Hannah Sage
Semester 1 FYDP Report
12/12/14
B124660
A PRODUCT TO SUPPORT MILITARY PERSONNEL AND THEIR FAMILIES DURING DEPLOYMENT FINAL YEAR DESIGN PRACTICE:
REPORT: SEMESTER 1
LOUGHBOROUGH UNIVERSITY INDUSTRIAL DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY
th
12 December 2014
HANNAH SAGE: B124660 1
Hannah Sage
Semester 1 FYDP Report
12/12/14
B124660
CONTENTS Index of Figures .................................................................................................................................................................. 4 1.0
The Project Brief ................................................................................................................................................ 6
2.0
Overview of Research and Investigations ......................................................................................................... 8
3.0
Review of Design methods ................................................................................................................................ 9
4.0
Review of Concepts and Key Innovations ....................................................................................................... 12
5.0
Concept selection ............................................................................................................................................ 14
6.0
Review of Design Development ...................................................................................................................... 17
7.0
An illustrative image of the Proposed Design ................................................................................................. 19
8.0
sketch General Arrangement drawing showing Key Features ........................................................................ 20
9.0
Description of proposed design and its functions ........................................................................................... 21
10.0
Review of Project Progress and Prioritised Next ............................................................................................. 23
References ........................................................................................................................................................................ 24 Appendix A: Project Plan .................................................................................................................................................. 25 Appendix B: Product Design Specification ........................................................................................................................ 29 1.0
Proposal ..................................................................................................................................................... 29
2.1
Product Function and Performance ............................................................................................................ 29
2.2
User ............................................................................................................................................................. 29
2.3
Ergonomics ................................................................................................................................................. 30
2.4
Environment ............................................................................................................................................... 30
2.5
Feedback ..................................................................................................................................................... 31
2.6
Aesthetics.................................................................................................................................................... 31
2.7
Finish ........................................................................................................................................................... 31
2.8
Quality......................................................................................................................................................... 31
2.91
Target Product Cost ................................................................................................................................ 31
2.92
Target Production Cost ........................................................................................................................... 32
2.10
Materials ................................................................................................................................................. 32
2.11
Dimensions and Weight.......................................................................................................................... 32
2.12
Installation .............................................................................................................................................. 32
2.13
Maintenance........................................................................................................................................... 32
2.14
Service Life .............................................................................................................................................. 33
2.15
Product Life Span .................................................................................................................................... 33
2.16
End of Life ............................................................................................................................................... 33
2.17
Safety and Standards .............................................................................................................................. 33
2.18
Military Restrictions ............................................................................................................................... 34
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Quantity .................................................................................................................................................. 34
2.20
Production .............................................................................................................................................. 34
2.21
Timescale ................................................................................................................................................ 34
2.22
Testing......................................................................................................................................................... 34
3.0 References ......................................................................................................................................................... 34 4.0 Comments .......................................................................................................................................................... 34
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Semester 1 FYDP Report
12/12/14
B124660
