INNOVATION Fall 2021: Yearbook of Design Excellence by Industrial Designers Society of America

QUARTERLY OF THE INDUSTRIAL DESIGNERS SOCIETY OF AMERICA

FALL 2021

YEARBOOK OF DESIGN EXCELLENCE Winners and Featured Finalists of the 41st Annual International Design Excellence Awards

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! INTERNATIONAL DESIGN CONFERENCE 2021 - Virtual Event

Media Partners: Advanced Design, Core77, Design Museum Chicago, Female Design Council, Gray Magazine, Lighting Design Awards, Museum of Craft and Design, NYCxDesign, Sit Furniture Design Award, WantedDesign, World Design Organization, Yanko Design

IDSA’s annual International Design Conference (IDC) took place on September 22-23, 2021. The virtual event included the IDSA Education Symposium and featured over 50 presenters, panelists, and workshop leaders, arranged in a carefully choreographed progression over a continuous 24-hour span. In addition to enjoying content that covered a range of industrial design-focused areas, this year the audience was also able to explore several emergent and interconnected topics such as: the importance of accessibility, well-being, ethical decision-making by design leaders, speculative futures, crypto-currencies, and how designing for the preservation of our planet—including all people and species—is non-negotiable for a sustainable future. While we certainly wished we could have been together in person, hosting the event virtually was the safest way for us to gather this year. A clear benefit of an online conference is our ability to bring together our global community. IDC 2021 welcomed attendees and speakers from 17 countries: Australia, Canada, China, Colombia, England, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Korea, Mexico, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Taiwan, and United States. The 2021 IDSA Awards Ceremony and International Design Excellence Awards Ceremony held on September 20 and September 21 respectively, helped build excitement in the days leading up to IDC 2021 in celebration of exceptional design and those who share their passion for design with a dedication to the betterment of our society. Our team is eagerly and actively preparing for IDC 2022, set to take place in Seattle, Washington on September 11-14, 2022. From the start, IDC’s foundation has been the unique opportunity to assemble diverse design perspectives and create an unforgettable shared experience. We are beyond excited to return to an in-person format and safety of all participants remains a top priority. Mark your calendars and start planning your trip to Seattle! www.internationaldesignconference.com

INNOVATION FALL 2021

QUARTERLY OF THE INDUSTRIAL DESIGNERS SOCIETY OF AMERICA

FALL 2021 ®

Design process of Best in Show winner, Xbox Adaptive Controller, page 44.

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678.612.7463 The quarterly publication of the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), INNOVATION provides in-depth coverage of design issues and long-term trends while communicating the value of design to business and society at large. 2

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2021 YEARBOOK OF IN EVERY ISSUE DESIGN EXCELLENCE 8 In This Issue

32 2021 IDSA Honors 43 IDEA 2021 Winners 55 IDEA 2021 Jury

IDSA HQ by Chris Livaudais, IDSA

10 Design DNA by Scott Henderson, IDSA

194 IDEA 2021 Featured Finalists 211 IDEA 2021 Index of Winners

IDSA AMBASSADORS Charter supporters indicated in bold.

Covestro, Pittsburgh, PA Crown Equipment, New Bremen, OH Metaphase Design Group Inc., St. Louis, MO TEAGUE, Seattle, WA Techmer PM, Clinton, TN

14 Beautility

by Tucker Viemeister, FIDSA

For more information about becoming an Ambassador, visit idsa.org/ambassadors or contact IDSA at 703.707.6000

FEATURES 17 Academia 360°

by Aziza Cyamani, IDSA, and Verena Paepcke-Hjeltness, IDSA

20 America by Design 22 Sustainability Deep Dive 2021 Recap 26 Women in Design 2021 Recap 30 How Samsung Is Reimagining Home Appliance Design

by Harry Choi

Statement of Ownership

42 Designing for New Paradigms

by Mary Beth Privitera, FIDSA, IDEA 2021 Jury Chair

214 The Road to Design Leadership

by Stephan Clambaneva, IDSA

Cover photo: Xbox Adaptive Controller Innovation is the quarterly journal of the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA), the professional organization serving the needs of US industrial designers. Reproduction in whole or in part—in any form—without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. The opinions expressed in the bylined articles are those of the writers and not necessarily those of IDSA. IDSA reserves the right to decline any advertisement that is contrary to the mission, goals and guiding principles of the Society. The appearance of an ad does not constitute an endorsement by IDSA. All design and photo credits are listed as provided by the submitter. Innovation is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks. The use of IDSA and FIDSA after a name is a registered collective membership mark. Innovation (ISSN No. 0731-2334 and USPS No. 0016-067) is published quarterly by the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)/Innovation, 950 Herndon Pkwy, Suite 250 | Herndon, VA 20170. Periodical postage at Sterling, VA 20164 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to IDSA/Innovation, 950 Herndon Pkwy, Suite 250 | Herndon, VA 20170, USA. ©2021 Industrial Designers Society of America. Vol. 40, No. 3, 2021; Library of Congress Catalog No. 82-640971; ISSN No. 0731-2334; USPS 0016-067.

Publication: Innovation Publication Number: Vol. 40, No. 3 Filing Date: 09.21.21 Issue Frequency: Quarterly No. of Issues Published Annually: 4 Annual Subscription Rate: $100 Domestically, $165 Internationally Mailing Address: 950 Herndon Pkwy, Suite 250 | Herndon, VA 20170 Mailing Address for Headquarters: Same as above Owner & Publisher: 950 Herndon Pkwy, Suite 250 | Herndon, VA 20170 Managing Editor: Christopher Livaudais Issue Date for Circulation Data: Summer 2021 Total Number of Copies: Paid/Requested outside county: Paid in county: Sales through dealers/carriers: Other classes mailed through USPS: Total paid: Free distribution outside county: Free distribution inside county: Free distribution mailed through USPS: Free distribution: Total distribution: Copies not distributed: Total:

Ave. Year Single 1,670 1,670 1,295 1,320 0 0 140 119 65 69 1,500 1,508 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1,507 1,509 163 162 1,670 1,670

INNOVATION FALL 2021

44 Best in Show | Xbox Adaptive Controller Gold IDEA in Consumer Technology Welcome to the Fold 46 Curator’s Choice | Level Touch - The Invisible Smart Lock Gold IDEA in Home

A Hidden Secret 48 Jury Chair’s Award and People’s Choice | Eargo Neo Hearing Aids and Charger Case Bronze IDEA in Medical & Health

Like Magic AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORTATION 50 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Charging into the Future 52 Silver Winners 54 Bronze Winners BRANDING 56 Century Brand Identity Program From Fashion Forward to Planet Forward 58 Silver Winners 60 Bronze Winner CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS 62 CLOVA Lamp Switch on Reading 64 Silver Winner 65 Bronze Winners

Left: IDEA Gold, Hyundai IONIQ 5, page 50. Right: IDEA Silver, Martian, page 80.

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COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL 66 Apex Exosuit Power, Agility, and Strength 68 BDR100-20 At the Ready 70 Level Bolt - The Invisible Smart Lock Discreet Security 72 Silver Winners 75 Bronze Winners CONCEPTS & SPECULATIVE DESIGN 76 CXN ONE A Dignified Technology Solution 78 LOTUS - Next generation Neonatal Intensive Care Unit A Portal of Wellness 80 Silver Winners 84 Bronze Winners DIGITAL INTERACTION CONSUMER TECHNOLOGY 86 Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller For the Win 88 Silver Winners

100 Haptic - Making the Visually Impaired Feel the UI Tapping into the World of Touch 102

Silver Winners

105

Bronze Winners

94 Bronze Winners ENVIRONMENTS DESIGN STRATEGY 96 MX Fuel Equipment Strategy Electrifying the Job Site 98 Silver Winner

106 Blokable at Phoenix Rising Housing Done Right 108

Silver Winner

109

Bronze Winner

INNOVATION FALL 2021

FURNITURE & LIGHTING

OFFICE & ACCESSORIES

110 JEROME Fitted to Suit

146 Double Scissors Skewing the Norm

112

Silver Winners

148

Silver Winners

114

Bronze Winners

150

Bronze Winners

HOME

OUTDOOR & GARDEN

116 27ART10 Welcome to My World

152 M12 Fuel Hatchet Pruning Saw Carving Out a Quieter, Cleaner Future

118 Nebia by Moen Spa Shower Better for Your Wallet and Better for the Planet

154

Silver Winner

155

Bronze Winners

120 Pella Easy-Slide Operator Let the Sunshine In

PACKAGING

122 Sepura Home Composting Garbage Disposal Unit Disposing of Norms

156 Xfinity Eco Capsule for Xfinity Streaming Box and Xfinity Gateway Products Iconic and Memorable

124

Silver Winners

158

Silver Winners

128

Bronze Winners

160

Bronze Winner

LIFESTYLE & ACCESSORIES

SERVICE DESIGN

132 Origami Face Mask Breathing Easy

162

Silver Winner

163

Bronze Winner

134

Silver Winner

135

Bronze Winner

MEDICAL & HEALTH 136 Nella NuSpec Reusable Vaginal Speculum Designed with Patient Comfort in Mind

SOCIAL IMPACT DESIGN 164 Badger Shield Open Source PPE A Platform for Good 166

Silver Winner

138 WorldVent Ventilator Toward Parity

140

Silver Winners

145

Bronze Winners

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Right: IDEA Gold, Awake RÄVIK S, page 168.

SPORTS, LEISURE & RECREATION 168 Awake RÄVIK S Eco Sporty 170

Silver Winners

173

Bronze Winners

STUDENT DESIGNS 174 Moove The Beauty of Analog 176 Sentinel - Outbreak Bio-reconnaissance A Map for Containment 178 Swell Surf Foot Making Waves 180 TômTex Preserving Our World for Tomorrow 182

Silver Winners

188

Bronze Winners

IDEA Program Partners Through an ongoing partnership with The Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan, winning IDEA products may be entered into the permanent collection of the museum. The Henry Ford name is synonymous with innovation and the pursuit of excellence. The museum welcomes over 1.7 million visitors per year and is a national historic landmark, with an unparalleled collection of artifacts spanning over 300 years of human ingenuity.

LeManoosh.com is a design blog where you can find creative inspiration, boost your skills and look for your next job. It serves a global audience and has established a reputation for highlighting exceptional product design. All IDEA 2021 winners will be featured on the website which allows IDEA to extend our reach and provide the benefit of world-wide exposure for our winners.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

I N T HI S I SSUE

THE PEOPLE AND THE PRODUCTS

n this issue, we recognize the people who use their talents to create products that improve lives and who enhance our professional community through their actions. We also celebrate the beauty of industrial design by admiring the product details, material innovations, and solution-oriented ingenuity at the heart of our trade. This begs the question: What is most important, the person behind the design or the product itself? Perhaps both, equally! We are pleased to highlight the recipients of IDSA’s 2021 Academy of Fellows and Education and Young Educator Awards. These annual appreciations are a moment to celebrate a few of the people in our community who have contributed in profound ways to the advancement of IDSA, to the education of future generations, and to the practice of industrial design itself. Some of this year’s recipients are icons of industrial design who have established a legacy of significance through their decades-long careers and who are responsible for bringing many successful products to market. Turning attention to the designs of today, the winners of the 41st International Design Excellence Awards demonstrate industrial design’s impact, value, and vital purpose in our society. In 2021, IDEA received a record-breaking 2,078 entries from 25 countries. By submitting your work, you are supporting IDSA’s ongoing efforts to provide a valuable community-based platform for industrial designers around the world to learn and grow from one another. IDEA, for us,

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is a program that enables a rich dialog about the current state of design and provides a glimpse into its future. Our IDEA judges worked independently and in virtual groups while conducting their review and selection of this year’s winning designs. The entire process took place over four months and required hundreds of hours of (mostly volunteer) effort. The rigor of our judging process is something we hold in high regard. This commitment to excellence is one factor that separates IDEA from other award programs, of which there are now many. IDEA seeks to find great achievement in design and reward well-rounded products, services, and experiences that are both beautifully designed and have undergone the rigorous process of commercialization. At the end of the day, we may not be able to separate the designer from the products they produce. After all, many of these efforts become a labor of love for the designer and the expanded team as they work to realize an idea to production. Still, other people in our community contribute not through their outright industrial design output but through their service and commitment to leading the generation of designers who follow them. Thank you to all who entered the IDEA competition this year and to all who share their passion for design with a dedication to the betterment of our society. —INNOVATION Editorial Team

IDSA H Q

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXCELLENCE

or this issue, I thought I would use this space to shine a light on a recent event put on by several IDSA professional chapters working in collaboration with one another. On August 5, 2021, IDSA organizers from Columbus, Dallas–Fort Worth, Denver, Seattle, Cleveland, Chicago, Atlanta, and Cincinnati gathered for a Leadership Hype Sesh. They shared tips on how to grow one’s industrial design career by getting involved in IDSA leadership at the chapter level and beyond. This kind of cross-chapter connection, exchange, and partnership is especially meaningful given the physical distancing we are all still challenged by over a year into the COVID-19 pandemic. Hosting events virtually, as this one was, has proven to be a silver lining for many of our chapters because they are now able to engage with a community outside their local geography. In 2020, our professional chapters hosted over 80 virtual events, and they have held 52 to date in 2021. These numbers are impressive. This kind of grassroots programming is a fundamental way IDSA delivers value back to the community. I enjoy participating in chapter events very much. As an IDSA member myself for the past 19 years, I have found them to be foundational to my own design practice and professional network growth. However, I was uniquely inspired by this one because so much of the content was centered around the personal stories these leaders shared about their relationship with IDSA—in particular, the value of serving the community by stepping up to take an active role in creating the type of communal experiences that are important for industrial designers to thrive. I am often asked by members of our community why someone should take advantage of leadership opportunities. The response I give is similar to what many shared during the Hype Sesh event. However, hearing it come directly from chapter leaders themselves is incredibly powerful and much more meaningful than any rationale I alone might be able to provide. Kat Reiser, IDSA, Chair of IDSA Chicago, reflected on the impact IDSA has had on her career by saying, “If I wasn’t involved with IDSA, a lot of the opportunities that came to me wouldn’t have happened.” Joanna Celestina, IDSA, Chair of IDSA Cleveland, shared, “It’s helped me take more initiative and become more of a leader. Which has also, in turn, helped me in my current role as a full-time designer.”

IDSA’s membership experience is different for each individual and is greatly dependent on what you are looking to achieve with your contribution to the Society. I believe the true value of IDSA is experienced through active participation. Only IDSA members can serve on IDSA’s Board of Directors and Districts Committee, as local Chapter officers and Section chairs, and as leaders of other IDSA Councils and Committees, such as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council (DEIC) and Women in Design Committee (WIDC). These positions provide an opportunity to help influence the future of our organization and support other designers along the way. Monica Tournoux, IDSA, Chair of IDSA Columbus, remarked, “It comes back to whatever you put into it is what you’ll get out of it. I’ve found that to be true in so many ways. During and after an event, it’s such a wonderful, amazing feeling to see all that hard work pay off. The difference between just being a member and being in the leadership role is that you have the ability to really make it what you want it to be.” Another opportunity benefit of chapter leadership is the connections made through working as a team. History has proven that our chapters are stronger when there are multiple people engaged in its success. Yi-Ping Wong, IDSA, Chair of IDSA Dallas–Fort Worth, commented, “Leadership is really not about doing things by yourself. If you are doing things by yourself, then you are doing it wrong! It’s about collaborating with others and sharing the responsibility.” I realize this article might be preaching to the choir. But I felt it was important to take a moment and call attention to some of our current chapter leaders who are out there making things happen, even in challenging times. The excellence they demonstrate by hosting events, producing content, and sharing their experiences is profoundly significant. I wanted to use this moment as a signal boost so that others in our community would see this and be inspired to step into action. Like an ant colony, IDSA is an organization that thrives when its members contribute toward its success. No single person can do it alone. Our power resides in our collective ability to build our future together. —Chris Livaudais, IDSA, Executive Director chrisl@idsa.org

INNOVATION FALL 2021

D E S I G N DNA

CRACKING THE CODE! AN INTERVIEW WITH MARC NEWSON

esign has gotten complex—so much so that it’s hard to even recognize it anymore. The weight of the world now rests squarely on our shoulders. It is up to us to save, well, just about everything! Thank goodness for us! Hearken back to a far simpler time when a stayed, entrenched piece of otherwise lowly merchandise could be elevated by the craft, vision, and magic we call design. The mundane, the same, and the plain instantly catapulted to the other end of this sleepy spectrum with intellect, craftsmanship, and wit—and always providing a reminder that it’s not about seeing what has not yet been seen but seeing what can already be seen differently. I recently sat down with design superstar Marc Newson to discuss how he has been able to deliver this alchemy consistently for decades with no signs of slowing down.

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“Look at usual things with unusual eyes.”

