa_g/s1600/Concept+car+wallpapers+4.jpg Page 47, http://www.gm-volt.com/r/BMWvision.jpg Page 48, http://jetsetta.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/astrum-meera-concept-car_main.jpg Page 48, http://autoya.info/img/content_cache/12562/audi_R10_concept_car.jpg Page 48, http://image.motortrend.com/f/9491926+w1500+ar1+st0/112_0702_02z+jaguar_cxf_concept_car+interior_view.jpg Page 48, http://automotiveauto.info/car-seats-interior.html/cadillac-converj-concept-car-interior Page 49, http://www.designlaunches.com/entry_images/1108/21/soul_car_interior_1-thumb-450x337.jpg Page 49, http://www.kia-world.net/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/kia-ray-hybrid-concept-interior.jpg Page 49, http://www.ridelust.com/wp-content/uploads/renault-megane-concept-interior.jpg Page 49, http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7C8H45quZaM/ToiKJvJvMGI/AAAAAAAAArg/kgi6rgabalc/s1600/Jaguar-C-XF-3.jpg
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Objective Focus Page 53, http://www.officechairadvice.com/ergonomic/kneeling/reviews/thatsit-balans-kneeling-chair.html Page 53, http://www.dekrisdesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/flexible-transparent-chair-nendo-555x550.jpg Page 55, http://www.bang-olufsen.com Page 57, http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EkrgpxMmIRk/T1kBZlF6xZI/AAAAAAAACSI/ymNInY430Ds/s1600/Black-Swan.jpg Page 57, http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/sustainabledancefloorhr.jpg