INDEX OF FIGURES Figure 1: Post-It Note Ideation ........................................................................................................................................... 9 Figure 2: Examples of clay modelling for handheld or wearable device ............................................................................ 9 Figure 3: Photoshop 'mash-up' of concept to demonstrate use of materials .................................................................. 10 Figure 4: Cardboard model testing visibility of small screen ............................................................................................ 10 Figure 5: Idea sketches generated during clay modelling process ................................................................................... 10 Figure 6: Sketch model with button placements for Focus Group 2 ................................................................................ 10 Figure 7: Photoshop renders to communicate further information and allow target users to select favourite character .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Figure 8: Ergonomic testing at Focus Group 2 using sketch, blue foam model. ............................................................... 11 Figure 9: Testing the interface using a PowerPoint mock-up ........................................................................................... 11 Figure 10: Handheld 'treasure hunt' initial concept ......................................................................................................... 12 Figure 11: Modern military compact concept for mother ................................................................................................ 12 Figure 12: Child's alarm clock and video message player concept ................................................................................... 12 Figure 13: Typical examples of traditional military compacts from WWI and WWII. These were collated on a Pinterest board for easy reference. ................................................................................................................................................. 13 Figure 14: Community map concept................................................................................................................................. 13 Figure 16: Photoshop renders of variations of two concepts ranked highest from design matrix and shown to target users at second focus group ............................................................................................................................................. 14 Figure 15: Morphological chart listing all concept solutions to the problems outlined in the project brief (listed on pink post-it notes on left side).................................................................................................................................................. 14 Figure 17: Sketch models of two concepts demonstrated at second focus group ........................................................... 15 Figure 18: Reverse engineering of existing products to identify electrical components, placement and size necessary for concept to function. .................................................................................................................................................... 17 Figure 19: Product dimensions as a result of anthropometric data and ergonomics testing .......................................... 17 Figure 20: Testing cardboard mock-ups of parts of a concept in the 'small parts test tube' ........................................... 18 Figure 21: Proposed design and functions. NB: for A3 scale version, see pp. 35,Folio 1 ................................................. 19 Figure 22: Exploded GA of proposed design. NB: for A3 scale version see pp. 1a-1b, Folio 1. ........................................ 20 Figure 23: Storyboard of use. NB: for A3 scale version see pp. 36a-36b, Folio 1 ............................................................. 21 4
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Semester 1 FYDP Report
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B124660 Figure 24: Proposed design and justification of design decisions. NB: for A3 scale version see pp. 39, Folio 1. ............. 22 Figure 25: Project Plan for Semester 1 (part 1). NB: A3 Scale version pp. 4a-4d, Folio 2 ................................................. 25 Figure 26: Project Plan for Semester 1 (part 2). NB: A3 Scale version pp. 4a-4d, Folio 2 ................................................. 26 Figure 27: Project Plan for Semester 2 (part 1). NB: A3 Scale version pp. 5, Folio 2 ........................................................ 27 Figure 28: Project Plan for Semester 2 (part 2). NB: A3 Scale version including timeline sheet until submission on May 15th pp. 5, Folio 2 ............................................................................................................................................................. 29
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1.0
THE PROJECT BRIEF
1.1
USER NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITY
Those in the military choose this way of life; their family do not but still have to find a place to fit in. Currently this need is not being aptly met with an average of 66% of respondents from the Families Continuous Attitude Survey (FAMCAS) 2014 stating they were unhappy with the facilities and events provided to meet other spouses/partners before and after deployment. Many military partners comment on how the support of friends and families is crucial to them, but the support of other military families would be invaluable. 58% of Service families now own their own homes (FAMCAS) and are therefore more removed from the military lifestyle and other families experiencing similar difficulties. Military families experience prolonged separation due to deployment, detachment or an array of other exerst cises. As of July 1 2014 there are 17,600 UK Regular Forces permanently based outside of the UK (MOD Quarterly Location Statistics). This figure excludes those deployed on temporary assignments, to places such as Afghanistan, where 27% of respondents stated that their military spouse/partner has been on an operational tour in the last 1 - 2 years (FAMCAS). After a period of separation young children (under 2 years) may not recognise their military parent which can be devastating for both parents (pp. 8, logbook 2). In later life, the child may not remember the period of separation but it has been proven that military children are more likely to suffer behavioural and emotional problems (pp. 33, logbook 2). Unlike physical traumas, these can recur throughout their childhood and future adult life (pp. 41, logbook 2). The parent at home is likely to undergo significant levels of extra stress on account of becoming a temporary ‘single parent’ (pp. 35, logbook 2). Subsequently the readjustment phase when the deployed parent returns can also prove to be a difficult adjustment (pp. 85, logbook 2).
1.2
USER DESCRIPTION
Half of all military personnel are married or in a civil partnership, therefore 63,250 people could be affected by this problem at some point during their military career (pp. 36-37, logbook 1). 77% of all Service families have children and 45% of those have at least one child under 5 years old (pp. 35, logbook 1). The users are most likely to be mothers with young children, living in their own homes. It is more common for military personnel to be male aged between 25-29 years (pp. 2, logbook 3). There are a greater amount of military personnel based in the south of the country (pp. 14, logbook 3). Military life can affect all members of the family not only due to separation but as part of the transient lifestyle. 25% of families have moved home in the last 12 months, partners may have to change jobs and children may have to start new schools or nurseries (FAMCAS).
1.3
PROPOSAL
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Hannah Sage
Semester 1 FYDP Report
12/12/14
B124660 My proposal is to design a product that can be used by the whole family to facilitate bonding but is then able to connect or interact with products belonging to other families to encourage community involvement. The product should be interactive and provide feedback that is visual, tactile, auditory, or a combination of these.