—Vico Magistretti

Scott Henderson: What are you working on now? Can you tell us about your latest project? Marc Newson: Unfortunately, I’m sworn to secrecy on what I am working on now. I can say that there are many exciting things coming. This year has been busy despite everything, and I have had a number of releases, including some bespoke switch plates for the artisanal French manufacturer Meljac and the second capsule of my boot collaboration with R.M. Williams. For the America’s Cup, which included the Prada Cup and some additional events, I created a number of things—the logo, the buoys, and the three trophies. I was obviously unable to visit Auckland, New Zealand, where the races were happening, which was disappointing. IWA, a new sake brand, is another brilliant project and the brainchild of the former Dom Pérignon chef du cave Richard Geoffroy, for which I created the bottle. It’ll be available in the US and Europe soon, having recently had its launch in Asia. Henderson: Amazing array of projects as usual! The term “democratic design” is thrown around a lot, meaning that good design needs to be accessible to everyone or, in other words, affordable. However, a downside is that designers become known for creating temporary artifacts that become landfill in no time. You have always managed to find the elusive perfect balance here. What are your thoughts on striking the balance between accessible design and not making cheap, temporary rubbish? Newson: On the one hand, it is a depressing thought to design landfill and add to the ever-growing problem of waste and consumption in our society. On the other hand, things made to last are often vastly more expensive and therefore only accessible to a handful of people. Ultimately, it’s far more sustainable to only ever need to buy one of something. The manufacturers that create these things tend to operate on a small boutique scale and, therefore, create less waste, as well as employ specialized craftspeople, protecting skills that are at risk of disappearing. I’m drawn to more analog

items, things that are more future-proof: timepieces, pens, eyeglasses, furniture. If the manufacturing and design ensure that they will still be able to work for years to come, there’s no reason they won’t. Henderson: The architect is revered for creating enduring monuments across our landscapes. The fine artist is revered for expressing thoughts and ideas impossible to communicate through the spoken word. What should designers strive to be revered for? What is our ideal legacy? Newson: It’s not something I think of often, and I feel one can get bogged down by things like that. The point of design for me is to provide choice, to solve problems, and to raise the bar of what is available to consumers. The best thing about design is that you can take it or leave it. Architecture is far more complex in that we don’t get a choice on the buildings around us. Henderson: Much of what design has been about historically is to create something that can be mass produced. Technology seems to be pointing in new directions where the massive industrial process of yesteryear will no longer be needed to churn out millions of the same identical product. What do you see on the horizon for new manufacturing processes that can allow for more customization? Newson: What was called rapid prototyping has now become so efficient, primarily because truly structural materials can now be used, so the difference between a real structural part and a rapid prototyped one is now negligible. The problem remains cost. However, if critical mass tips in favor of rapid prototyping, then it could become the norm. It may still take some time to rival traditional technologies like CNC machining. You’ve only got to look at some key players in the technology field. These manufacturers are probably a good litmus test of where we are now.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

Henderson: Abstract sculpture is void of any purpose or function. We appreciate it for what it is, not for what it does. Yet some abstract sculptures resonate very successfully with wide swaths of the population in the same way, as if there is a way to configure form that will generate a universally positive response. Do you think that is true, and if so, why? Newson: I do think this is true, and the same can be said for a vast number of notable artworks that are almost universally liked, or if not liked, appreciated. This is because there are some overarching aesthetic values of proportion, geometry, and classical form. These will continue to appeal to people on a subconscious aesthetic level, and that means those things will always look well-resolved. It’s easier said than done, though, to crack this code! Henderson: Designers today have taken the world upon their shoulders. Design students especially are tasked with huge issues they are told they must consider when designing anything—such as climate change, decolonization of design, relational issues, and many other lofty buzzwords. Do you think expanding design’s sphere of influence is having a positive or negative effect on the overall quality of design? Newson: I actually studied fine art with a focus on jewelry, although I ended up submitting what could loosely be described as wearable furniture as my final project. Jewelry was one of the only departments that taught you how to make things. I learned to solder, to weld, the basics of metallurgy, skills that would become indispensable to me. A designer should probably be more of an obsessive geek than a policymaker, although I respect anyone who can do both! It’s not often you hear people say that to approach something with fresh eyes is the best way to work, but that’s what I believe I do and what clients usually come to me for. An external designer can provide a totally different frame of reference and solve problems the industry has been struggling with, because they can see the wood from the trees. I think we need to embrace the advancements made in diverse industries and learn from each other about new processes and new materials. I can trace where I have “exported” particular knowledge from one project to the next throughout my career. Different cultures, scientific developments, what is going on in film, fashion, and art—crosspollination between

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these different disciplines accounts for increasingly interesting and forward-thinking conceptions. It’s a designer’s job to dictate taste by designing well and raising the bar for consumers so their references are enhanced. Henderson: Can you tell us a bit about your design process? Newson: I have developed quite a regimented way of working over the years. All projects start the same for me. I think, I sketch, and I try not to have any distractions during this time. After this initial stage, there is then a process with my team and with computers to visualize and resolve the idea. And then the design is shared with the client and its engineers, manufacturers, and craftspeople. In the last 18 months, my process has changed slightly. I’ve been working remotely as has my company, which, to be honest, has made elements of my process trickier than normal. Things have been moving along, but it’s an order of magnitude to achieve the same speed and ease we had before. Henderson: Some of your most iconic work has been famously displayed at the Gagosian Gallery—one of the world’s most preeminent art galleries. What is design’s relationship to art? Newson: I don’t think there is a clear distinction, and if there is, it’s academic at best and a question of context more than anything. Perhaps for me, in particular, the line has always been blurred. My big break career-wise was my first show, Seating for Six, in a Sydney art gallery in 1986. I produced a selection of “seats,” none of which were produced beyond their 1/1 edition. The Art Gallery of South Australia actually bought the LC1 from this show. It took a number of years after this to begin having any industrial commissions—my first was a fragrance bottle for Shisedo in 1992. It’s a wonderful thing to be able to express yourself without any constraints of a precise brief, but there is no hierarchy between projects for me. Both industrial design and art pieces feed a singular interest of mine. I’m interested in the cadence that each of these industries work at. It also ensures I don’t get bored! —Scott Henderson, IDSA scott@scotthendersoninc.com

Designs by Marc Newson. Clockwise from top: Ford 021C (photo: Ford Motor Company), Lockhead Lounge (photo: Clint Bowers), Atmos 568 (photo: Philippe Joner).

INNOVATION FALL 2021

B E A U T I LI TY

TOO FANCY?

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recently attended a Library Journal webcast: “Designing Libraries to Meet Evolving Community Needs.” One architect said that libraries are one of the few shared community places and emphasized how important and necessary they are today. The panel presented some beautiful library designs. Some looked like posh hotels. Too fancy, I thought. Too much of the wrong kind of design? People would have to be careful in such spaces—like they are in a museum. Some might feel uncomfortable or even unwelcome. Or worse. They might consider themselves outside the community that built them, making the buildings another obstacle to participation in their civic life. Is Too Much Design Possible? When designers preach for more design, non-designers often think we must be mad! Because sometimes designers’ attempts to make the world better backfire, making things worse for some people. Like gentrification, Esperanto, or those cool white Eurostyle Braun appliances by Dieter Rams. Rather than our designs being seen as beautiful forms for everybody, they become exclusive status symbols for elite connoisseurs. That’s how modern architecture and design became the International Style—the symbol of corporate colonialism. Was the style meant to camouflage their intention for world domination? Or was business a spreader of invasive good design? Was form following function? Or just oppressive? Although parents love the impressive new New School University building in New York City, the building is too pristine. Students have to go across the street to the funky new makerspace to spread their crap around, create a mess, and make models. A funky studio fosters creativity because people can be sloppy. They don’t have to worry about making mistakes or letting loose. How do we make a place feel accepting to the public? What are the conscious and subconscious signs we design into spaces and products? During World War II, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology built a temporary research building: Building 20. Since it wasn’t going to be permanent, hardly any design went into it; they didn’t even name it. Since it was just a plain temporary place, students and professors squatted in the free space. Thin wood-stud sheetrock and plywood walls allowed the engineers to literally hack the building. Those “bad” or un-designed things make an ideal petri dish for spontaneous collaboration and innovation. Its lack of design was what made it good (proof that less is more). The hodgepodge mash-up of disciplines with equipment jammed together led to a lot of creativity and accidental discoveries, like the development of high-speed photography, modern-theory linguistics, single-antenna radar, and the physics behind microwaves. They say that in its 55-year existence 20% of physicists have worked there.

Six Nobel Prize winners came from there and Amar Bose invented his speaker there. Thirty years ago (yikes!), I wrote in an essay for the British magazine Design that while designers are taught how to do something, where do they learn that sometimes doing nothing is good design? “Although there are plenty of things that need to be designed or redesigned, we should remember that among them are many things that do not really need to be made, things that we would be better off without and things that are better the way they are already. And it is part of our job to find them and save them so we can spend our time on things that really matter.” That’s the opposite of the Raymond Loewy, FIDSA, motto: “Never leave well enough alone!” It was the beginning of the post-industrial era, so I started calling myself the “last industrial designer!” By the time I wrote that essay, Victor Papanek had already proclaimed industrial design the most dangerous profession. His point was that mass producing bad products multiplies the harmful impact. So doing nothing is certainly a lot better. His books like Nomadic Design and Design for the Real World, from the 1970s, show that he was an early proponent of socially and ecologically responsible design. His teachings are even more valuable today during this crisis of social justice and climate disaster. Unintended Consequences The Industrial Revolution segregated design as a special profession. Industrial design was born to feed the mass production machine (thus “industrial”), and the profession had been driven to design things to appeal to mass markets—stereotyping customers in an attempt to create products that appeal to all the people, from the lowest common denominator to the top of the vanilla bell curve. The products we design supply comfort and wellbeing to a lot of people. And the design process itself can be inviting to all. But do people feel that the designers care for them as much as we care for our designs? Loewy cracked the code; the consumers’ sweet spot was MAYA—Most Advanced, Yet Acceptable. He said, “The adult public’s taste is not necessarily ready to accept the logical solutions to their requirements if the solution implies too vast a departure from what they have been conditioned into accepting as the norm.” In 1934 he published charts to show the evolution of product form, like how the telephone’s archetype evolved from an electrical science contraption to a Victorian cyberpunk candlestick to the ergonomic Model 302 mechanical plastic device by Henry Dreyfuss, FIDSA. Although he couldn’t include the minimal digital platonic 2001: Space Odyssey monolith glass-slab digital phone, he predicted each step erasing decoration and personality by simplifying and cleaning up the form. (Remember the exclamation from Dan Friedman, a postmodern new wave

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graphic designer in the ’80s, that he didn’t want to be a janitor cleaning up corporate identities?) While ubiquitous smartphones are bulging with every conceivable function that can be crammed onto a silicon chip, the old phone lives on only as a pictogram, a wayfinding icon, a symbol, an app graphic that is recognizable by everyone. What could be more mass than international symbols? Expanding the market to include the widest range of abilities necessarily homogenized functionality and individuality. As we wake up to the social injustices we have designed into our environment and gain deeper empathy for the impacted generations, it is good to reconsider systemic approaches and those little details that can magnify both good and unintended consequences. Before OXO Good Grips, there was no such thing as universal design. These kitchen tools became the most significant Smart Design project I worked on. Noted gerontologist Patricia Moore, FIDSA, helped sensitize us to older people’s declining physical abilities, which led me to ask, Why not design beautiful things for older people that work better for everyone? In 1990, Betsy Farber was beginning to suffer from arthritis, and she and her partner Sam Farber asked us to create a potato peeler that was comfortable for her. Dan Formosa studied the ergonomics and physics of the problem. Led by Davin Stowell, we determined that large flat-handle shapes spread stress and increase leverage, so we created forms that are flexible (literally made from rubber!) and provide multiple options that are tolerant and equitable to more users. A transgenerational icon, OXO Good Grips kitchen tools transformed the housewares industry and are universally revered in the permanent collections of many museums, including the Museum of Modern Art, and received the highest awards from the Industrial Designers Society of America, the Smithsonian National Design Museum, the Tylenol Arthritis Foundation—and are in almost everyone’s kitchen drawers. More inclusive by not excluding anyone, universal design is very good. We mass produce one thing that fits everyone—accessible everywhere—and makes the world a better place. Does universal design create paradise for all or replace natural diversity with artificial uniformity? Look how the fiberglass Eames chairs replaced all the seating in airports, schools, and pizza parlors with a shared seating experience everywhere. “When we think of a product for people of such diverse backgrounds,” Raja Schaar, IDSA, asks, “How can one product possibly be perfect for every person?”

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Could the unintended consequences of good design for the most people be corporate colonialization and culturally inappropriate? Founding member of the Disabled List, Liz Jackson says, “Nothing is universal.” She says that what she is “trying to get away from is this idea of normal. I’m worried that universal reinforces it.” Does universal design erase distinctions and make individuals invisible? Yin and Yang The idea of creating good things for more people has the same effect as cultural appropriation or cancellation. Instead of building a huge pigeonhole for everyone to fit into, designers can be agents helping to express differences— extreme inclusive design co-created with the individual for themselves. DIY. Even though it’s not so efficient, we need more inclusive design teams at every level: across the user landscape, tapping sustainable materials, creating meaningfulness for production workers, harmonizing with the whole biosphere. In the post-industrial (and hopefully post-COVID) era, it’s possible for everyone to become their own designer and, like Buckminster Fuller says, to act VERY locally! Michael Kimmelman, the critic for the New York Times, writes in David Rockwell’s new book, Drama: “Every space we are in affects us in ways we may or may not be conscious of. This happens whether it’s a building designed by architects or if you’re walking through some trees into a field.” Today, designing or redesigning those experiences makes our work more critical. Like those libraries that are unintentionally unattractive to a lot of people, every little move affects social equity and the climate crisis. Those slick modern spaces, products, and services are not the only products of design. “Design is a language,” says Carl Gustav Magnusson, IDSA. The design process is a verb, a great tool for welcoming participation and leveraging the crowd, taming a messy process leading to less messy results. (Beautility is a verb too.) Because just like with democracy, the more people who are engaged, the better answers they’ll find, the more they will trust the consequences, and the more they’ll fancy the results. We need more of that kind of considerate and sympathetic design to repair and make a better world for everyone. Shouldn’t everyone be able to peel a potato comfortably? Beautility for all! —Tucker Viemeister, FIDSA www.tuckerviemeister.com

AC AD EM IA 360°

BUILDING EXCELLENCE IN DESIGN EDUCATION

n this column, we are building upon our experiences serving on the International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) jury where we witnessed innovation in design thought, application, and manufacturing and had many fruitful discussions about design and all its facets with our fellow jury peers. We are curious to know what design excellence means for stakeholders in the academic environment. Below we highlight the voices of educators and students from different parts of the country in their response to a simple prompt:

“When thinking about design education excellence, I think about the importance of growth, practice, community, and resources. These components go hand-in-hand, guiding us students to reach our desired goals and full potential. As we work together to set each other up for success, our growth needs to be fostered by safe, adequate, and open-minded studio environments, relevant course offerings, dedicated faculty, and a commitment to not only ourselves but those around us as well. Design education doesn’t end in the classroom but should continue throughout all facets of the educational institution. This includes consistently advocating for student needs and acting on concerns, as well as facilitating introductions for professional relationships, community action, and future employment opportunities where students can continue to grow and learn through their chosen design practice.” —Dara Benno, S/IDSA, Masters of Industrial Design Class of 2022, Rhode Island School of Design

“2020 has impacted our education system drastically: For educators, they not only have had to shift the way they teach to keep the students engaged but also have had to update the materials they’re teaching to make it work for the virtual format. For students, they have had to rethink how they can get the most out of their design education experience while adapting to the new learning format as well. Interestingly, we have started to see some shifts in the learning experience and outcome from this interruption. More and more students have started to use design thinking to tackle more societal issues with a systemic approach by understanding the root cause of the problems they’re solving for, instead of only designing to resolve surface-level matters. Not only has this change provided students with more opportunities to figure out the issues they care about the most and the areas of focus they want to have as designers, it has also given the design educators a chance to restructure their courses and revise their class materials to allow their students to explore their passion and purpose during their design education. While 2020 has passed, we still and will always have many challenges ahead that need to be addressed in a more systematic and timely approach. We as designers can be the forces of change. Design education has a huge impact on shaping the next generation of designers’ way of problem-solving. Because systemic issues are by design, we as designers have a tremendous responsibility to use our skills purposefully to create the future we want to live in. To me, this emphasis on problem-solving through a more systematic approach is design education excellence.” —Danielle Chen, IDSA, designer, Huge, and adjunct faculty, Drexel University

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“Excellence in design education is when students thrive in an environment where empathy, inclusion, and respect empower them to tackle complex problems, explore multidisciplinary viewpoints, and learn from trial and error. It happens when students are valued for their strengths and given the opportunity to explore, imagine, and address ethical solutions to real-world problems. It is attained when students appreciate diverse cultures, consider the user context, and leverage evolving technologies. It is important to support equity in design, harness the potential of all students, remove evaluation biases, and encourage students to have discourse about diversity. Excellence can be achieved when teachers and students work collaboratively toward an inclusive learning experience that embraces constructive feedback and enables mutual growth.” —Sana Behnam, PhD candidate in the College of Design, North Carolina State University

“Design education excels in environments where there is thoughtful consideration for the voices included in decision-making conversations and where intentions are set to positively impact the environment and the general welfare of communities. When setting up an educational environment, it is imperative that the classroom is a safe and inviting space that encourages fruitful conversation, constructive criticism, and creative thinking. It is important to include a range of different voices, from students who come from diverse backgrounds to mentors who have work experience in a range of different industries. Productive collaboration between students occurs when each individual is open to learning from one another and brings their unique experience and talent to the table. Productive mentorship between students and professors thrives when teachers prime courses with foundational knowledge of concepts, encourage conducting thorough research and use of available resources, and foster an environment of curiosity, creativity, and innovation. Excellent design education builds passionate students who are willing to go the extra mile to create products that positively impact the world while challenging conversations around design to be more inclusive and ethical.” —Stephanie Park, S/IDSA, Department of Industrial Design Class of 2022, Rhode Island School of Design 18

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“A funny idea was brought up to me as a freshman. One of my professors at the time suggested an alternative to a design way of thinking. ‘A design way of being,’ coined in-house by Mike Glaser, was the resounding chorus during my time at Drexel Product Design, and it lay at the heart of everything we did. As students, we were made to revere the power of design and recognize its influence on everything from the room we were sitting in to the infrastructure of nations. We marveled at the role of the designer as a purveyor of new realities and the tantamount responsibility that comes with it. We began to see ourselves as players and movers, curators of our own lives and of the future we wished to live in. Unlike learned skills, which fade if not put into regular practice, a design way of being is not so easily reversed. Once one grasps the mindset of design, the entire world shifts into a new realm of possibilities. The lines between life and design, work and the world, imagination and reality blur. But hardly into obfuscation—on the contrary, out of it. It is through this lens that we begin to see problems differently in order to solve them strategically. True design excellence is understanding that every experience, every iota of information, and every mental faculty comprise our capability as designers, and it does well to maintain all of them.” —BreAnna Bechtold, S/IDSA, Product Design Class of 2021, Drexel University

“Excellence in design education is so multifaceted. At its core, design education must be inclusive, future-oriented, systemic, and ethical. My approach as an undergraduate ID program director and educator is to inspire students to imagine new possibilities and to have the technical skills to articulate those visions in the form of valuable and impactful products, services, spaces, and experiences. An excellent design education goes beyond skills. It should nurture attitudes, curiosities, and mindset. At the end of the day, it’s really about a well-balanced approach to creative thinking and critical thinking so that future designers can play integral roles in both identifying and solving problems that need to be solved.” —Raja Schaar, IDSA, Assistant Professor and Program Director Product Design, Drexel University, and co-chair, IDSA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council

“Excellence in design education is about developing educational experiences that support all students and all faculty in discovering, learning, contributing, challenging, engaging, and imagining future possibilities for our profession. We need to provide students with proficiency in a range of technical, social, and cognitive fields of knowledge, the ability to work collaboratively with multiple disciplines, and the capacity to harness diversity in these efforts. Delivering a constantly widening body of knowledge while meeting students’ varying interests and needs requires flexibility, adaptability, and collaboration. It also requires empathy for the many challenges students face. Design education, however, has been exclusionary and inflexible. Making design education accessible and inclusive to those who seek to enter the profession and reimagine what, where, and how design is taught is now more important than ever. Faculty have a responsibility to identify and mitigate barriers and biases in the admission process, the student experience, curriculum development, and the skill sets we value in our students. Equally as important is to revisit the faculty experience and the recruitment and promotion processes for women and underrepresented minorities. Design education has played a major role in widening disparities, and we have a responsibility and the opportunity to lead change.” —Carolina Gill, IDSA, professor of industrial design and co-director of the Health Centered Design Lab, North Carolina State University

The common theme we see is that community and empathy matter as much (if not more) as the physical and technical aspects of design education. Excellence is what continues to propel the design profession forward to adapt to changing times while driving discovery and innovation. In talking about design excellence, we cannot ignore the disparity in meaning for different stakeholders in the design profession. For some, it is related to objects, experiences, and services, while for others it is related to communities, systems, and institutions. More than ever, there is a need for inclusive processes, harmony, and ethical considerations in the design curriculum and environment to form the holistic learning and teaching experience students and faculty alike seek.

“Outstanding education occurs in an environment where students’ sparks of curiosity are nurtured, where knowledge is not only shared but consistently challenged to push the boundaries of the status quo. Both educators and learners must co-create this safe learning environment for students to practice independently, collectively, freely, and critically. Designers must be compassionate advocates for people; we should lead with our hearts. By cultivating an understanding of the diverse and fluid world we live in, we become the voice of the vulnerable and empathetic stewards of communities. This practice starts in the classroom through accountability to each other and establishing relationships that last a lifetime. As teachers, our mission is to provide diverse contexts and tools to help students become critical and flexible thinkers capable of navigating numerous factors and influences they will encounter. We must teach students the tools to make their visions visible to themselves and others so they can lead and create better futures and take a seat at the table. We also need to instill the power of art to touch people profoundly. Design is art, and we must not forget that. Finally, we cannot achieve a true sense of design education excellence until we make design education more accessible. We must diversify our field to bring a broader perspective and represent the communities we are designing for and with. We all have a lot of work to do.” —Ayako Takase, IDSA, associate professor and graduate program director, Rhode Island School of Design

Action item: Cross the aisle and strike up a conversation with someone about excellence in design education and how we could build in flexibility to propel an adaptive design landscape. Share your experience with us on Twitter or send us an email. Follow us on Twitter @academia360_ID and join the conversation using the hashtag #ACADEMIA360_ID. —Aziza Cyamani, IDSA, and Verena Paepcke-Hjeltness, IDSA, with contributions from industrial design students, educators, and teaching professionals. acyamani2@unl.edu; verena@iastate.edu

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T E L E V I S I ON

CELEBRATING INNOVATION WITH AMERICA BY DESIGN

DSA is pleased to continue its ongoing partnership with MWC Productions for season 2 of America by Design: Innovations, a television show about inspiration, disruption, and changing the game through the power of design. Over 20 million combined viewers watched the Season 1 premieres of “California by Design,” “New York by Design,” and “America by Design.” As we enter our second year of collaboration, we’ve been continually impressed by the response the show has received from our community and the expanding audience we’ve been able to reach with each iteration. Season 1 of America by Design recently wrapped up and featured dozens of exceptional design innovations, some of which were created by IDSA members. The program aired on Saturday evenings in June–July 2021 on CBS or ABC networks in major US markets such as Austin, TX, Boston, MA, Chicago, IL, Detroit, MI, Los Angeles, CA, Minneapolis, MN, New York, NY, and San Francisco (Bay Area), CA. All episodes can now be seen for free on YouTube (search: America by Design). One of the primary reasons we are involved with the show is to provide an opportunity for as many IDSA members as possible to be spotlighted. Season 1 included several IDSA members who participated as featured designers, judging panelists, or segment presenters. The on-camera roster included David Bulfin, IDSA, Stuart Constantine, IDSA, Jonathan Dalton, IDSA, Michael DiTullo, IDSA, Dan Harden,

IDSA, Scott Henderson, IDSA, Chris Livaudais, IDSA, Vicki Matranga, H/IDSA, Mauro Porcini, IDSA, and Demetrius Romanos, IDSA. Additionally, multiple recent IDEA winners were highlighted: Zip Top (Silver, 2019), Dexcom G6 (Silver, 2019), GMX7 Aquatic Resistance Training (Bronze, 2020), and Welch RetinaVue (Silver, 2020). Another equally important motivation for continuing our collaboration with MWC Productions is because this platform supports IDSA’s long-standing goal of being an advocate for the profession of industrial design. This is a foundational pillar for our organizational mission and America by Design broadcasts our voice to millions of viewers across the country. Just imagine all the creative minds who may never have heard about industrial design or known that a career like this exists. Now they can be inspired to pursue a vocation in design, because a show like this demonstrates the innovation process and calls attention to the impact great design can have on everyday lives. We are delighted that the series will continue for another season and look forward to having the work of IDSA members and IDEA winners highlighted in such a big way. Look for Season 2 of America by Design: Innovations to air in early 2022.

Right: Filming for season 1 of America by Design. Rebecca Finell, the designer and founder of IDEA 2019 Silver winner Zip Top, shows off the products to host Steve Cozzolino (top) and Nigel Prentice, Design Director at IBM, discusses IBM’s mission for inclusive design with host Carey Bond (bottom).

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Sustainability Deep Dive 2021

SUSTAINABILITY, CIRCULAR DESIGN, & SOCIAL IMPACT

DSA’s second annual Sustainability Deep Dive, held June 9–10, 2021, built upon the success of the original in 2020 with hundreds of designers from across the globe convening online to discuss sustainable design processes, circular systems, and energy equity. Eleven design students also attended for free, thanks to generous donations to the Design Foundation’s DEI Event Access Program. For four hours each day, attendees enjoyed a panoply of insightful talks and breakout sessions with co-emcees Kevin Bethune and Sayeh Dastgheib-Beheshti, IDSA, leading the way. At the end of Day 1, designers gathered over Zoom for a networking happy hour to connect and keep the conversations going. The Importance (and Sustainability) of Virtual and Hybrid Events “As we are coming out from the pandemic’s grip, we cannot afford to let this once-in-a-century opportunity to make a systemic change pass us by,” says Stephan Clambaneva, IDSA, Sections Director on IDSA’s Board of Directors. “We are going to see more technological advancement in these next 10 years than in the previous 50. But we need a balanced approach: a people-planet-profit approach ensuring a measurable triple bottom line.” Clambaneva and Jason Belaire, IDSA, the current Chair of IDSA’s Board of Directors, served on the content team for the inaugural 2020 IDSA event focused on sustainable design strategies, processes, and product experiences. This Deep Dive has become so important to the design community and the IDSA brand and will continue

Right: Screenshot from Daniela Bohlinger, Head of Sustainability, BMW Group Design

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because, according to Belaire, “we are at a critical point where we need to be curating real-time, knowledge-based experiences where designers have a safe place to generate conversations around sustainability, circular design, and social impact issues.” Key organizers of SDD 2021 also included Dr. Sasha Alexander, IDSA, the director of the Academic Program of Industrial Design at Western Sydney University in Sydney, Australia; Matt Barnes, IDSA, senior industrial designer of packaging solutions at Veritiv; Ethan Smith, IDSA, a freelance designer focused on regenerative strategy; and Shruti Parikh, IDSA, associate director of product development at Takeda in Boston, MA, and Vice Chair of IDSA’s Sustainability Section. Besides virtual events being, according to Parikh, “easier to scale, more affordable, and more strategic from a data and analytics perspective,” the organizers also found that by reducing costs for all involved and other barriers to access for attendees, such as travel, they could reach audiences they were not reaching before. Virtual events like the Sustainability Deep Dive, “will color future decision-making and influence new opportunities for co-design and thoughtfulness in collaboration in all ventures,” says Alexander. For example, virtual conferences over the past year allowed academic staff at Western Sydney University “to redirect all usual conference attendance funding towards students in need during the pandemic with no local family and no means of alternate support. A small but impactful gesture so they could continue their studies even in lockdown.” And while in-person design conferences in general are expected to return, there is something to be said for sustainability-focused events staying virtual or incorporating a hybrid model to lessen the environmental impact. “Personally, I’d like to see a hybrid of both options in conferences moving forward,” says Barnes. “Technology provides the opportunity for these events to continue to have a virtual arm, allowing engagement both in persion and virtually from home or the office.”

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Day 1: From Designing Waste Out to Designing for Dystopia The conference kicked off with a lively introduction by Clambaneva and emcees Bethune and Dastgheib-Beheshti before transitioning into three superb opening presentations. The first talk by Daniela Bohlinger, head of sustainability at BMW Group Design, showed how sustainability can be a significant driver of change, especially at BMW in recent years. Kari Herlevi, project director of circular economy at Sitra, explained how to design waste out with circularity by providing examples of models that can propel companies to be forerunners in pursuing both economic and environmental benefits. Krystal Persaud, founder and CEO of Grouphug Solar, talked through her process of “designing for dystopia” while remaining optimistic, weaving subjects like energy equity, education, and climate justice into her own practice and life’s work. Next, attendees were invited into Zoom breakout sessions with Tim McGee, the founder of LikoLab, to learn more about life-centered design; Theresa Millard and Jeff Zeman of the TrueNorth Collective, to start taking those

crucial first steps in design for sustainability; and Vinay Bhajantri, a product design engineer at INDEED Innovation, to figure out how to consider and then reduce CO2 emissions in one’s design decisions. Finally, main stage presenter Kelsey Moffit, a senior industrial designer at Loop Global, shared how designers can guide manufacturers toward the future of sustainable packaging. Day 2: A Prism of Perspectives The second and final day of the conference began with three more fascinating keynote presentations. Al Iannuzzi, PhD, vice president of sustainability at The Estée Lauder Companies, presented case studies illustrating how many companies are integrating sustainability into business operations, creating a positive impact in their communities, and supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce. Chandra Farley, Just Energy Director at the Partnership for Southern Equity, shared her work on good energy by design, looking at the ways in which co-design with communities marginalized by the climate crisis can be prioritized to realize a regenerative good-energy future for all. Christian Engene, the sustainability lead at the Swedish innovation agency Above, walked participants through approaching global challenges and how to immediately act on high-level goals and corporate sustainability targets. The Day 2 breakout sessions included “Design for Sustainability Ability: Exploring Supply and Demand,” with Dr. Louise Manfredi, IDSA, of Syracuse University; “The Living Product Challenge: A Visionary Path for the Future of Products” by Ren DeCherney, business development manager at the International Living Future Institute; and a Deep Dive Café for participants to meet up virtually and make professional connections. The final keynote address was delivered by Marc O’Brien, co-founder of both The Determined and Climate Designers. In asking “What if every designer were a climate designer?” he challenged the audience to question the status quo of simply producing stuff that eventually becomes waste and instead collaborate with the scientists, researchers, policymakers, and others who are on the frontlines in addressing our climate emergency.

During and following the event, participants took to social media to share their reactions. “Really enjoyed the discussions at the Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA)’s Sustainability Deep this evening, especially the great discussions at happy hour!” wrote Alan Cucknall on LinkedIn. “Very good, thought-provoking conversations coming out of the #IDSADeepDive,” Liana Charles, IDSA, wrote on Twitter. “Life-centered design, ethics/equity, circular business models, education, environmental policies, calls to action and so much more!”

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Women in Design Deep Dive 2021

UPLIFTING VOICES

he second virtual installment of IDSA’s Women in Design Deep Dive—and 5th consecutive IDSA event focused on women in industrial design and related fields—drew hundreds of attendees from around the world on July 28–29, 2021. The online experience once again proved how important it is for female-identifying and non-binary designers to have a safe space where they can connect, discuss, and generate meaningful solutions for gender parity and inclusivity in the workplace, with allies also in attendance to listen, learn, and support. Increasing Access and Opening Minds With the support of event sponsor Ammunition, IDSA was able to give 18 students complimentary registration to the WIDDD 2021. Loft LLC in Providence, RI, and Women in Industrial Design Chicago, in partnership with Ovyl Studio in Nashville, TN, also supported the event by purchasing multiple tickets for women in design to attend. Across both days of the Deep Dive, themes of vulnerability, empathy, mental health, diversity, equity, co-creation, risk taking, relationship building, adaptation, and resilience took hold and radiated throughout. The speaker lineup included design educators, strategists, founders, inventors, authors, entrepreneurs, and designers across graphic, UX, research, footwear, and industrial design focus areas. The attendees ranged from students to junior and mid-level designers to VPs and top business leaders, all gathering to hear powerful lived experiences and to better understand not only the challenges faced by women in design today but also their triumphs, advice, and visions for how to move forward.

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For approximately four hours each day, co-emcees Sarah Rottenberg, associate director of the Integrated Product Design Program at the University of Pennsylvania, and Raja Schaar, IDSA, program director of product design at Drexel University, guided participants through an energizing mix of keynote presentations, breakout sessions, and speaker roundtables. Simultaneously, audience Q&A and sidebar chat interactions kept the sense of community real and buzzing, as close to an in-person feeling of connection as could be achieved virtually. The gathering also served as a time to reflect on and celebrate the roots of this event and how it has pushed the industry forward in just the past few years. During the emcee introduction, Schaar described attending the first IDSA Women in Design event in San Francisco, where she was invited as a speaker. She recalled walking into the preconference happy hour on a balcony space. “There were only a few people there,” she said, “and I was chatting with the people in front of me. The space behind me was filling up. And I remember turning around and gasping and tearing up a little bit, because it was overwhelming to be in an environment with so many people who you knew looked or felt the way that you did. And as I’m thinking this, someone walks in and literally blurts out, ‘Are all of you really industrial designers? All of you?’ And it was like, ‘Yes, of course we are!’ And it was a moment when you could feel the emotion in the space. It was just rippling through the air.” “For us, having this identity-based conference really gives us the opportunity to think about not just women in design in relationship to each other but women as designers,” she continued. “And to value the expertise and the experience and all of the things that we do and the way that we operate, and how they touch, and not because we are women, but because we are people who have amazing ideas who just happen to be women.” Day 1: Inspiring Journeys The first day of the event included four presentations, three breakout sessions, a speaker roundtable, and a virtual happy hour for continued conversations and networking.