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12/12/14
B124660
2.0
OVERVIEW OF RESEARCH AND INVESTIGATIONS
Interviews with key users, military personnel, partners and children led to the definition of key areas outlined on pp. 21, logbook 2. These areas were further explored with a literature review to establish the effect of deployment on military children. The importance of the happiness of the child became apparent as this has a direct impact on the health and well-being of the parent at home. Studies showing the negative implications of deployment on children under the age of 5 are supported by both the 'Attachment’ and 'Development Theory'. Retrospectively these state that, “children with secure relationship(s) with both parents are most confident and competent” (pp. 29, logbook 2) and that, “consistent relationships are essential to children's social and emotional growth” (pp. 30, logbook 2). In addition children under the age of 5 who experience deployment are at a greater risk of neglect or maltreatment (pp. 35, logbook 2). Another example of the impact that deployment can have on people's basic needs is demonstrated in 'Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs'. Deployment can be considered a threat to the family (pp. 31, logbook 2). Subsequently the users place in the hierarchy is threatened and their ascension to higher levels is prevented. The target user age for the children was determined as 3 to 8 years, deduced from common age of military personnel, primarily due to characteristics specific to children of those ages. Toddlers are aware of the separation and are able to, “mourn the deployed parent's absence” (pp. 35, logbook 2). A father's absence can negatively impact a child and in those aged 5 – 9 boys tend towards more aggressive behaviour and girls can be more dependent and needy (pp. 42-43, logbook 2). The additional implications of affected routine, sleep and stability in parent's relationship affect younger children more as they look to their primary caregivers for support and reassurance in every area. Consequently the common delineation of 3-8 years, as in many existing children's products, was chosen. Primary and secondary research highlighted the omnipresent topic of support from friends/families and importantly, other military families. It became evident this was a major source of comfort or need for those who did not experience it (pp. 89, logbook 2). The ‘Military Wives Choir’ is an example of this (pp. 85, logbook 2). Further insights demonstrated the importance of keeping busy, prior planning/ organisation and weekly activities to look forward to as a family and help countdown the deployment phase. The obvious problem that, “being apart is not a family life” (op cit.) was raised but the recurrent insight of interest surrounded the fear, from both parents, that the soldier would miss out on milestones and the “little moments” in their child's life (pp. 2, logbook 4). Additionally, the lack of a visual connection with the soldier was an extra, significant drawback. An idea raised in online blogs that was warmly received involved leaving notes for loved ones (both soldier and family) before the deployment phase. This had a personal resonance from my experiences as a military child where I would find notes from my parents whenever I went away and made me feel a continual connection despite the distance. Due to ethical concerns surrounding users under 18, a topic was identified that focussed on the family as a whole in an attempt to improve family bonding and their relationship with other military families. A focus group was arranged with 8 military wives at Chilwell Barracks, Nottingham. Insights gained were invaluable and the majority of women stressed the importance of the support network in the room. Furthermore they clarified that an interactive and fun product for the children would undoubtedly engage parents too. The product must be attractive to the child but suitable for use by both parent and child to encourage whole family involvement. 8
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3.0
REVIEW OF DESIGN METHODS Preliminary idea sketches were generated throughout the research process and documented on post-it notes (Figure 1) exhibiting a range of early ideas. Following this initial outburst, and a UTE for clarification, a few ideas that adhered to the Project Brief most effectively were selected. These were transformed to information sketches that demonstrated the features of the design and began highlighting technical issues. Alongside basic research into technological feasibility to dismiss or support certain ideas, further ideation took place using perspective sketches to communicate early concepts. Preliminary feedback gained from a target user (pp. 8, logbook 4) allowed further generation through informative sketches and mind maps around ideas for incentives.
Figure 1: Post-It Note Ideation
To demonstrate concepts to target users at the initial focus group quick sketch storyboards were generated, alongside basic CAD renderings and moodboards to give an indication of styling cues (pp. 77-78, logbook 4). The likelihood a handheld concept product became evident as this was something tactile that the user could feel close to. As a result early 3D modelling using clay (Figure 2) was utilised to aid the focus on ergonomics, comfort in the hand and to demonstrate wearable concepts (pp. 22 -26, logbook 5). The inclusion of a screen became a clear necessity and subsequently a cardboard mock-up and iPhone 3GS was used to simulate the appropriate screen size (Figure 3). All models were supported with idea sketches (Figure 4) or more developed information sketches (pp. 1-9, folio 1).
Figure 2: Examples of clay modelling for handheld or wearable device
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Figure 4: Cardboard model testing visibility of small screen
Figure 5: Idea sketches generated during clay modelling process
As the concepts were developed the level of presentation was also developed and progressed to Photoshop 'mash-ups' (Figure 5 and pp. 12, 16, folio 1). In preparation for the second focus group storyboards and Photoshop renders were generated (pp. 12-17, folio 1) to help communicate the concepts’ function, aesthetics and materials.
Figure 3: Photoshop 'mash-up' of concept to demonstrate use of materials
In addition to these storyboards, full scale sketch models were used to demonstrate 3D size, shape and some details including button placement. These sketch models (Figure 6, pp. 64-65, 67, logbook 5) also allowed target users to role play use of the concept and give appropriate feedback.
At the third focus group Photoshop layout renders (Figure 7) were used to communicate a range of characters from the same concept. By rendering these the users were able to gain an understanding of the colour, shape, type of material used and provide relevant feedback. To support the layout renders, a new sketch foam model with accurately sized buttons was used for ergonomic testing (Figure 8) and the interface of the concept and associated web app were tested on PowerPoint presentation mock-ups to simulate use (Figure 9).
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Figure 6: Sketch model with button placements for Focus Group 2
Hannah Sage
Semester 1 FYDP Report
12/12/14
B124660 The research methods used were assessed on their suitability for the project on pp. 44, logbook 3 based on prior notes from IDEO and the Design Council. The research process and interviews were vital in providing a design direction allowing design ideation to commence. In addition to interviews the focal source of user research and testing was obtained through the 3 Focus Group sessions arranged and this, in conjunction with foam sketch models, Figure 7: Photoshop renders to communicate further information and allow target users to select favourite character
storyboards and renderings in Figure 7, proved most effective.
Figure 8: Ergonomic testing at Focus Group 2 using sketch, blue foam model.
Figure 9: Testing the interface using a PowerPoint mock-up
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Semester 1 FYDP Report
12/12/14
B124660
4.0
REVIEW OF CONCEPTS AND KEY INNOVATIONS The first notable concepts were developed from the post-it note ideation and presented at the first focus group. One comprised a handheld device (Figure 10) where the user would be able to hold the device next to NFC stickers, previously hidden around the house by the military parent, in order to receive a weekly video message. This took the notion of hiding handwritten notes, as in my childhood (Section 2.0), to the next level. Key aspects of the concept include the visual element, ability to provide up-to-date messages, countdown to parent's return and physical engagement with the product by partaking in the ‘game’. Furthermore the concept provides added benefit when in a community setting (pp. 73, logbook 3).
The second, 2 part concept (Figure 11, 12) had foundations in prior military traditions from the first and second World Wars where soldiers would give their wives and fiancés a 'military compact' (Figure 13) on their departure. Thus, a modern variant of this was generated in order to provide a clear military link. The new compact would combine traditional and modern materials Figure 10: Handheld 'treasure hunt' initial concept whilst playing audio messages for the parent from their deployed spouse/partner. In addition, the compact’s GPS would allow recognition of other devices. Thus it would be aware when in the proximity of other military families and provides points towards an incentives based scheme where the user could spend 'points' on day trips, discounted travel or shopping etc. For the child the matching product would predominantly act as a bedside clock and then display a weekly message for their deployed parent. Other concepts played on the idea of a treasure hunt bridging the gap between the physical and digital. Early ideas involved family keys that could open a 'treasure box' at the military community centre (pp. 84, logbook 3).
Figure 11: Modern military compact concept for mother
Figure 12: Child's alarm clock and video message player concept
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B124660 The concept in Figure 10 was developed in various forms (pp. 1-4, 7-11, folio 1, pp. 14-15, logbook 4) to shift the product focus to the child allowing a fun and interactive products that mothers could also be involved with.
Figure 13: Typical examples of traditional military compacts from WWI and WWII. These were collated on a Pinterest board for easy reference.
To dismiss fears that the compact would get lost wearable technology was considered and an investigation into what target users carry with them was undertaken (pp. 39-40, logbook 4).
One target user favoured several concepts in the early generation phase (pp. 8, logbook 4) including the aforementioned 'treasure hunt' concepts. In addition the community map (Figure 14) that demonstrated, using lights, where military families were to encourage meet ups proved interesting providing a suitable incentive scheme was put in place via an associated app. Alternatives considered printing notes from the deployed parent to provide a more personal product with a keepsake feel (pp. 3-4, 17, 21-22, logbook 4). This was rapidly dismissed due to technical concerns.
Critical concepts generated were those in Figure 16 which depict the most advanced version of the 'treasure hunt' game concept and provided an option for the family as a whole or an appealing character for the child. These concepts embodied the key findings from research and were supported by the focus group.
Figure 14: Community map concept
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5.0
CONCEPT SELECTION
Figure 16: Morphological chart listing all concept solutions to the problems outlined in the project brief (listed on pink post-it notes on left side)
During the initial ideation phase concurrent, fundamental research was undertaken to allow the immediate dismissal of ideas that were technologically not feasible. This included research into small printers (small enough to be handheld) and the ‘Internet of Things’ (pp. 26-27, logbook 4). From the large selection of idea and early information sketches a morphological chart was produced by rearranging the post-it notes in Figure 15 taking existing user feedback into account. From this it became clear which ideas solved (or had potential to) the criteria set out in the Project Brief.
Figure 15: Photoshop renders of variations of two concepts ranked highest from design matrix and shown to target users at second focus group
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For the first focus group, two of the most developed concepts were shown with storyboards, as mentioned in section 3.0. This allowed the target users to provide feedback to guide the concept selection process. It was clear they favoured the concept with video functionality (pp. 92, logbook 4).