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Reneé Seward, associate professor at the University of Cincinnati, shared her inspiring career trajectory from graphic design student to design researcher and entrepreneur. Her company’s tool, See Words Reading, helps those who have difficulty reading letters on a page by using an inventive font, SeeType, which recently won an STA Award. Jo Barnard, creative director of the London-based design and innovation consultancy Morrama, walked through her path to starting a design agency with refreshing candor and transparency. Jacquelyn DeJesu Center, founder and CEO of the femmefocused design and innovation company DEEJAYZOO, talked about her flagship product launch SHHHOWERCAP and the steps that led to her success with humor and heart. And as the closing Day 1 keynote presenter, Cheresse Thornhill, design director of S.E.E.D. at Adidas, explained how she found fulfillment in her design career through the connections she made over the years and the wonderful work she is doing now with her team transforming the

footwear design industry and cultivating the next generation of diverse design talent. The invigorating and informative Day 1 breakout sessions were “Activism Through Design,” led by Ti Chang, IDSA, founder and vice president of design at Crave; “Permission to Speak: Unlocking the Power of Your Personal Voice,” led by writer LaDonna Witmer; and “The UX Mindset: How UX Works with ID to Define and Create Products with Purpose,” led by Darcy DiNucci, vice president of user experience design at Ammunition. Day 2: Persistence, Resilience, Discovery The second day carried over the tremendous momentum from the first with four more presentations, three breakout sessions, and a Day 2 speaker roundtable discussion. Ayse Birsel, award-winning designer and author of Design the Life You Love, shared her design process, Deconstruction:Reconstruction, as the “red thread” running through all of her design studio’s corporate product design, innovation, and brand work and also through her life, which she described as “the ultimate design project.” Dominique

Mueller, director of inclusive design at Target, presented her life story with breathtaking vulnerability, revealing how social economic constraints, racism, and intentional connections can lead to a purposeful design career. No matter what your positionality, she declared, it’s about what you make possible for others. Monica Weiler, PhD, co-founder of the Stratos Innovation Group, expanded on the event theme of resilience by looking into how the concept of resilience itself has evolved over time, with many examples of how it can be applied to design practices at the personal, team, and organizational levels. Finally, Frances Bronet, president of Pratt Institute, shared how she and her colleagues created unpredictable ecosystems, with overlaps in dance, disability studies, architecture, and more, to allow for serendipitous moments of discovery. The Day 2 breakout sessions focused on the topics of “Designing for Humanity,” led by Phnam Bagley, partner at Nonfiction; “Mother of Invention: How Good Ideas Get Ignored in an Economy Built For Men,” led by Katrine Marçal, author of the book of the same name; and “Closing the Gender Gap Through Design,” led by Başak Altan, IDSA, in which participants discussed themes from the book Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez and their own experiences as women in industrial design. Attendees and speakers alike enjoyed and appreciated the return of this virtual experience. “It’s always energizing to see a talented community of women sharing their inspiring experiences and projects,” wrote attendee Chelsea Young. “Thank you, IDSA, for organizing another awesome WIDDD!” Vicki Matranga, H/IDSA, Chair of IDSA’s Design History Section, was similarly enthused, calling WIDDD 2021 a “fantastic program” with “so many riveting speakers and inspiring stories.” She went on to say, “Every speaker was powerful. The breakout sessions allowed all to speak, and the chat comments built connections. A great success for IDSA. Thank you for organizing such a needed event.” And as speaker Cheresse Thornhill wrote to us, ““Thank you IDSA for creating a space for women in design to share our collective genius! Can’t wait for next year!”

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C U S T O M I ZAB L E DE SI G N

HOW SAMSUNG IS REIMAGINING HOME

APPLIANCE DESIGN

home is more than a roof over our heads. It’s not just a place for eating and sleeping but also a vessel through which we express ourselves. And objects in the home are not merely functional tools; they are symbols that help us communicate to the world who we are. From architectural elements right down to the materials we use for furniture, almost everything in the interior can be changed and adapted to fit individual lifestyles and aesthetic preferences. Except for our appliances. Even as new trends appear and styles continue to evolve in interior design, standardization remains the dominant approach when it comes to consumer electronics. Why can’t flexibility and personalization be the standard in home appliance design? Driven by the vision to help everyone create homes that provide everything from comfort to connectivity, designers at Samsung developed a design philosophy that’s redefining the boundaries of appliances: Bespoke Home.

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Reimagining Customizable Design Flexibility is at the heart of the Bespoke Home vision. The design team at Samsung recognized the importance of this principle as they heard time and time again from consumers about the difficulties of finding appliances that resonate with the interior of their homes. By bringing customization to home appliance design, the Bespoke approach makes it possible for individuals to create harmonized spaces with unified aesthetics. The Bespoke Home project began in the kitchen—a space that has evolved to become the hub of social activities and self-expression in the modern home. With panels that can be customized with various colors and finishes as well as a modular design, the flagship Bespoke refrigerator empowers users to create appliances that match their tastes. The Bespoke refrigerator range has been received enthusiastically by users since launching in Korea in 2019.

The freedom given by the customizable design led to an explosion of creativity, sparking new styles that are worlds apart from the exteriors of standard white goods. Maximizing Minimalism in the Home The COVID-19 pandemic has brought dramatic changes to how people view their home. As consumers spend more time indoors, many are looking for ways to reduce clutter and expand their living spaces. With a modular system that can be adapted to different spatial arrangements, Samsung’s Bespoke Home provides a new paradigm for achieving minimalist interior design by reducing extra surfaces and lines that usually come with home appliances. At the same time, the design approach seeks to maximize continuous surfaces between home appliances and furniture while also creating flowing lines in the interior. Regardless of the layout of a kitchen, the Bespoke refrigerator can blend seamlessly with existing furnishings, such as doors and countertops. By extending this design principle to appliances throughout the home, Samsung’s Bespoke Home promises to reshape the contours of modern living spaces. Lifestyle-Focused Home Appliances In Samsung’s Bespoke Home vision, the design and features of home appliances should not be developed in a vacuum. Instead, every aspect should be built to suit the

spatial and social context in which they are used. Home appliances are different from regular machines. Their features and designs not only need to deliver specific functions and capabilities, but they should also serve as building blocks of people’s lifestyle aspirations. With Bespoke Home, Samsung is giving users appliances that are perfectly adaptable to their routines and preferences. Multifunctional open spaces are becoming more popular in today’s homes. The boundary between the kitchen and other living areas is often blurred or combined. In response to this emerging trend, designers at Samsung developed the Bespoke AirDresser to help users build spaces that coordinate with their Bespoke refrigerators. And with the Bespoke Jet, a slim, minimalistic vacuum cleaner, the team offers a home hygiene solution that balances usability and design for changing lifestyles in the post-pandemic era. By moving away from the mass-production approach, Samsung’s Bespoke Home is bringing a lifestyle-focused philosophy to modern appliance design, transforming living spaces into places that are truly in sync with consumers’ ever-changing needs. —Harry Choi Harry Choi joined Samsung in 1994. He is the senior vice president and head of the design team for the Digital Appliances Business.

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I D S A HONO R S

Alistair Hamilton, FIDSA 2021 IDSA Fellowship Inductee

SHARING KNOWLEDGE AND PROVING DESIGN’S VALUE IN BUSINESS

ith an over 30-year history of IDSA membership and design leadership at world-renowned technology companies, including Motorola, Microsoft, Blackberry, and now Amazon, Alistair Hamilton, FIDSA, has contributed essential research, passion, and knowledge to the profession and the Society that merits Fellowship. He has served as Director at Large on IDSA’s Board of Directors from 2009 to 2012, Executive Editor of INNOVATION from 2010 to 2012, and IDEA 2008 Jury Chair, among other positions in the organization. Hamilton has contributed expert content to IDSA events, publications, and programming, and over the years has ensured the professional dialogue remains up to date and relevant to the changing technology landscape. Hamilton began his career at NCR Corporation, where he went on to lead an integrated team of industrial, environmental, and interaction designers supporting NCR’s retail, financial, and computing business units. Developing the first self-service checkout in 1998, Hamilton founded the Design Center’s Interaction Design practice and grew this team into an innovative professional services organization integrating research, design, and human-factors specialists. As vice president of innovation and design at Symbol Technologies from 1998 to 2007, Hamilton created a portfolio of integrated products and design processes and was deeply involved in company strategy and product

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development. This approach attracted global recognition and billions of dollars in revenue, ultimately driving Motorola to acquire the company. In a presentation at Microsoft’s Interactive Edges conference, Hamilton shared a schematic device, UI, and networked databases that preceded the notion of IoT or cloud computing by more than a decade. This insight was integral to his position as partner and creative director at Microsoft. From 2007 to 2009, he led the research and design development of the Windows Phone 7 and developed the chassis strategy that enabled devices to scale through OEM without compromising performance and quality. At Blackberry, he led integrated ID & UX experience planning and research for the Blackberry 10 devices portfolio, including the first-all touch Blackberry with a breakthrough on-screen gesture-based keyboard, and the first hybrid touch keyboard on the Blackberry Passport. Since joining Amazon in 2013, Hamilton has held director of design roles overseeing Kindle, Amazon Prime Video, and now the physical stores. He built and led the design teams responsible for developing the end-to-end CX and brand personality of Amazon Fresh Stores, including the development of the Dash Cart, a smart shopping cart that recognizes items as you shop and skips the checkout line. Today he leads UX, ID, and design research across Amazon’s physical stores.

“Alistair was drawn to Amazon based on the potential of using more data in the design process to further raise the bar on design’s impact to the business,” writes Steve Kaneko, FIDSA. “In his time there, he has built the team that invented an industry-ﬁrst mechanism for connecting the dots between customer impact and the bottom line. This required leading progressive efforts to integrate both business factors and human factors to achieve customer outcomes.” The integrated business and design approach has become widely used across Amazon. Hamilton is also known for openly sharing his knowledge, giving back to the design community since the beginning. “I know Alistair from his time in Ohio at NCR and his service to the local IDSA community in Ohio,” writes James C. Kaufman, FIDSA. “His advice to us was invaluable in formulating the direction in our graduate design program.” “Alistair Hamilton has significantly expanded and deepened the body of knowledge available to industrial design, funding and contributing to IDSA programs such

as the DesignAbouts and INNOVATION,” writes Kristina Goodrich, former executive director of IDSA, in reference to the groundbreaking IDSA DesignAbout conferences in the early 2000s and the INNOVATION Index, a complete digital directory of the journal for membership and with archives preserved for the public. Additionally, “as a member of the IDSA Corporate Design Consortium, he shared his management methodologies and challenges openly with his peers, helping position industrial design as a vital contributor to corporate success.” “Alistair has represented our profession with integrity and humility, and has been a mentor and coach for so many designers and human factors professionals creating the many consumer and enterprise-grade products in use today,” writes Kaneko. “I believe Alistair represents the professional expertise, proven IDSA commitment, and topnotch personal character deserving of being called a Fellow of IDSA.”

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Dr. Mark Evans, FIDSA 2021 IDSA Fellowship Inductee

PROMOTING INDUSTRIAL DESIGN AND IDSA WORLDWIDE

or more than 30 years as an IDSA member, industrial designer, and educator, Mark Evans, PhD, FIDSA, has used his deep knowledge and capabilities to advocate for the practice of industrial design across the globe. A reader in industrial design at Loughborough University since 1991, Evans has worked as a corporate and consultant industrial designer, contributed to over 120 academic publications, supervised 36 industrial-design-related PhDs, and secured $1.2 million in funding. He also is the first international IDSA member (he resides in Leicester, England) to receive IDSA’s highest honor of Fellowship. Through his leadership, Evans has seen the industrial design program at Loughborough University, including the Bachelor of Science in product design, grow from an undergraduate total of 90 students in 1991 to 530 students today. His contributions have elevated both the status of the industrial design discipline within the university and the reputation of its graduates. Industrial designers taught by Evans have gone on to land leadership roles at Apple, Porsche, Bosch, Rolls Royce, Philips, and Dyson, among other world-leading organizations. Besides serving as an IDEA jury member and facilitating engagement of UK students with IDSA for more than two decades, Evans created and distributed the IDSAbranded iD Cards beginning in 2011. In response to a need to improve communication and understanding between

industrial designers and other professions during new product development, Evans created the iD Cards design tool. Working in collaboration with IDSA and a former PhD student, he designed the fold-out cards to identify and explain 32 key types of design representation. “I have been teaching design methods to industrial design students since 2004, and I haven’t been able to find a more useful and comprehensive methods toolkit than iD Cards,” writes Tsai Lu Liu, IDSA, professor and department head of graphic and industrial design at North Carolina State University. “Mark is one of the most influential ambassadors of IDSA to the world. His passion and engagement in IDSA are truly inspiring and invaluable.” In shipping these cards to IDSA District and National conferences over the years, Evans reached an audience of approximately 30,000—a conservative estimate—and provided a clear understanding of the terms used by designers and the steps needed to create a world-class product. In 2012, the iD Cards were translated into a smartphone app; efforts to secure funding for an update to the app’s software are currently in progress. The app’s content has been used for the “What Is Industrial Design?” page and related articles that define the profession on IDSA.org. Despite a general trend in the UK and Europe to move away from the term “industrial design” to “product design,”

Opposite, top to bottom: Mark Evans, FIDSA (third from right) working with NGO leaders in Africa; Mark teaching with class of students.

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Evans has been dogged in maintaining “industrial design” as the historically accurate and unambiguous descriptor for the profession. He was instrumental in retaining the term in the Loughborough University Bachelor of Arts degree that recruits over 110 students per year, and has been a pioneer of the PhD in industrial design. “Mark’s contributions to teaching, research, and IDSA have made a signiﬁcant and unique contribution to further interests of the Society and profession,” writes Mary Beth Privitera, PhD, FIDSA, a principal at HS Design and a former student of Evans. “He has a unique proﬁle that spans the teaching of foundation sketching to leading multi-collaborator, international research tackling major global challenges.” An IDEA winner and recipient of the 2016 IDSA Education Award, Evans also is a vigorous advocate for socially responsible design. In 2020 he was awarded $150,000 by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Global Challenges fund to, in collaboration with NGOs in Nigeria and Rwanda, investigate

the use of plastic water bottle waste in 3D printing and study how industrial design can be used to produce socially useful products in low-income economies. In 2016, he was awarded $75,000 by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council Global Challenges fund to explore how industrial design can transform indigenous sustainable materials in Uganda, Kenya, Indonesia, and Turkey to generate employment opportunities and help alleviate poverty. A foldout Thinking Materials design tool was exhibited in these four collaborating countries and distributed to 146 countries on the Development Assistance Committee list. “Mark’s representation and leadership have been extremely beneficial for IDSA’s global outreach,” writes Tor Alden, FIDSA, principal at HS Design. “His efforts reaching into other professional communities have given increased understanding and exposure to the benefits of industrial design.”

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Louis Nelson, FIDSA 2021 IDSA Fellowship Inductee

LEADING THE WAY AS A DESIGN CONSULTANT AND ARTIST

visionary designer, artist, business consultant, and writer whose work has touched lives for more than 50 years, Louis Nelson, FIDSA, is a long-standing IDSA member whose contributions are highly deserving of Fellowship. Among his countless achievements, Nelson designed the Mural Wall of the Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC, winning an IDEA in 1996, the Dag Hammarskjöld Medal for the United Nations, and the nutrition facts label for the Food & Drug Administration and America’s food packages. “Louis Nelson is an important leader of design in the world and locally in New York City,” writes Tucker Viemeister, FIDSA. “Enriched by boundless curiosity and a rare sensitivity to the world around him, his career encompasses helping travelers ﬁnd their way at America’s leading airports; branding and identity programs for global corporations and start-ups; and product development in the ﬁelds of mass transit, museums, telecommunications, entertainment, construction, and government.” As director of the multidisciplinary design and planning firm Louis Nelson Associates in Manhattan, Nelson has delivered award-winning and profitable work in product development, interiors, exhibitions, environmental graphics, information systems, corporate communications, and packaging. His clients have included multinational and local corporations, professional associations, foundations, and city, state, and federal governments.

Nelson served in IDSA’s New York Chapter between 1970 and 1978 and worked at the highest levels to advance the World Design Conference and the World Design Foundation, now the Design Foundation. He has contributed to numerous IDSA chapter and national events, including the IDSA/ICID 1985 World Design Conference and the IDSA 2005 National Conference, both held in Washington, DC. “Louis was one of the first members of the Society that I met when I joined in 1972,” writes Peter W. Bressler, FIDSA. “Louis, through his superior design work and always charming and supportive manner, has been a mentor and role model for me and so many other designers, helping us find our way in what is, from time to time, a challenging profession. To many of us, Louis was the north star of the independent design consultant. His support for IDSA has been unwavering and his contributions to the success of the profession are innumerable.” Nelson has received a Rowena Reed Kostellow Award, Career Achievement Award, and 125 Icons distinction from his alma mater, Pratt Institute. He graduated with a degree in industrial design from Pratt in 1958; served in the U.S. military from 1958 until 1962, becoming a captain and helicopter instructor; and returned to Pratt, graduating with a master’s degree in industrial design in 1964. RitaSue Siegel, FIDSA, met Nelson when he was a graduate student and she was an undergraduate at Pratt Institute. “The chair of the department, Rowena

Opposite, clockwise from left: Louis Nelson, FIDSA; Nelson with wife Judy Collins and President Bill Clinton (source: @louisnelson Twitter); Korean War Memorial Mural in Washington, DC, designed by Nelson (source: Bumble Dee - stock.adobe.com)

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Reed Kostellow, FIDSA, spoke very highly of him, and we became the close friends we are today,” Siegel writes. “Louis was the first designer and the only one I have ever met to refer to himself as both an artist and designer. When I review the work he has accomplished over the years, listen to him reason and develop ideas on multiple levels for a wide range of interests, I know it is an accurate reference.” For 14 years, Nelson served as chair of the Rowena Reed Kostellow Fund at Pratt. Under Nelson’s leadership, the Fund sponsored the research, writing, and design of Elements of Design: Rowena Reed Kostellow and The Structure of Visual Relationships for design students and designers. Nelson also wrote the book Mosaic, describing

the history of monuments and the story of how the one he designed was developed. “Louis Nelson has conducted himself both personally and professionally by contributing to IDSA and the general public at the highest levels of design,” writes Michael Cousins, owner of Cousins Design in New York City. “His work has encompassed both the public and private sectors, making important contributions to our lives and to society at large. Louis is truly deserving of this honor of recognition by his IDSA peers.”

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Lucia DeRespinis, FIDSA 2012 IDSA Fellowship Inductee

PIONEERING A PATH FOR WOMEN IN INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

s an icon of industrial design and IDSA member for over 50 years, and for her lasting contributions to the profession and design education, Lucia DeRespinis, FIDSA, more than deserves IDSA’s highest honor of Fellowship. Her body of work is legendary, from the midcentury clocks she designed for George Nelson Associates, to the 1959 American Exhibit in Moscow she designed with a team including Charles and Ray Eames, to the Dunkin’ Donuts logo she designed using her five-yearold daughter’s favorite colors. A practicing industrial designer before IDSA was formed in 1965, DeRespinis received her Bachelor of Industrial Design from Pratt Institute in 1952 as one of three women in her graduating class. She built her career in a maledominated industry by working as a senior designer at the eponymous studio run by George Nelson, FIDSA, from 1954 until 1963. She worked on lighting, interiors, ceramics, graphics, packaging, and more, including tableware for American Airlines, furniture for Herman Miller, and the Chrysler Pavilion for the 1964 New York World’s Fair. Many of her designs are still manufactured, sold, and exhibited worldwide. Her clock designs have been reissued by Vitra and are still available for purchase at MOMA and the Noguchi Museum in New York. DeRespinis was a student of Rowena Reed Kostellow, FIDSA, and Eva Zeisel, carrying their legacies through her own teaching at Pratt. She started as an adjunct professor

of industrial design in 1979, at the age of 55, and continued until her retirement in 2020, at the age of 93. She taught Kostellow’s 3D design methodology and the ways of applying it to different fields, from tableware to furniture, with her famous Tabletop Design course sought after by four decades of students. “My first class in industrial design was with Lucia DeRespinis,” writes Debera Johnson, IDSA, professor of industrial design at Pratt Institute. “I was a sophomore at Pratt back in 1986. She pulled the two other women in the class aside and told us, ‘You’re going to have to work harder than the guys.’ She spoke from experience.” “Lucia is a torchbearer,” writes Crystal Ellis, co-founder of the New York design company Egg Collective. “She always told her students, ‘Once you are an industrial designer, the world is ﬁlled with questions of how and why, and you will never be comfortable again. This profession seeks to make life better for humanity. Keep that in mind as you choose a path.’” In the late 1980s, DeRespinis traveled with Robert I. Blaich, FIDSA, and an IDSA delegation to China to promote industrial design. She has participated in numerous events with the IDSA NYC Chapter over the years, helped to start the IDSA Student Chapter at Pratt, and has long directed individuals and potential clients to IDSA as a primary professional resource for industrial designers. “Lucia’s care for her work, her students, and the field

Opposite, clockwise from left: Lucia DeRespinis, FIDSA at age 33 while working in Moscow on the American Exhibition; DeRespinis today; sketch of a radio for the Emerson Company, 1953, by DeRespinis.

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“Once you are an industrial designer, the world is filled with questions of how and

why, and you will never be comfortable again. This profession seeks to make life better for humanity.

”

—Lucia DeRespinis of industrial design has not waned, even as she turned 94 years old this year,” writes Amanda Huynh, IDSA, assistant professor of industrial design at Pratt. “In a recent 2021 exhibition by Egg Collective, Lucia’s Beehive Lamp (1960) was shown alongside contemporary pieces. It looks like it could have been designed yesterday.” Indeed, designers continue to discover and be inspired by DeRespinis, including Lauren Dern, IDSA, Chair of the IDSA Northern Lakes Chapter. In 2020, the Chapter invited DeRespinis to speak on the virtual panel “Women in Industrial Design: Generations.” “She told us a story of her ﬁrst job as a designer—as the only woman, she was expected to answer the phones—and how she took it as an opportunity to get in the door, prove

her design skills, and a few weeks later, she was no longer answering phones,” writes Dern. Learning how DeRespinis advocated for herself helped to give Dern the framework and confidence she used to land a job shortly after the event. “Speaking to a group of designers about being a woman in industrial design, starting her career in the midcentury, and in a very predominantly male environment, she gives young women today the perspective and perseverance we all need.” As IDSA and her many nominators for Fellowship agree, DeRespinis’ legacy will live on in IDSA’s Academy of Fellows in recognition of her body of work, her commitment to promoting excellence in industrial design, and her development of young designers for generations.

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I D S A HONO R S Editor’s note: The winners of the 2021 IDSA Education Awards will be featured in a roundtable discussion in the Winter education issue.

Randall Bartlett, IDSA 2021 Education Award

he recipient of the 2021 IDSA Education Award is a beloved educator, designer, colleague, and mentor with a long-held commitment to bridging the gap between industrial design education and industry. Randall Bartlett, IDSA, the Bauhaus Quasi Endowed Professor in the School of Industrial and Graphic Design at Auburn University, is well-known for working to ensure the success of his students and the industrial design profession on an international scale. Following a decade of professional practice in the commercial lighting, sports equipment, and health and wellness sectors, Bartlett joined the faculty at Auburn in 1993. Since then, he has produced multiple studentbased industry collaborations each year. To date, he is the principal director of 32 corporate-sponsored design studios, including a 10-year collaboration with Emerson Tool. Bartlett has developed and led two initiatives at Auburn that have become influential program hallmarks. Since 1996, he has directed the nine-week Collaborative Studio Abroad Program each year, which has provided more than 375 students with the opportunity to learn industrial design through collaborations with schools and organizations across Ireland, the UK, and Italy. In 2015, he began the Mobile Futures Studio, a 10-week design assistance program with local businesses in Mobile, AL. A long-standing IDSA member, Bartlett has contributed to multiple IDSA publications and IDSA conferences. He worked extensively with RitaSue Siegel, FIDSA, in producing a series of conference workshops that helped students and professionals improve the effectiveness of their portfolios. This lauded portfolio review collaboration set a standard of excellence and earned an IDSA in Gratitude Award in 2001. Additionally, Bartlett has been named twice on DesignIntelligence’s list of the Most Admired Educators, in 2010 and 2011, and is a three-time winner of the Auburn College of Art, Design, and Construction’s Outstanding Teaching Award, in 2001, 2002, and 2011. “I have witnessed firsthand Randy’s great passion and dedication to both industrial design practice and education,” writes Shu-Wen Tzeng, IDSA, associate professor of industrial design at Auburn. “After 41 years of design practice and 31 years of teaching, Randy is still devoting himself to design education with the goal of bringing positive impact to not just the students at Auburn University but also the design communities inside and outside the United States.”

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Dr. Elham Morshedzadeh, IDSA 2021 Young Educator Award

DSA is pleased to recognize Elham Morshedzadeh, PhD, IDSA, assistant professor in the industrial design program at Virginia Tech, with a 2021 Young Educator Award. Since joining the faculty in 2017, and especially during the COVID19 pandemic, Morshedzadeh has continuously impressed her colleagues and students, balancing an ambitious roster of sponsored programs with rigorous healthcare design research. She is a leader of the new undergraduate biomedical engineering degree at VT, regularly collaborating with clinicians and engineers to create unique research opportunities and turn them into learning experiences for her students. Among her many academic contributions, she initiated a program for fourth-year studio projects and internship opportunities with Carilion Clinic and collaborated on a study funded by the National Institutes of Health to design a comprehensive telemedical encounter for infants and preschool children. Morshedzadeh has worked with VT’s Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics (BEAM) department on several collaborative efforts, including a program with the Veteran Affairs Hospital in Salem, VA, that brought biomedical engineering and ID students together to conduct in-depth needs assessments. As a result, “Biomedical engineering students have a deep respect for the complementary role of industrial designers, and actively seek out collaborations with ID students for new projects,” writes Christopher B. Arena, the collegiate associate professor and director of experiential learning at BEAM. “It is no surprise that Elham’s students frequently gain employment in the medical device industry, as they are already performing at a professional level prior to graduation.” “I believe Elham does the difficult and complex work of ‘walking the walk’ to translate skills learned in undergraduate courses to marketable post-graduation skills,” writes Sarah E. Henrickson Parker, PhD, an associate professor and department chair of healthcare innovation and implementation science at the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine. “As IDSA continues to build their healthcare focus, young educators like Elham will be leading the way. She has learned to be polylingual, speaking the language of designers, engineers, and clinicians. She is teaching her students that same skill, creating the transdisciplinary workforce of tomorrow.”

Left to right: Randall Bartlett lecturing, Dr. Elham Morshedzadeh with student, George Chow with 2018 IDSA SMA Winner Jonathan Seto.

George Chow, IDSA 2021 Young Educator Award

DSA is delighted to honor George Chow, IDSA, assistant professor of industrial design at the University of Houston, with a 2021 IDSA Young Educator Award. Chow is highly regarded for making several key improvements across the College of Architecture and Design and for always going above and beyond for his students. Since Chow joined the University of Houston faculty in 2016, he has focused on making the student design experience smooth and meaningful. One such initiative was to spearhead providing students with floating Solidworks and KeyShot licenses. This increased their productivity and the quality of their work, while also allowing for a seamless transition during the COVID-19 lockdown, since students already had the tools they needed to work remotely. Chow has written papers on industrial design education and sustainability, presented at conferences, and developed a sustainability class, which was offered for the first time in spring 2020. Over the past year, he has threaded sustainability through all his studio projects, encouraged students to reuse materials, and advised on student-run green initiatives.

“From the first day of his teaching at the University of Houston, he has presented his passion for education and spent additional hours to mentor students,” writes EunSook Kwon, PhD, IDSA, who hired Chow and is the current chair of the School of Industrial Design at Georgia Tech. “He is an engaged and excellent teacher based on the number of students’ design awards, the samples of student work, and highly favorable course evaluations.” As IDSA’s current South District Chapter Representative, Chow tirelessly volunteers his time to promote students’ work and coordinate events that build connections between students and professionals across IDSA’s South District and nationally. “George is a force of positive change,” writes AnneElisabeth Baker, S/IDSA, a rising senior in the University of Houston ID program. She was taking one of Chow’s studio courses when the pandemic hit last year. During that time, she says, “George made himself entirely available to us and spent so many unrecognized hours on one-on-one sessions with each of us to make sure we had a strong foundation. His motto is, ‘No designer left behind.’”

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IDEA 2021

DESIGNING FOR NEW PARADIGMS

hidden blessing of the remote working arrangement we’ve been engaged in for well over a year now is how it has enabled design discussions from multiple continents with one of the most diverse teams I have ever had the pleasure of working with. From consultants to corporations to independent designers to educators and design thinkers, the 2021 IDEA jury delivered in their deliberations about design and their careful review of over 2,000 IDEA submissions from 25 countries. While the pandemic seems to be lingering on a bit longer than we all would like, our ability to overcome and actually improve collaboration is most evident in the commitment made by the jury. Time zone challenges seemed to be the only remaining hurdle as efforts of inclusion, equity, and diversity were certainly achieved. The 2021 jury process was fueled by passionate designers discussing design, the impact of design, the cultural context, and the environmental factors that impact our lives daily. For over 40 years, the judging criteria that define design excellence have remained largely unchanged. They include the evaluation of design innovation, the benefit to the user, the benefit to the client/brand, the benefit to society, and appropriate aesthetics. A new category debuted this year: Concepts & Speculative Design. It was created to distinguish the products, services, and projects that are not available for purchase to the public or that have not been developed to the point of tangible production and distribution from those that have been released to the public. Since IDEA has long meant to recognize products that are proven successes in the marketplace, in addition to being well-designed, it was important to create a category for speculative designs that could include technologies or features that do not yet exist. Industrial designers, after all, are frequently in the pursuit of creating products that take users one step closer to the future. Highlights in this new category include the LOTUS - Next generation Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, a suite of solutions that enhance the neonatal intensive care experience to help families and clinicians provide personalized care, and the Bizzy and Martian home robot that explores what home service robots could look like and how they would work. IDEA 2021 also was unique in that we received several entries that were produced to directly address the COVID19 pandemic. A wide array of design solutions demonstrate 42

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the magnitude of the pandemic and the innovation required to help keep people safe and save lives. Some standouts: In the Medical & Health category, the WorldVent is an emergency-response mechanical ICU pandemic ventilator that performs the same life-saving function as highly technical ICU ventilators at a fraction of the cost. The Visby Medical COVID 19-Test is an instrument-free single-use PCR device that delivers near 100% accuracy in under 30 minutes. The Valence InVent Xtend enables a single ventilator to ventilate two, three, or four patients while ensuring the safety of the connected patients. The COVID-19-related projects are found in other categories as well. In the Home category, the Origami Face Mask is not only free of harsh, toxic materials like plastic, elastic, and metal, but it is also an open-source design that allows anyone to make their own mask. The Badger Shield, from the Social Impact Design category, is an opensource face shield platform designed to rapidly distribute desperately needed personal protection equipment to smaller medical facilities and essential workers. This focus was even evident in student work with the Sentinel Outbreak Bio-reconnaissance system. It uses emerging technology to rapidly diagnose and report disease data in real time to enable health authorities to make faster and more informed decisions to prevent further spread and an escalation to the level of a pandemic. The pandemic has reinforced that never before has the globe been so connected. Design needs to be not only people-first and planet-first but also adopt a global perspective. It’s heartening to see this ethos present in a number of IDEA winners. Circular Plastics – Returning Waste to Use in Africa converts plastic bottles into 3D printer filament. It not only reduces waste but also encourages entrepreneurship in low- and middle-income countries. Service Meet Service is a digital and physical toolkit for generating advocacy and reform around the commercial sexual exploitation of children and youth. It is a living digital tool that serves as a robust record of best practices over time. Join me in celebrating the best design has to offer—and the potential for where it can take us. —Mary Beth Privitera, FIDSA, 2021 IDEA Jury Chair mb@hs-design.com

INTERNATIONAL DESIGN EXCELLENCE AWARDS 2021 Winners & Featured Finalists

DEA recognizes products and services that encourage, inspire, and push our industry forward. We promote innovation and excellence. We encourage an in-depth and forward-thinking process. Ultimately, we honor great design that brings real benefit to users, clients, and society. We received over 2,000 entries from 25 different countries and regions this year. Of those, a combined 142 were chosen for Gold, Silver, and Bronze awards recognition.

The IDEA trophy is a puzzle made up of the letters I, D, E, and A, which attach to a central core with magnets. These individual pieces represent the physical, visual, digital, and experiential disciplines we all work within, and they combine to illustrate how a successful design is much more than styling or a novel idea alone. It is the effective combination of many different aspects to create something greater than its parts. See these and thousands of previous winners in our online gallery at idsa.org/IDEA.