Hannah Sage
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B124660 For users, the pivotal aspect of this design (Figure 10) was the visual element of up-to-date and regular communication. Mothers remarked they would love the product for themselves no just the children. However, it was highlighted that the product could be intended for the child's bedroom thus ‘belonging’ to them and offering greater personal significance. To clarify concept selection, 'design matrix' was generated (pp. 52a, logbook 5) to ensure the concept direction was suitable with regard to the Project Brief in section 1.0 alongside target cost and ease of manufacture. This also proved a useful tool to highlight weaker areas for subsequent development in the highest ranked products. NB: Analysis of existing support methods for military families was also carried out to act as a reference throughout designing (pp. 18, 22, 24-33, logbook 3). Issues raised were the inconvenience of access to these services if users don't live on a military base. The two most highly ranked designs (Figure 16) were further developed and prepared for the second focus group (pp. 13-17, folio 1). Storyboards, Photoshop renders and sketch models (Figure 17) of the two concepts were
Figure 17: Sketch models of two concepts demonstrated at second focus group
displayed to substantiate a choice between the two. The focus group was asked to discuss styling cues by selecting one of four moodboards (pp. 18-19, folio 1) and a new direction that combined elements of both the 'modern simplicity' and 'childlike' board seemed most suitable (pp. 31, folio 1). A suitable styling direction acted as an inspiration point for concept generation and development. Additionally the focus group were able to test the ergonomics, placement of controls, screen size and to determine whether the product should be intended for one or two handed use. The result of their feedback was carefully documented in logbook 5, pp. 71-74 resulting in a final verdict that would determine the direction of the final concept. The final focus group was used to determine whether the visual form of the product should have a clear and obvious reference to the military or not. The Photoshop renders comprising the selection sheet in Figure 6 were used to offer the target users a choice between a soldier character and an animal character. These selection sheets were given to the mothers who were able to choose their top three choices and then ask their respective children to do the 15
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B124660 same. This concluded that the monkey form was favoured by both mothers and children. The soldier was a close short runner up for the mothers but the children were more interested in the animal characters (pp. 36-37, logbook 6). During discussions with target users the idea to include a video camera enabling the family at home to reciprocate with their own video message was well received and subsequently added to the final concept.
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6.0
REVIEW OF DESIGN DEVELOPMENT Feedback from target users was crucial but further research was necessary to prove feasibility. Analysis of existing products was undertaken to consider function (Figure 18) and determine that the desired effect was technically achievable at an appropriate cost and size (pp. 37-38, folio 1). In support of this, a software expert clarified that much of the functionality could
Figure 18: Reverse engineering of existing products to identify electrical components, placement and size necessary for concept to function.
be produced in the software provided the main components were in place as in the existing products assessed (pp. 80-81, logbook 5).
Analysis of existing products for children aged 3-8 years, in conjunction with anthropometric data, aided conclusions of button and suitable screen sizes (pp. 8, logbook 6). For controls not intended for use by children (volume) a similar process was performed. Ergonomics testing at the focus groups enabled assessment of the location and size of buttons alongside the
Figure 19: Product dimensions as a result of anthropometric data and ergonomics testing
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B124660 suitability of the overall size of product as demonstrated in detail in Figure 19 (pp. 2-3, folio 2 for large scale versions). Volume controls were placed on the side of the design determined by user testing and supported with analysis of existing products (pp. 65, logbook 6) that demonstrated typical placement of such adjustments on the side. Therefore, the front of the device could accommodate the well-spaced play/pause controls providing easy and effective use for both mother and child. An important factor for a product used by children 3 years and under is to ensure no parts are hazardous to choking. A combination of anthropometric data, CAD calculations (pp. 31, logbook 5) and the 'small test tube' (pp. 88, logbook 5) from British Standards were used to ensure this. Figure 20 demonstrates use of the small test tube during design development. The development of the screen display on the device, use of buttons and web application was tested on the focus group using a PowerPoint mock up to establish it was logical and easy use. The technical application of such interfaces is realistic due to their prevalence in existing products and assurance from the aforementioned software developer. To supplement feasibility, manufacturing processes were considered and appropriate adjustments made to the design. For example, circular screens are difficult to manufacture for a number of reasons so an investigation was performed to find the most cost effective and viable solution. This concluded that a square screen with a circular casing placed over it would be an acceptable alternative (pp. 38-41, logbook 6). Figure 20: Testing cardboard mock-ups of parts of a concept
Mass produced injection moulding would be an obvious in the 'small parts test tube' choice for such a product but the military market requires a batch production process. Therefore, lower volume alternatives were assessed (pp. 70-73, logbook 6) and it was established that Reaction Injection Moulding (RIM) would be the most appropriate alternative. This selection dictated the choice of material (PUR) for many of the required parts.