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BEST IN SHOW

CONSUMER TECHNOLOGY

Best in Show selected by the IDEA Jury

Xbox Adaptive Controller

WELCOME TO THE FOLD

esigned primarily to meet the needs of gamers with limited mobility, the Xbox Adaptive Controller is a hub that makes gaming more accessible. You can connect external devices (such as switches, buttons, mounts, and joysticks) to it via 3.5-millimeter jacks and USB ports to create a customized controller experience. It not only fills a gap in the market but, most of all, serves the needs of gamers who are often underserved by the industry. The Adaptive Controller was built from the ground up through partnerships with The AbleGamers Charity, The Cerebral Palsy Foundation, SpecialEffect, Warfighter Engaged, and many community members. Input from these groups helped shape the design, functionality, and packaging. The Xbox Adaptive Controller was designed to replicate all the functions on a standard wireless Xbox controller: 18 buttons plus two analog joysticks. To make the experience simple and accessible, each function was broken out into a discreet port and clearly labeled, allowing users to easily plug and play a variety of widely available buttons, switches, joysticks, and other specialty inputs. The proportions, spacing, and white space around all the touchpoints were carefully considered to make the device appear approachable and the functionality clear. The designers placed a high priority on flexibility and customizability to accommodate as many different types of use cases as possible. Industry-standard threaded inserts on the bottom of the controller allow it to be mounted easily wherever it needs to be in the play space, and the breakout-box functionality of the device allows for buttons

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and other inputs to be spaced around a gamer so they are easily reachable. In addition to physical customization, all the controls are digitally remappable too. The physical attributes of the enclosure were tuned for a universally enjoyable experience as well. The sloped top and rounded edges invite resting hands, and the space between the large buttons was designed to accommodate rocking back and forth to actuate either button. The form of all the buttons references the standard controller but is enlarged and domed to make them easier targets. Assistive technology often looks like what it is: something you need to use, as opposed to something you want to use. Devices that stand out for being clunky and out of place can be stigmatizing to users and make them feel like an other. One of the main goals of the Adaptive Controller was to normalize the use of an assistive technology product. The design team used the same materials, color palette, and form language as the rest of the Xbox product line, making the device desirable on its own, whether you need it or not. To make it truly accessible, the Xbox Adaptive Controller is available online and at a price point below $100. Custom controllers, or “rigs,” can cost $500 or more and need to be assembled by an expert or specialized charity organization. Putting in one place all the tools a gamer needs to build a custom rig increases their ability to be self-sufficient and feel like a welcome part of the community. Designed by Microsoft - Windows and Devices Design Team

“The Adaptive Controller

really captured our hearts. It was designed to empower an entirely new audience of gamers with limited mobility through a unified hub built for customization by the player.

”

—Donald Burlock

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C U R A T O R ’S CHOI CE

HOM E

Curator’s Choice selected by Marc Greuther, Chief Curator, The Henry Ford

Level Touch - The Invisible Smart Lock

A HIDDEN SECRET “It almost looks un-designed in that only the homeowner would know it is there.”

—Marc Greuther

evel Touch is a smart lock that cleverly makes the technology invisible. To unlock the door to your house, simply touch your finger to the lock. (You can also use a keycard, an app, your voice, or a regular key.) Level locks are designed to disappear, not interfere. Glancing at the Level Touch, you’d never know that there are electronics hidden inside. Details matter. For those who want to incorporate smart technology into their home, they don’t want a visitor’s first impression to evoke notions of the clunky, unsophisticated keycard pads ubiquitous in offices the world ’round. With Level Touch’s discreet technology, homeowners are able to maintain the design integrity of their home. And it is offered in several high-quality finishes to match different personalities and home styles. It was built upon the Level Bolt platform (a 2021 IDEA Gold winner). Both are cleverly engineered to hide the battery inside the bolt mechanism. With Level Touch, the designers found a way to pack even more technology into the same footprint as a traditional lock with miniaturized components sitting in the lock face. This reduces the overall

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size, making it look like a “normal” lock. The technology also extends outside the lock. It is compatible with Siri, Amazon Alexa, and Nest. You can share access to your home with anyone, from anywhere. You can even create one event pass for everyone to use. Level Touch was built for life. It features a combination of 440C stainless steel and strengthened metal alloys and is certified BHMA AAA to meet the highest industry standard for security and durability. It uses a six-stage stainlesssteel gearbox that’s both powerful enough for the toughest conditions and efficient enough to deliver over a year’s worth of battery life from a single CR2 battery. With its high-quality materials, Level Touch can last a lifetime while having a big impact on home security. By combining expertise in designing products for the home, such as home furnishings and consumer technology, the design team behind the Level Touch created a product that is long-lasting in both its durability and aesthetic expression, a product unique within this market category. Designed by Feiz Design Studio in collaboration with Level Home Inc.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

J U RY CHAI R ’S AWAR D

P EOPLE’S C H OIC E

M ED IC AL & H EALTH

Jury Chair’s Award selected by Mary Beth Privitera, FIDSA, IDEA 2021 Jury Chair

Eargo Neo Hearing Aids and Charger Case

LIKE MAGIC

“The design of this product represents the future of many medical devices. It is based

on self-diagnosis with back-end service design aimed at walking the consumer through product use.

”

earing loss significantly impacts quality of life. It obstructs interpersonal communication, which can strain relationships with family and co-workers. This often leads to social isolation, stigmatization, and depression. The Eargo Neo is set of a sensitively designed invisible hearing aids that, in many ways, mimic common earbuds—so users don’t have to feel self-conscious. Over 38 million Americans suffer from hearing loss, but less than 30% own hearing aids. Social stigma, limited accessibility, and high cost prevent a majority of the population with hearing loss from seeking help. Eargo seeks to upend these dynamics. Eargo Neo is a set of in-canal hearing aids that are virtually invisible. It bypasses the issue of stigma with itsin-canal design and comes in a smaller, sleeker package than previous generations. Combined with the new Flexi Palm silicone tips, it provides greater comfort and audio fidelity than its predecessors. The Flexi Palm suspends the Neo device in the ear canal, enabling natural airflow and preventing occlusion, a problem found in many other hearing aids. It also provides richer, more natural sound quality, and better audibility, as well as improved spatial awareness and feedback cancellation. It comes with a portable charger case that protects and charges the hearing aids when not in use. The charger case features a simplified charger cradle and interface for easy, intuitive use. Fully charged, Eargo Neo can operate continuously for 16 hours and last a whole day. A quick-

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—Mary Beth Privitera

charge feature gives customers three hours of use with a 30-minute charge. A companion mobile app allows users to customize sound profiles, and Eargo hearing health professionals are available to provide personalized virtual support. Eargo empowers individuals to take control of their hearing health and reengage with their surroundings. In the United States, hearing aids are traditionally distributed through hearing clinics. The traditional fitting process for hearing aids is lengthy and inconvenient. Multiple in-clinic appointments are required for assessment, fitting, ongoing adjustments, and maintenance, adding additional costs. With Eargo, customers can assess their hearing via an online hearing test, consult highly trained hearing professionals, and purchase Eargo hearing aids from the comfort of their own home. By selling directly to customers via online channels and offering virtual hearing consultation and telecare support, Eargo gives customers more control over their hearing health. Plus, Eargo’s customer-centric model allows the company to offer high-quality hearing aids at approximately half the average cost of a pair of hearing aids purchased through traditional channels. Designed by Jonathan Aase, Alice Eamsherangkoon, Thomas Bergner, and Michael Barrett of Eargo, Inc. for Eargo, Inc.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

A U T O M OT I V E & T R ANSPO RTATION

Hyundai IONIQ 5

CHARGING INTO THE FUTURE

he IONIQ 5 is a midsize compact utility vehicle, the first in Hyundai’s new IONIQ brand dedicated to battery electric vehicles (BEV). The IONIQ 5 is built on a BEV architecture called E-GMP (electric-global modular platform), enabling it to have unique proportions on an elongated wheelbase. With its strong performance, ultra-fast charging, advanced connectivity, and driver assistance, the IONIQ 5 offers the ultimate driving experience while ensuring safety. With its eco-friendly design and material selection, the IONIQ 5 demonstrates Hyundai’s vision for electric vehicles of the future: that the function of a car should expand beyond the car itself to society, taking responsibility for social issues such as environmental pollution. The exterior styling lends a commanding presence. The front bumper is defined by an eye-catching V-shape that incorporates distinctive daytime running lights, which provide a light signature unique to the IONIQ 5. These small pixel-like clusters also appear at the rear of the vehicle. On the sides, auto-flush door handles provide clean surface styling and enhance aerodynamic efficiency. The front and rear forms of the vehicle merge together at the doors. The strong C-pillar shape makes the IONIQ 5 clearly identifiable from a distance. The IONIQ 5 stands apart from other midsize compact utility vehicles, especially those with internal combustion engines and conventional steer-by-wire systems, because the E-GMP enables a flat floor where the batteries are

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stored. A flat floor lends more flexibility in the interior design and extra legroom. Its spacious interior feels like a home away from home. The Universal Island redefines the center console, offering greater functionality than a static storage box. This movable console complements the simple center fascia with the gear selector located behind the steering wheel. Having a sliding console allows passengers to not only enjoy more flexibility but also freely enter and exit the cabin on either side when parked in a narrow spot. Sustainability is at the center of IONIQ’s brand vision, which can be found throughout the vehicle in eco-friendly materials and nature-inspired colors. Many of the interior touchpoints―the seats, headliner, door trim, floor, armrest―use such sustainably sourced materials as recycled PET bottles, plant-based (bio PET) yarns and natural wool yarns, eco-processed leather with plant-based extracts, and bio paint with plant extracts. The IONIQ also offers fast charging. With a 350-kW charger, the IONIQ 5 can charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. It also provides an innovative V2L function that allows customers to freely use or charge any electric device, such as electric bicycles, scooters, or camping equipment, serving as a charger on wheels. Designed by Hyundai Design Center

“A much-anticipated new level of excellence in the automotive design world. ” —Donn Koh

INNOVATION FALL 2021

A U T O M OT I V E & T R ANSPO RTATION

ST-One ST-One is a 20-inch shaft-drive foldable intelligent e-bike. It was developed to provide a short-distance travel tool for urban users. The whole vehicle is composed of less than 10 modules. It replaces the traditional chain drive with a maintenance-free shaft-drive design, giving users a much smoother and safer riding experience. The built-in smart sensor detects the riding terrain in real time and adjusts the power output accordingly. With the introduction of a pressure casting technique, the vehicle is more impact-resistant and stronger. It was designed for easy manufacturing and easy maintenance while reducing the waste of raw materials. Designed by Fan Feng for HONGJI

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Uber Beacon The Uber Beacon is a simple and effective tool designed to make the rideshare experience more effective and seamless. It is Uber’s latest dashboard-mounted visual communication device that helps drivers and riders find one another faster and more reliably. The sensor technologies provide more precise pick-up and drop-off locations. Its bright U-shaped light makes Uber car recognition a snap, even in bad weather. The light’s color can be personalized on your app, or riders who are colorblind can set it to flash at a certain rate. The interior-facing LED matrix display can give riders safety tips, such as “wear your seatbelt,” “exit curbside,” or “watch out for cyclists.” Designed by Dan Harden, IDSA, Elliot Ortiz, Britt Jensen, and Kellee Kimbro of Whipsaw Inc. and Monina Dolan of Uber for Uber

INNOVATION FALL 2021

A U T O M OT I V E & T R ANSPO RTATION

1. Alpha 85S Jump Starter The Alpha 85S was developed to help users jump-start their vehicle even in extreme environments and even when the car’s battery has completely run out. It reliably functions down to -40 degrees Celsius. It features a robust and compact design with 2,000-ampere high-rate batteries. The friendly, functional interface makes operation simple and efficient. The 20,000mAh high-capacity battery cell can support the power supply requirements for peripheral products (mobile phones, tablets, air pumps, etc.) and supports starting 8.5-liter gasoline and 6.0-liter diesel models. People who live in extremely cold regions no longer need to worry about starting their car. Designed by Yang Wang of Industrial Design Center for Aukey Technology Co., Ltd.

2. NEOLIX X3 The NEOLIX X3 is a full-stack L4 autonomous vehicle. It features multiple radar and vision capabilities and is equipped to guarantee L4 autopilot capability. The rounded shape and aerodynamic body design reduce the cognitive pressure of new users to ensure that the NEOLIX X3 interacts with consumers easier. The intelligent battery system allows for 24/7 operations, and the modular design powered by AI capabilities can adapt to multiple scenarios. The large multi-touch screen, multi-mic array, loud volume speaker, and multi-channel interactive hardware are suitable for outdoor conditions. The NEOLIX X3 can be easily used and maintained through an app on a mobile device. Designed by Yang Zhe, Bian Qingqiu, Wang Chao, and Si Getai of NEOLIX

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I D E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

IDEA 2021 Jury Chair Mary Beth Privitera, PhD, FIDSA | University of Cincinnati | HS Design, Inc. Mary Beth Privitera, who has worked in the medical device industry since 1988, is widely known as an expert in the application of human factors in medical product design. She is an associate professor at the University of Cincinnati and works collaboratively among the Colleges of Medicine, Engineering and Design. She is also the director of the Medical Device Innovation and Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Cincinnati and a principal at HS Design, responsible for human factors and research. Additionally, she serves as faculty and co-chair of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation’s Human Engineering Committee. She has worked in the areas of endovascular neurosurgery, cardiology, general and vascular surgery, wound healing, temperature management, and central access devices. Her current research focuses on applied ergonomics, design research, and organic shape development in Nitinol. She has been associated with more than 30 product releases and holds several patents. She authored Contextual Inquiry for Medical Device Design, promoting best practices for phasezero medical device development. Privitera chaired the second annual IDSA Medical Design Conference in Tampa, FL, in 2015. Jacklyn Ady, IDSA | Escalade Sports As product manager at Escalade Sports, Jacklyn Ady is responsible for identifying and applying product design trends to create and develop innovation and newness across billiard categories. She leads collaborative teams, influences styling, drives design, and manages product lines across the division. She is also an adjunct instructor at the University of Evansville in the MS in leadership, MS in organizational leadership,

and the ChangeLab programs. She is a graduate of the University of Cincinnati with a BS in industrial design and holds a master’s degree in business administration from the Nagoya University of Commerce and Business in Japan. Outside of teaching and work, you can find her wakesurfing, snowboarding, or cycling, preferably mountainside. Casper Asmussen | Above Casper Asmussen is the co-founder and design director of the Scandinavian innovation agency Above. His work spans industrial design, UX, and strategy for clients such as Google, Bang&Olufsen, Facebook, Sonos, IKEA, and Iittala. His approach is holistic and UX-driven with a twist of Scandinavian minimalism on top, as exemplified by his work on the Nokia N9/Lumia range and the Aether Cone. Erika Avery, IDSA | GE Appliances Erika Avery is an industrial designer on the GE Appliances Industrial Design Operations team. She leads the end-toend design function for all commercial and retail air-conditioning products, as well as supporting the air and water business. A native of Auckland, New Zealand, her studies brought her to the United States, where she graduated from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a Bachelor of Industrial Design and a minor in business administration. Her passion is focused on the intersection of user-centric design and business, influencing her approach to designing products that fulfill the needs of expansive and evolving markets. She has been an active member of IDSA since 2014. While at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, she served as the IDSA Student Chapter president in 2015–16.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

BR A N D I NG

Century Brand Identity Program

FROM FASHION FORWARD TO PLANET FORWARD “Century’s marketing and social channels reflect an admirable commitment to

”

inclusivity, with the families they portray being as diverse as the customers they serve.