However, for the design of the neutral base unit it was intended to use a wood to suit the styling moodboards. This raised concerns about production of a hollow, curved wooden shape to house the required electronics. It was determined that CNC top and bottom wooden sections combined with a RIM polymer middle section would create a hollow interior (pp. 48, 52-53, logbook 6). Suitable materials and manufacturing processes were discussed with materials expert, Dick Heath, who confirmed RIM PUR could be suitable but raised areas for further research in addition. This included the suggestion that it might be possible to manufacture the whole product in one part. Further technical issues, for detection of slotting a ‘disc’ into the base unit, were considered evaluating sensors (pp. 85-87, logbook 5) and RFID (pp. 52, logbook 6) before determining push switches would suffice (ibid.). However, it must be noted technical issues and method of manufacturing are areas requiring further development (see section 10.2). The PDS (see Appendix B) supported design development and feasibility clarification. Existing products were analysed to determine certain criteria e.g. battery life (pp. 35, logbook 5), weight of product (pp. 76, logbook 6). British Standards were used to define suitability of graphics used on controls, safety implications of electrical items in the home, safety of toys and to follow age determination guidelines to ensure product suitable for chosen age range. 18
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7.0
AN ILLUSTRATIVE IMAGE OF THE PROPOSED DESIGN
Figure 21: Proposed design and functions. NB: for A3 scale version, see pp. 35,Folio 1
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8.0
SKETCH GENERAL ARRANGEMENT DRAWING SHOWING KEY FEATURES
Figure 22: Exploded GA of proposed design. NB: for A3 scale version see pp. 1a-1b, Folio 1.
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9.0
DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED DESIGN AND ITS FUNCTIONS
The proposed design (Figure 21) is a device that allows mother and child to receive a weekly video message from the deployed parent who is able to record and upload these video messages in his own time from any internet connected
Figure 23: Storyboard of use. NB: for A3 scale version see pp. 36a-36b, Folio 21 1
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B124660 device with webcam facility via a web application. Additionally, the device can be used in a community setting on a monthly basis and programmed (via the web application) to give the mother and child group a clue in order to find the hidden toys in the community room on a military base. The intention is that mother and child will have experienced the benefits of such a device at home and will be willing to 'give it a go' in a community setting, thus meeting other military families in the process. Proposed design supported by research as displayed in Figure 22.
Figure 24: Proposed design and justification of design decisions. NB: for A3 scale version see pp. 39, Folio 1.
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10.0
REVIEW OF PROJECT PROGRESS AND PRIORITISED NEXT
10.1
PROJECT PROGRESS
Throughout the earlier phases of the product there were concerns about obtaining a suitable physical product and subsequently obtaining a direction was imperative. Though this process took a little longer than was ideal, a suitable target area was identified and many concepts generated. At its current point, the progress is satisfactory but there are a number of areas that need further resolving.
10.2
NEXT STEPS
Refine design of base and 'discs' taking consideration of small parts into account. For this aesthetic and safety issues need to be addressed. Prototyping of electronics needs to be further refined by talking with experts (current contact, University staff, potentially my placement company) and understanding the detailed technical implications. NB: some components still need to be sourced. Consider material implications of using RIM and PUR after discussion with Dick Heath. Contact expert at BASF and discuss possibility of manufacturing character component in one piece. Define how the lock will work and source suitable components. Clarify how to manufacture prototype using the most appropriate solution. This is affected by the electronics prototyping and whether a separate functional model is required. Interface – the web application functionality needs finalising and graphics for both the device and web app need work. The results of this must be tested on user group. Investigate suitability of using LEDs to project the character face when product not in direct use.
WORD COUNT: [3827]
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REFERENCES Ministry of Defence, 2014. Statistical Series 6 – Other Bulletin 6.04 – Tri-Service Families Continuous Attitude Survey. [Online] Available at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/341380/FAMCAS_2 014_REPORT_Final.pdf [Accessed 20th October 2014].
st
Ministry of Defence, 1 July 2014. Quarterly Location Statistics (QLS). [Online]. Available at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/345522/qls_jul_14.p df [Accessed 5th October 2014].
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APPENDIX A: PROJECT PLAN SEMESTER 1
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Figure 26: Project Plan for Semester 1 (part 2). NB: A3 Scale version pp. 4a-4d, Folio 2
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SEMESTER 2
Figure 27: Project Plan for Semester 2 (part 1). NB: A3 Scale version pp. 5,27 Folio 2
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B124660 Figure 28: Project Plan for Semester 2 (part 2). NB: A3 Scale version including timeline sheet until submission on May 15th pp. 5, Folio 2
APPENDIX B: PRODUCT DESIGN SPECIFICATION VERSION 2: 10th December 2014 1.0
PROPOSAL
My proposal is to design a product that can be used by the whole family to facilitate bonding but is then able to connect or interact with the products belonging to other families to encourage the community aspect. The product should be interactive and provide feedback that is visual, tactile, auditory, or a combination of these.
2.1
PRODUCT FUNCTION AND PERFORMANCE • • • • • • • • • •
2.2
Must be more physically interactive than existing methods families use. Must provide more personal feedback to use than an email. Could include a range of products to suit the various users. Must encourage more military families to physically meet up than existing methods e.g. the HIVE, coffee mornings on camp. Could include an app or web app for deployed soldier to communicate additional or supporting information as a secondary function that could not already be communicated via existing methods. Could require enough power (5-9VDC) for visual display of images, audio or a combination of the two (pp. 35, logbook 5). Could use an LED screen for better quality. If this proves too expensive for users, consider other options (pp. 35, logbook 5). Could require batteries as a source of power which should last for a minimum of 10 hours continual playback before being replaced. Could use UK mains power supply and if so, must conform with 230 V residential voltage and 50Hz (pp. 36 and 40-43, logbook 5). Instructions could be provided to aid use and comply with BS EN 60335-1: 2002 + A15: 2011 (pp. 40-43, logbook 5).