—Gaby Brink

entury designs car seats, strollers, highchairs, and play yards with one overriding goal: to create a happy world for the next century. That means supporting parents who sometimes feel overwhelmed by all that goes into raising children. This new brand identity program celebrates parents, letting them know that Century is there for them with simple, affordable, and uniquely sustainable baby gear. The new brand personality was infused into all aspects of content development, from product names and packaging to web content and social media. Century launched its first product nearly 60 years ago: the TotToter baby carrier. And since then, it has pioneered many industry firsts, like the Century 580 Car Seat in 1986, the first combination infant car seat and carrier. The relaunched and reinvigorated Century brand is focused on babies, their parents, and the planet. The intention behind the new brand identity program was to connect with parents across every touchpoint with a bit of humor while being informative and sincere. Primary shapes and bright colors were used to make the brand feel playful and welcoming, like being in your happy place. The packaging was designed to spark joy and highlight effortless functionality on the shelf in retail or on e-commerce platforms. The visual communication is reinforced by Century’s commitment to sustainability, which resonates deeply with the company’s customers. In fact, two-thirds of Gen

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Z parents are more likely to purchase products made with recycled materials. Surprisingly, the market has been void of baby product manufacturers willing to commit to sustainability. Century partnered with TerraCycle in a program that allows parents to easily recycle their Century products the moment their child outgrows them. The Happy Planet Collection of gear also uses fabrics made with recycled water bottles. The packaging even shows parents how to recycle the box the products come in. Other components of the brand messaging include simple, inclusive, affordable, and stylish. A simple product is less overwhelming for parents. The products were designed to be seamless, cohesive, and all-in-one. That way, parents aren’t overwhelmed with a houseful of baby odds and ends. Simplicity also opens the door to greater affordability and sustainability. As one of the most diverse generations in American history, Gen Z cares deeply about inclusivity. Across every media channel, the brand reflects families from all backgrounds. And the products were priced knowing that Gen Z parents prioritize experiences over the amassing of things. Plus, with the widening income gap brought on by COVID 19, affordable brands matter now more than ever. Designed by Newell Brands Design

INNOVATION FALL 2021

BR A N D I NG

idus Started in 2014, idus is the largest online marketplace for the handmade market in Korea. It brings together artists and customers, creating a culture the supports Korea’s growing handmade goods industry. The new branding created diverse stories with the slogan “make your story,” along with flexible graphic motifs. The motifs are based on the characteristic properties and movements of thread, a metaphor that penetrates the entire brand. It symbolizes the notions of handmade and connection, reinforcing its function as a platform that connects artists and customers to celebrate and appreciate handmade goods. Designed by Kiyoung Jung, Doohee Lee, Taehee Lee, Hyuncheol Ahn, and Rang Choi of Huskyfox for idus

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The Korean Air X Hyundai Card Credit Card Design The Korean Air X Hyundai Card credit card is the first exclusive airline credit card in Korea. It was created in a partnership between Korean Air, Korea’s largest carrier, and Hyundai Card, Korea’s major credit card company. The card comes in four types: 030, 070, and 150, which are reminiscent of flight numbers, and “The First,” which caters to premium members. Various motifs are applied to the cards to depict the thrill of travel, inspired by a boarding pass, a luggage tag, fuselage rivets, and airplane wings. The premium card depicts views from an airplane window, such as a sunrise, sunset, and aurora. Designed by Richard Sungmin Ahn, Kyeongha Lee, Doonam Lee, and Taeseok Choi of Design Lab of Hyundai Card

INNOVATION FALL 2021

BR A N D I NG

MX BOOST MX BOOST is the new name for the M and X credit cards from Hyundai Card. This project evolved the existing brand image focused on minimalism and simplicity to one that expresses diversity and flexibility to embrace the younger millennial generation. It was also designed to provide members a comprehensive user experience that allows them to experience the brand online and off. MX BOOST features 12 different card designs, brand merchandising (such as gummy bears, scented candles, tote bags, and translucent jackets), and dedicated retail spaces. People can choose the card design that most reflects their taste. Designed by Hyundai Card Design Lab

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I D E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Gaby Brink | Tomorrow Partners

Grayson Byrd, IDSA | Comcast NBCUniversal

As the founder and chief designer of Tomorrow Partners, Gaby Brink is the leader and design visionary of this San Francisco Bay-based branding and innovation firm. Her passion for design as a catalyst for positive change is the driving force of Tomorrow’s worldview. A hands-on leader, she curates and mentors Tomorrow’s interdisciplinary team, oversees the creative process, and builds lasting partnerships with clients. Brink shares this same vision and spirit with the global design community. An internationally recognized designer and serial entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience, she fosters dialogue and action around the industry’s role in designdriven social change and sustainable growth. She frequently speaks on human-centered design and innovation for the impact economy and produces conferences and convenings around these same topics.

Grayson Byrd, an industrial design manager at Comcast NBCUniversal, is an award-winning industrial designer based in Philadelphia. Before joining Comcast’s Experience Design team, he lived and worked in San Francisco designing consumer electronic and professional products for Dolby Laboratories. Originally from the south, Grayson cut his teeth at various design agencies before joining Coca-Cola to design packaging, equipment, and environments. His experience working for global consumer brands and partnering with the likes of AMC, Sam’s Club, and Home Depot has contributed to his passion for design strategy with scaled impact. Byrd earned a BS in industrial design from the Georgia Institute of Technology and currently teaches as an adjunct professor in the Westphal College of Media Arts and Design at Drexel University.

Donald Burlock, IDSA | Amazon Lab 126

Matthew Carlson | Adobe

Donald Burlock is a creative leader and experiential designer based in the Bay Area. He has helped crossfunctional teams evolve alongside brand experiences, be they appbased, hardware, or installations. His design experience includes working with global brands, such as GE, Coca-Cola, Dolby, and Cisco, and many startups in Silicon Valley. Prior to coming to the Bay Area in 2013, Burlock spent time working at IDEO as a product designer. He is currently the lead device designer at Amazon Lab 126.

As the design director of the creative cloud experience at Adobe, Matthew Carlson works on the services and content that help Adobe’s users explore new apps and achieve their creative goals. He has a special passion for illustration, typography, and the intersection of AI and creativity. Prior to Adobe, Carlson was the design director of business products at Twitter, design manager of business products at Facebook, and principal of experience strategy and design at Hot Studio, an innovation consultancy in San Francisco. He has spent time shaping brand experiences at the industrial design consultancies Design Continuum in Boston and One & Co. in San Francisco. He has created groundbreaking brand and interactive experiences for IBM, UPS, Sprint, Zinio, Marie Claire, Seventeen, ReadyMade, AOL, Intel, Microsoft, and Robert Mondavi.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

CHI L D RE N’S PR ODUCTS

CLOVA Lamp

SWITCH ON READING “The primary lighting feature complements the assistive technology with clear intention, making this inclusive by design.” —Liana Charles

ooks are the most effective investment in a child’s future. Reading stimulates a child’s brain and fosters good judgment skills. CLOVA Lamp is more than just a traditional LED light. It reads picture books to kids to help them develop an interest in reading, just like if an adult were reading to them. Kids between 6 and 7 need to be read to frequently to foster their thinking skills, concentration, imagination, and creativity. With more and more time spent on screens absorbed in a life of instant gratification and visuals, kids need extra encouragement to read. And not all parents can read books to their kids as often as is necessary. The CLOVA Lamp fills this gap. CLOVA reads kids their favorite books and those required by school, helping them to cultivate a reading habit. Books read by kids are saved by the CLOVA Lamp and tracked by the app. Parents can use the app to see their child’s reading patterns and habits and gain insight. This will lead parents to choose the right books for their kids and inspire them to expand their reading spectrum. To have CLOVA read a book, place the book underneath it and select the “Read” button or use a voice command. CLOVA uses image recognition technology and optical character recognition technology to detect text and images captured by the camera on its head. CLOVA speaks in a natural voice using voice synthesis technology to create a more engaging experience for listeners.

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It will also answer all sorts of questions across many topics in our daily lives, like the weather, music, shopping, food, and films. When a child asks CLOVA a question, the AI answers right away, helping them learn. It also offers kids’ content and smart-home features. With its foreign language study assistant, children can practice speaking foreign languages by mimicking the lamp’s pronunciation and recording their speech to check themselves. Children can ask and learn a certain Korean word or expression in English, Japanese, or Chinese from the lamp with a native speaker’s voice. As for brightness, CLOVA Lamp senses the brightness of the surroundings and chooses the best lighting from five different modes. The color-temperature settings come in four modes: reading, creativity, learning, and sleep. The design of CLOVA provides a cute, friendly presence for kids. Instead of the metallic or mechanical feel of traditional lamps, it uses plastic materials that provide a soft texture. Thanks to materials that are resistant to shocks and scratches, it is also highly durable. The proportions of the lamp were designed in a balanced manner for convenience and safety. Each detail, like the button’s position and size, was carefully considered with kids’ intuition in mind. Designed by NAVER Corp.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

CBR H IA LN DD RE I NG N’S PR ODUCTS

Ergobaby Aerloom FormaKnit Stretch Baby Carrier Aerloom by Ergobaby is an engineered knitted baby carrier that is made to move, stretch, and fit parents and their daily lives. Drawing inspiration from the activewear industry, Aerloom features FormaKnit fabric made with seamless knitting technology and postconsumer recycled polyester. Aerloom’s streamlined design results in a flexible yet supportive baby carrier that delivers all the performance of a traditional baby carrier while redefining the way parents think about comfort and purpose. It offers a custom fit, is lightweight, has built-in airflow, and reduces the impact to the parent’s body. Designed by Rodney Telford, Kevin Scheiferstein, Juan Godoy, Jennifer Beinash, Claire Warfield, Phoebe Chuang, and Demetrius Romanos of the Ergobaby Design & Development Team

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C H I L D R E N’S PR ODUCTS

1. All Star Wood Cot Bed The All Star Wood Cot Bed overturns the idea that furniture for young children must be short-lived. The Cot Bed can be configured in 12 different ways: as a newborn baby bed, a playpen, a safety gate, a bed guard, a family bed, a junior bed, a junior couch, a junior desk, a wagon for toddlers, storage, a small bed for newborn babies, and a diaper changing table. One inspiration behind the design was to provide high-quality, long-lasting furniture that will help parents save money by eliminating the need for them to buy new furniture as their child grows. Safety was also a top priority. Designed by Jinhyi Choi and Ja Hyung Gu of Ggumbi.

2. Juno Bassinet - Pop-up bed for newborn babies Bassinets are essential for newborns, but the majority are immobile and are made of synthetic materials that are environmentally toxic. The design intent was to provide a safer, more natural solution for parents. Parents can set up with Juno pop-up bassinet within seconds and move it anywhere around the house so they can keep their baby nearby. It is made of certified sustainable materials, which means it is fully recyclable. Inspiration came from the Finnish baby box, leading to a new generation of bassinets that push the world toward a more positive future. Designed by Herman Chan, IDSA, and Thomas Duester, IDSA, of Formfuture for Juno Baby LLC

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O M M E R CI AL & I NDUST R I A L

Apex Exosuit

POWER, AGILITY, AND STRENGTH “Thoughtfully considered, it lets the power of ergonomic design and biomechanical advantage shine without the complexities of electronics. ” —Emily Hoffmann

he Apex Exosuit is a soft, textile-based passive backassist exoskeleton designed for workers in the logistics industry. It weighs less than 4 pounds and takes 50 pounds of strain off a user’s back muscles. Rather than using motors or batteries, it is powered by a combination of mechanical hardware and elastic latex bands that act like artificial muscles. The modular design accommodates 56 size adjustments, addressing a wide range of body shapes and sizes, including gender-specific fit options. While there are many exoskeletons in the market, Apex is the only one tailored to function comfortably on women’s bodies. Women make up a considerable portion of the logistics industry, and the goal was to ensure that the design reflected the diverse workforce. Initial research showed that one of the pain points for the logistics industry is missed work due to pain and injury, leading to missed work and a high turnover rate. The turnover rate in the warehouse industry is ranked as one of the highest across all industries, which leads to a cycle of understaffed teams, lost time spent training new workers, and increased costs for the company. Back injuries are the most common injuries, compromising worker health, wages, and productivity. Overexertion is the leading cause of work-related musculoskeletal disorders that contribute to claims and escalating medical costs. In fact, according to one study, back pain costs the US healthcare system over $100 billion a year for medical care, worker compensation payments, and time lost from work. Apex consists of a universal back component that houses a clutch and switch to engage and disengage the

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system. The back is then customized with straps, thigh sleeves, and bands to fit the individual user. For example, the women’s straps have a curvilinear shape with an open chest design to accommodate women’s bust and narrower shoulders. The open front design also allows for a greater range of movement and is designed to accommodate women who physiologically have a greater Q-angle as compared to men. Finally, the textile-based garment system allows for comfort and breathability. Typically, the inside of a warehouse is not air-conditioned, and summertime heat can be very uncomfortable. To increase airflow, the back is designed with a foam offset pattern with small channellike spaces between the worker’s back and the garment, allowing heat to escape and air to be ventilated for evaporative cooling. The approach behind Apex was to empower logistics workers and develop an easy-to-understand, intuitive product. This led to its distinctive backpack-like configuration, which is easy to put on and take off. The product’s athletic look gives users a sense of power, agility, and strength. Performance textiles widely used in active sportswear and outdoor gear deliver both function and comfort. The black and yellow color scheme invokes a sense of safety and durability. And Apex’s competitive price point means that companies can equip more workers with an assistive device rather than a select few. Designed by Rebeccah Pailes-Friedman, Ryu Tomita, Paul Reamey, and Aybuke Sahin of the Interwoven Design Group and the HeroWear team

INNOVATION FALL 2021

CO M M ER CI AL & I NDUST R I A L

BDR100-20

AT THE READY “An inspiring example of an authentic problem solved in a novel way that demonstrates

a keen understanding of user needs that are answered by an impressive sustainable

”

modular system.

—Emily Hoffmann

ith the BDR100-20, construction waste that was once brought to the landfill now has new life, being kinder to the planet in the process. The BDR100-20 is a mobile construction-waste recycling system. It crushes, screens, meters, mixes, presses, and molds construction waste, quickly transforming it into bricks. The bricks are suitable to use on-site for the garden and nonbearing walls. This one-stop recycling process can bring considerable economic benefits to users. By repurposing construction waste, it saves disposal, recycling, and transportation costs—not to mention reduces the consumption of natural resources. Existing mobile construction waste treatment stations are monofunctional. The BDR100-20 integrates the traditional crushing production line and the traditional brick production line into one piece of equipment. Due to its small footprint, mobility, and readiness to work, it can rapidly and easily move between construction sites and quickly adapt to different needs. Data shows that each unit can cover five to six residential construction sites. It can recycle 3 tons of construction waste per hour, producing 6,000–7,000 bricks per day. Among Country Garden Holding’s construction

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projects over the course of a year, it reuses 3 million tons of construction waste and reduces carbon emissions by 5,000 tons. The BDR100-20 features a high degree of automation. The intelligent palletizing system saves labor and improves efficiency. In order to ensure efficiency, its functional units are integrated into a simplified, well-organized whole with the separate processing and manufacturing steps arranged linearly. Transparent acrylic surrounds the transport belt so the operations can be easily monitored. It also provides many benefits for workers. The BDR10020 improves the work environment of the job site, reduces the workload of employees, and also reduces the threat to workers’ health. In order to mitigate dust leakage, the transport belt unit and the mixing and crushing unit are fully enclosed. The negative-pressure dust collection system, coupled with the vibration-based breaking and vibrationdamping features, minimizes its impact both on the job site and on local residents. Designed by Rumiao Liu, Mingjie Wang, and Minliang Kang of Guangdong Bright Dream Robotics Co., Ltd. for Country Garden Holdings Co., Ltd.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

CO M M ER CI AL & I NDUST R I A L

Level Bolt - The Invisible Smart Lock

DISCREET SECURITY “With so many smart locks becoming available, this design stands out for its ultimate simplicity—and invisibility.” —Grayson Byrd

evel Bolt is an invisible smart lock. It was designed to be installed inside a door in minutes to transform an existing deadbolt into a smart lock using the existing bezels. Level Bolt lets homeowners get all the benefits of a smart lock and still maintain the design integrity of their home. It is not often that designers get asked to design an invisible product, a product that once installed hides nicely out of sight and does its duty humbly and effectively. This was exactly the brief presented to the design team by Level Home. The company wanted the designers to define the user experience and give form to the product. They came up with a high-quality, durable tool-like device that replaces the internal deadbolt lock mechanism. The design allows homeowners to preserve their original fittings while experiencing the conveniences of a smart lock. Level Bolt’s quality craftsmanship and design demonstrate a level of detail not found in other smart locks. Its unique puzzle piece interface ensures a secure fit in the

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door, and the battery is creatively hidden inside the bolt to make the occasional battery change simple. Engineered from the ground up for strength and durability, Level Bolt exceeds the highest industry standards and is stress tested to over 1 million cycles. Its mechanical operation is 100% available for reliable egress, never leaving anyone stranded. It uses a six-stage stainless steel gearbox that’s both powerful enough for the toughest conditions and efficient enough to deliver over a year’s worth of battery life from a single CR2 battery. Level Bolt lets homeowners open their home to anyone, from anywhere. With the app, they can use their phone to lock and unlock their door, share access with family and friends, and keep track of who’s coming and going. Guests can use their phone, voice, or even a plain old key to enter your home. Designed by Feiz Design Studio in collaboration with Level Home Inc.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

CO M M ER CI AL & I NDUST R I A L

Blackmagic Fairlight Desktop Console The Blackmagic Fairlight Desktop Console is a complete audio mixing surface that enhances the post-production workflows of Hollywood cinema, streaming television series, and live broadcasts. Costing just $3,595, it offers intuitive mixing of complex audio productions with a clear, familiar layout that empowers novices, smaller studios, and independent sound engineers. It features 12 custom motorized faders refined for optimal ergonomics, allowing subtle track adjustments that can be monitored on highresolution LCDs above each channel. Capacitive touch encoder knobs are completely silent, vital in sensitive audio studios. The bespoke search dial with adaptive electronic clutch provides fast, responsive navigation of complex timelines, while illuminated buttons are rated to over a million operations. Designed by Blackmagic Industrial Design Team

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Mirion AccuRad Personal Radiation Detector (PRD) Mirion AccuRad is a handheld personal radiation detector (PRD) designed for law enforcement, fire rescue, and other emergency responders. Designed to be carried on a first responder’s tactical belt or webbing, it automatically detects illicit manmade radioactive and nuclear sources, alerting the user when a threat is detected. Its localization technology provides directional-source pinpointing using a built-in radar screen so you can locate trouble faster. Built to be discrete, the AccuRad PRD has dual displays with an easy-to-read top screen that enables users to glance at the reading without removing the PRD from their belt, preventing unwanted curiosity and fear among people in public spaces. Designed by Mirion Technologies, Inc. and THRIVE

INNOVATION FALL 2021

CO M M ER CI AL & I NDUST R I A L

Safety Welder Safety Welder transforms traditional industrial welding equipment into a portable cordless welding pen for welding enthusiasts. The design ensures the safety and health of DIYers. The built-in filter purifies the harmful smoke generated during welding. The inlet glass tube enhances suction and prevents nonprofessional users from scalding themselves by accidentally touching the welding head. The tube can also function as a magnifying glass. Its cordless design extends the range of use. Designed by Guoqiang Wang, Jiahui Hu, Xiqiang Li, and Chen Zhao of Shenzhen Fonu Industrial Product Design Co., Ltd. for Ningbo Zuobiao Creative Technology Co., Ltd.