USER • • • • • •
Must be suitable for varying ages with a primary focus on the following. Could be between 20-35 years old of which majority will be female (pp. 2, logbook 3). Could be for children ages 3-8, male or female. Follow age determination guidelines in British Standard PD ISO/TR 8124-8: 2014 (pp. 45-46, logbook 5). Should be more interactive than existing methods of communication with deployed soldier. Primarily should be more fun, exciting and engaging for children to use on a regular basis than existing methods of communication e.g. letters, emails. Could include a separate device that is suited specifically to the mother's needs giving added value than existing methods. 29
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2.3
ERGONOMICS • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
2.4
Should be handheld for family use. Size should have a length between 100-155mm (5th percentile female aged 3 to 95th percentile male aged 8, pp. 18, logbook 5) to allow for child. Size should have a width between 57-90mm (5th percentile female aged 3 to 95th percentile male aged 8, pp. 15, logbook 5) to allow for child. Size should have a depth of 44mm where handheld (pp. 7, logbook 6). User lifting strength is 88 N for adult (female 5th percentile, pp. 11, logbook 5) and 40.5 kgf-cm for child aged 2.5-3.5 years (mean male and female, pp.17, logbook 5). As a result product must not weigh more than x g to comply with this. Visual feedback must be large enough to distinguish what's going on. Minimum of 30mm x 24mm but the larger the better (pp. 8, logbook 6) . Child's involvement with product should last a maximum of half an hour and include various visual elements e.g. display and lights (pp. 8, logbook 5). Controls must be located within easy reach for all users and confirmed through user testing. Buttons/controls should be no smaller than 3mm x 10mm (pp. 8-9, logbook 6) for use by child. Buttons/controls not intended for child's use should be concealed or smaller than 10mm. Parts should not be small enough to swallow and therefore must be larger than 4.9cc (pp. 6, logbook 5), a minimum of 52mm in width (pp. 19, logbook 5) and larger than a 21mm sphere (pp. 31, logbook 5). 'Small balls' must be less than 44.5mm in diameter to conform with BS EN 71-1: 2011 + A3: 2014 (pp. 49, logbook 5). Should be suitable for one handed use. Lock button to prevent child stopping and starting video during use should require a force greater than 132.1N to activate (pp. 69, logbook 6). Handheld element of device should weigh less than 600g (pp. 76, logbook 6).
ENVIRONMENT • • • • • • • • • •
Must be suitable for use in the home with constant temperature, lighting and be considered a valued possession. The ambient temperature is likely to be between 17-21 ºC indoors (pp. 7, Logbook 5). The ambient relative humidity indoors is likely to be between 50-55% (pp. 7, logbook 5). Product could be subjected to small particles of dust (indoors) or dirt (outdoors) and subsequently should be easy to clean and trapping areas should be minimised. Should be portable for transportation between 2 destinations. Likely to be transported by hand (see ergonomic section 2.3 for restrictions to size and weight). Should be stored in the home on display. Must be suitable for use outside the home: In a communal building. In a communal area (could be outdoors when weather is deemed 'good' by users).
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2.5
FEEDBACK • • • • • •
2.6
Could provide visual feedback. Could provide more tactile feedback than existing products or methods e.g. emails, phone calls with deployed soldier and coffee mornings for the wives. Could provide more auditory feedback than a weekly phone call with deployed soldier. Could provide a mixture of visual, audio and tactile feedback to keep a young child engaged for up to 30 minutes (pp. 8, logbook 5). Must provide more up-to-date feedback than existing comparable products. Auditory feedback must be variable within range of 30-85 db.
AESTHETICS • • • • • • • •
2.7
Could evoke traditional values. Could be personalised by the user (pp. 91-92, logbook 4). Should be valued in the home. Must be desirable to have in the home as 58% of users will live in their own homes outside of a military base (pp. 3, logbook 3). Could have some visible connection with military history. Must present an image of reliability. Must present an image of suitability and durability for use in child's play. Include clearly marked labels adhering to British Standards mentioned in section 2.17.
FINISH • • •
2.8
Could be water resistant. Must not be toxic. Must be aesthetically pleasing.
QUALITY • •
2.91 • •
Should be of high quality so can be treasured by the family for at least both generations originally involved (e.g. mother and child). Could be a material that shows slight wear and tear so becomes a treasured family heirloom.
TARGET PRODUCT COST Must be affordable for families therefore between £40-£50. Could be subsidised by the military or supporting organisation with a maximum contribution of £10. 31
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2.92 • • •
2.10 • • • • • • • •
2.11
Performance functions should not be compromised in order to obtain this cost.
TARGET PRODUCTION COST Must be kept to a maximum of £17. NB: £2 for non-electronic components (pp. 77, logbook 6). If involved with a charity should cost a maximum of £10. Could be supported by the military with a maximum contribution of £10.
MATERIALS Must be durable enough to withstand daily use for a minimum of one year. Fatigue testing? Must be tough enough to withstand daily use by a child aged 3-8 for a minimum of one year. Quantify? Must be rigid enough to support 3 blows of 0.5J and show no damage (pp. 42, logbook 5). Must be reliable. Maximum failure rate of 15% over 3 years. Should be water resistant. Should be compliant with EN 60335-1: 2002 + A15: 2011 (pp. 40-43, logbook 5). Could be shock proof if dropped from a maximum of 1675mm (95th percentile male overhead reach to grip when standing for 8 year old, pp. 6, logbook 5). Must adhere to BS EN 71-2:2011+A1:2014 in terms of flammability (pp. 44, logbook 5).
DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
See Ergonomics section 2.3. •
2.12 • • •
2.13 •
Small parts must be larger than the 'small parts test cylinder' as defined in the European Standard BSEN 71-1: 1998 (pp. 88, logbook 5).
INSTALLATION Must be quick and simple to set up taking a maximum of 5 minutes. May require one off longer set-up per deployment that could take a minimum of 15 minutes with a maximum limit that depends on user involvement. Could involve all family members to help set up and subsequently should take into consideration ages and abilities of potential users as described in section 2.2.
MAINTENANCE Must not be more difficult to maintain than other similar existing products. 32
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2.14 • • • • •
2.15 • •
2.16 • • • •
2.17 • • • • • • • •
May require change maintenance with regard to chosen power supply but should last a minimum of 10 hours before user intervention. Parts that are likely to need changing should be easily accessible and not require any extra tools in accordance with BS EN 60335-1: 2002 + A15: 2011 (pp. 40-43, logbook 5). In particular this includes batteries. Could be supported by the military welfare unit for any maintenance and/or disposal as part of a product service system.
SERVICE LIFE Should be able to reused for a minimum of two 6 month long tours. Could be an object that is treasured and past down family generations. Should be used on a weekly basis by mother and young child in the home. Should be used monthly by mother and young child outside of the home. Should operate consistently throughout two 6 month long tours over the course of 2 years.
PRODUCT LIFE SPAN Could be on the market for 1-3 years until next product iteration. Product life span could be positively or adversely affected by future military involvement overseas.
END OF LIFE Product could be easy to disassemble. Casing could be treasured even when electronic component is obsolete or broken. Parts should be clearly labelled for easy, responsible disposal and recycling. Could encourage disassembly by providing parts that could be removed as keepsakes.
SAFETY AND STANDARDS Could use icons or similar icons from PD 60417 Snapshot: 2013 (pp. 38-39, logbook 5). Should be compliant with BS EN 60335-1: 2002 + A15: 2011 (pp. 40-43, logbook 5). Comply with BS EN 71-1: 2011 + A3: 2014 (pp. 48 – 50, logbook 5). Must adhere to BS EN 71-2:2011+A1:2014 in terms of flammability (pp. 44, logbook 5). Should not have sharp edges. Should not have small parts that could be swallowed by young children, see Ergonomics section 2.3. Must not be able to be accessed by unauthorised users. If includes parts smaller that the 'small parts test cylinder' then must contain the appropriate warning stating that the product is unsuitable for children under 36 months (pp. 88, logbook 5).
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2.18 • •
2.19 •
• •
2.20 • •
2.21 • • •
2.22 •
MILITARY RESTRICTIONS Must not infringe any military restrictions in terms of communication e.g. no GPS. Should use existing technologies e.g. Wifi using existing facilities abroad.
QUANTITY Batch production: Maximum = 60,000. It is likely that small batches will be produced of each individual character and that these small batches will not exceed 10,000 units. More realistically the characters may be production in 1-3000 sized batches. Could be further expanded to include non-military personnel either with additional batches or branching to mass production if applicable. NB: Use of batch or mass production affects production costs and chosen manufacturing processes.
PRODUCTION Must use appropriate techniques for batch production. Prototype must use appropriate techniques to be manufactured within the timeframe and facilities available to the student.
TIMESCALE Must be manufactured within the given timeframe and a working prototype produced by May 15th 2015. This can be in the form of separate appearance and functional models or one combined. User testing should be carried out prior to May 15th 2015 to allow for evaluation time.
TESTING Comply with BS EN 71-1: 2011 + A3: 2014 (pp. 48 – 50, logbook 5).
3.0 REFERENCES Logbooks 1-6
4.0 COMMENTS 34
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B124660 Items highlighted in yellow are areas to be further refined throughout the process. th
Items highlighted in blue are alterations to Version 1 (20 November 2014).
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