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C O M M E RCI AL & I NDUST R I AL

1. Geko G100 - Automatic Wall Putty Grinding Robot The Geko G100 is an intelligent wall-putty grinding robot that uses automatic path-planning and obstacle-avoiding technology. The grinding module was optimized with an adjustable rotational speed and grinding area. It features a powerful vacuum cleaner that can capture dust to increase worker health and the air quality of the surrounding environment. The high-quality carbon steel improves its structural strength and withstands the harshness of a construction site. The control system monitors its status and improves grinding efficiency through multimachine scheduling. As a smart, environmentally friendly grinding robot, it complements the construction industry’s trend toward automated, intelligent technology. Designed by Xin Li, Huihuan Li, Mingjie Wang, and Minliang Kang of Guangdong Bright Dream Robotics Co., Ltd. for Country Garden Holdings Co., Ltd. 2. Verkada Access Control Secure access plays a critical role in the safety, security, and day-today operations of businesses and organizations worldwide, adding a necessary layer of security for the protection of employees, assets, and facilities. Verkada Access Control combines hardware and software to regulate permitted entrance into buildings. The hardware consists of a door controller and a door reader. The controller has a simplified wiring layout and a removable cassette system, making it faster for installers to connect the controller to the doors and readers. The door reader was designed with a minimalistic approach for clear communication of reader states. Designed by Verkada Hardware Design Team

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NCE PT S & SPE CUL ATI V E DESIGN

CXN ONE

A DIGNIFIED TECHNOLOGY SOLUTION

XN ONE is a wearable speech-generating device designed at the intersection of state-of-the-art technology and maximum user comfort. It combines a brain-computer interface and augmented reality to help those with complex communication disorders. Exceedingly mobile and unintrusive, CXN ONE gives users a new level of freedom and personal independence while breaking down communication barriers, allowing users to feel more comfortable and confident connecting with those around them. CXN ONE was designed for tetraplegic users with severe speech disabilities, as well as individuals with progressive or acquired disabilities. The interface is compatible with those afflicted with ALS, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s, cerebrovascular incidents, and other acquired brain injuries where existing touch and/ or eye-tracking technologies are insufficient or too difficult to use. For too long, the assistive technology industry has relied on repurposed general consumer electronics, often years behind the cutting edge of what is possible—a disservice to those who could benefit from technology the most. Every individual deserves to communicate effectively and efficiently, regardless of their background or condition. With the advanced technology at our disposal today, it’s possible to build a streamlined tool for communication, access, and interaction. CXN ONE is a design that extends and enhances these capabilities to some of the most vulnerable and underserved members of society. From the outset, it was incredibly important to keep the user’s comfort in mind. Not only did this product need

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to be wearable for long durations without causing strain or discomfort, but it also needed to feel human. No intimidating or awkward piece of intrusive equipment would do. The form also needed to present incredibly complex technology in an intuitive, user-friendly manner. And it needed to look modern and stylish and give confidence to the wearer in public. Traditional virtual-reality headsets generally put all internal technology on the front part of the head, with a thick strap around the back of the head to ensure positional security. This traditional model distributes weight unevenly and inevitably causes discomfort and fatigue. The designers took special consideration in distributing the internal componentry evenly across the headset to provide a well-balanced product. CXN ONE’s clean forms and modern colorways create an approachable yet timeless aesthetic for uses far into the future. Materials and finishes were carefully considered for hygiene and comfort, and parting lines were intentionally placed for cleanliness. This emphasis on comfort, approachability, and sanitation allows users to focus on communicating clearly, forgetting the device is even there instead of worrying about its adjustment and care. CXN ONE offers integrated home automation and several predictive keyboard options. 4G connectivity provides full mobile functionality, and sentence-building tools provide fast user inputs. Bluetooth connectivity and built-in speakers and haptics provide additional layers of immersion and interaction potential. Designed by Jared Naito, Marco Vanella, Pete Ducato, and Ryan Olson of STEL for Cognixion

“An inspiring piece of industrial and user-centered design with an innovative

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application of technology that truly empowers its users.”

—Karl Hurn

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NCE PT S & SPE CUL ATI V E DESIGN

LOTUS - Next generation Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

A PORTAL OF WELLNESS

OTUS is a conceptual exploration of a next-generation neonatal intensive care unit. It offers a suite of solutions designed to enhance the neonatal intensive care experience to help families and clinicians provide personalized care. It features a clinical informatics platform that monitors and aggregates information across all devices and systems into one easy-to-use interface. This interface visualizes the holistic status of the baby to help clinicians make critical decisions and coordinate care between teams to improve outcomes. Premature babies are fragile and need the right environment and care delivery to grow and thrive. The integrative developmental care model is proven to improve outcomes, but currently no system holistically tracks and monitors all the core measures. Current patient care delivery is challenging due to fragmented data from disparate systems, overwhelming clinicians and preventing them from seeing a full patient overview. Complex clinical jargon and processes create a barrier for families to understand and participate in the care of their baby. LOTUS’s AI-powered clinical informatics platform aggregates data scattered across many systems into one place, eliminating the need for hunting and gathering, and provides it in an easily digestible format. The cognitive load on staff is reduced by personalizing the information according to their role. The main LOTUS user interface is a ring with the baby’s live image in the center. The icon around the ring represents the critical organs and the core measures in the developmental care model. This 360-degree view provides clinicians with a simple overview of the baby’s condition at a

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glance. The algorithm highlights which aspect of the baby’s development needs attention through a simple yellow and red color-coding. When more information is needed, the clinician can drill down to get detailed reports, numbers, and trend graphs. The interface also has a parental portal that makes the data easy to understand and relevant to the family so they can understand their baby’s condition and participate in care delivery. LOTUS’s sensing camera enables monitoring of the baby without attaching painful sensors to their fragile skin. The camera can monitor vitals, the sleep-wake cycle, pain, positioning, light exposure, and other environmental conditions. The adaptable environment of the neonatal intensive care unit enables the room’s lighting and atmosphere to be customized to support a baby’s developmental needs. It can also be adjusted for the family’s well-being or provide the right conditions for clinical procedures. Healthcare is a complex and fragmented landscape. One company cannot hope to deliver all the solutions by itself. We need to rely on partnerships and alliances to create an ecosystem of solutions that will benefit the end user. This is why LOTUS is an open, configurable, and scalable solution that is compatible with any vendor’s equipment. The LOTUS informatics solution can connect with and draw on any data source that is available in a hospital network to generate insights and recommendations. It can also directly display applications from other vendors and be displayed on any device. Designed by Philips Experience Design team – Cambridge MA, USA

“A wonderful example of inclusive design that insightfully balances the needs of its key stakeholders with an innovative UI and environmental design.”

—Karl Hurn

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NCE PT S & SPE CUL ATI V E DESIGN

Bizzy and Martian Bizzy and Martian are two robot concepts that came out of a Stanford Research Institute study. This project was intended to explore what home service robots could look like and how they would work. Bizzy and Martian are affordable robots designed to perform simple chores, like picking up laundry and toys, fetching drinks, wiping counters, and watering plants. They are compact moving appliances that roam around your house doing tasks you don’t want to do or can’t do. Each concept imagines advanced AI control and behavior-modifying machine learning that help them merge into your life like a pet. Designed by Akifusa Nakazawa and Dan Harden, IDSA, of Whipsaw, Inc. for S.R.I., Bizzy Robotics and Martian Robots

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Bot Public The Bot Public robot is designed to provide contact-free services in public spaces. It can be tailored to the needs of diverse spaces, from hotels to restaurants and offices. Economies of scale cannot be achieved if robots for different spaces have to be produced separately. As such, Bot Public can be applied to a variety use scenarios, such as serving, delivery, and guide robots. Their witty and friendly facial expressions and way of speaking, as well as voice and touch interactions, help users develop a sense of closeness to and bond with them. Robots can be connected to an in-store system to fulfill the needs of customers and staff members and to provide an extensive range of services. Designed by Next Generation Design Team of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NCE PT S & SPE CUL ATI V E DESIGN

Mobile Window Mobile Window is a smartphone with an augmented-reality search function. It combines a transparent display and nontransparent display to form one panel that simultaneously provides the functionality of a smartphone and the usability of a transparent display. The augmented-reality search is capable of, for instance, providing current weather information when you point the phone to the sky. It can also provide translation and related information when you point the phone at the text you want it to read. Designed by Jaehyung Kim, Yong Seo, Kwanhee Lee, Daekyung Ahn, and Jiin Baek of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

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The Multi-Purpose Delivery Vehicle The Multi-Purpose Delivery Vehicle (MPDV) is an all-electric commercial and small-business solution designed to maximize productivity and return on investment. The MPDV will be priced starting at approximately $33,000, significantly less than its competitors. It will provide customers with the best-in-class total cost of ownership and class-leading cargo volume and customizable features. Over time, the MPDV will deliver cost savings compared to traditional combustion alternatives. Based on a highly versatile proprietary electric platform architecture, the MPDV will be offered in two initial size variants, with others to follow. Limited availability is scheduled to begin in 2022, with scaled production and launch planned for 2023. Designed by Richard Kim, Mike de Jung, Mark Smith, Arthur Martins, Cici Wang, and the Canoo Design Team

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NCE PT S & SPE CUL ATI V E DESIGN

1. M2 ICU - Mobile Medical Intensive Care Unit M2 ICU is a mobile medical intensive care unit concept that enables care providers to rapidly increase bed capacity and deliver optimized clinical care during pandemics through an advanced suite of integrated medical technology. The modular, scalable building platform is the result of a cross-disciplinary collaboration between frontline providers, technology engineers, data scientists, and architectural designers in response to the global COVID-19 pandemic. While the primary configuration concerns infectious disease workflow for critical care, the modular system could be utilized in other rapid-response situations. Designed by Philips Experience Design team – Cambridge MA, USA 2. Shield Long-term catheter use is a standard treatment that millions of people across Europe undergo each year. Urine is collected in an external drainage bag, which is typically held in a simple wire frame. These bags and frames cause many difficulties when handling and emptying the bag and often cause distress and stigmatization because of the visibility of up to 1.5 liters of urine. Shield is a simple, low-cost design that uses single-use disposable plastic sterilization tray wraps and drapes. It replaces a design that has not changed in 50 years. It provides a stable platform and an easy-to-empty and easy-to-handle drainage bag, and discreetly hides the contents from view. Designed by PDR

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I D E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Liana Charles, IDSA | Sonos Inc.

Youenn Colin | Fjord

Liana Charles is an industrial designer on the packaging experience team at Sonos, creating premium and sustainable packaging. Prior to Sonos, she worked at Newell Brands, a consumer goods company, focusing on upfront packaging innovation and e-commerce solutions. She earned a BFA in industrial design with concentrations in packaging science and communications and has found the sweet spot between art and science. Given her background, she is constantly challenging the norms of manufacturing while creating and validating innovative packaging within the consumer goods industry. Having always thought of design from a global perspective, she sees designers as advocates for consumers and believes that to incorporate empathetic design, they need to step out of their shoes and see the world around them.

Youenn Colin is the design director for connected products and spaces at Fjord, a design and innovation service from Accenture Interactive. There he imagines people’s future relationships with the digital and physical world. Thanks to the experience he gathered over the past couple of decades at Fossil Group, IDEO, HTC, One & Co, and Salomon, Colin focuses on exploring the intersection of physical, digital, and human experiences. Identifying valuable opportunities, envisioning solutions, and crafting thoughtful user experiences, Colin has engaged in category-defining work with diverse clients such as Amazon, the County of Los Angeles, Dell, Facebook, Faraday Bicycles, Fiat, Ford, Fossil, Google, HTC, Microsoft, Motorola, Nike, Renault, Salomon, Samsung, and SNCF. In the process, he has collected many international awards, patents, and publications.

Ian Coats MacColl | California College of the Arts

Aziza Cyamani, IDSA | Kansas State University

Ian Coats MacColl works as an industrial designer and product developer who stands at the intersection of design and commerce for consulting clients around the world. He was previously chief creative officer at Green Toys, vice president of design at Perfect Fitness, vice president of research and design at Wham-o, and managing director of IDEO San Francisco, a product development consultancy. Coats MacColl is a full professor of industrial design at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco and has taught in the program since 1992 with a specialization in sustainable design. He received undergraduate degrees in thermodynamics from Brown University and in industrial design from ArtCenter College of Design.

Aziza Cyamani is a multidisciplinary designer with experience in usercentered design, visual communication, product development, and sustainable systems. She has a bachelor’s degree in creative design with a specialization in media design from the Kigali Institute of Science and Technology and masters’ degrees in industrial design and sustainable environments from Iowa State University. She currently works as an instructor at Kansas State University, teaching industrial design studios and visual communication in the Department of Interior Architecture and Industrial Design. Her research interests center upon investigating the integration of crosscutting topics in design education, particularly focusing on semantics with objects in diverse cultures, as well as the social impact of postconsumer products. Her passion is using her design skills to create entities that promote equity for all.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NS U ME R T E CHNOL OGY

Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller

FOR THE WIN

“The gamer’s palette never looked so enticing. It mesmerized us with a landscape of ski-slope curves and summits..” —Donald Burlock

he Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is more than a game controller; it’s a high-performance tool. It was designed with the most passionate gamers in mind. Engineered for ultimate performance, customization, and durability, the Series 2 enables gamers to play like a pro. Building upon extensive research with gamers and what they need to perform better, the Elite Series 2 brings a thoughtful, customizable design to their fingertips. Gaming is often stigmatized, and the controller market is often seen as being light, cheap, and toy-like. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 takes pride in not catering to the social paradigm of gamers, treating the controller as a product and a necessary tool for gaming input. This takes the subjectivity of gamers out of the equation and looks to solve real problems in the gaming input experience. Through an elevated product expression and analysis of how, why, and what is designed, it elevates the product genre and consumer perceptions of it. The Series 2 brings a premium build quality, solid weight, durability, and performance-tool precision to the market. Vigorous restraint was used to give the Series 2 quiet confidence and power through its honest design and execution of materials, rather than through a superficial outward expression of a gamer. The design is authentic to its use without the addition of stereotypical gaming add-ons. The design lets the user-centric functionality and the mechanical materiality drive its aesthetics and usability. Highquality metallic components on the thumbstick assemblies and paddles are designed for durability and performance. The tone-on-tone black and grays help to further amplify

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its status as a performance tool that allows gamers to play better and to win. Customization is the foundation of the Series 2, enabling gamers to optimize the controller for the way they want to play. It provides over 40 customization options alone, including interchangeable thumbstick shapes and sizes, the ability to add up to four paddles for ultimate control, threeposition trigger switches for fast firing, and reengineered thumbsticks that allow for adjustable tension to match a gamer’s exact play style. With third-party and user-created accessories, customization of the Series 2 is endless, enabling everyone to play better. The Elite Series 2 has up to three custom digital profiles stored on the controller setup for different types of gameplay. Gamers can easily swap their controller setup from a racing profile to a first-person shooter profile with the click of a button. A rubberized material has been added where hands come in contact with the controller, giving players tactility, comfort, and breathability for extended gameplay sessions. Complementing the extended gameplay, the Elite Series 2 incorporates an internal battery that has 40 hours of continuous gameplay on a single charge. The case with an integrated charging dock offers a clean and flexible experience to charge, store, or show off your controller. When not in play, the controller can be rested on the charging dock. Designed by Microsoft - Windows and Devices Design Team

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NS U ME R T E CHNOL OGY

Curve Curve is a multiuse smart GPS tracker designed to fit into everyday life. Connected to the global Vodafone network using its built-in smart SIM, Curve lets people keep in touch with their favorite things from the Vodafone Smart App. Unlike Bluetoothonly trackers, Curve uses four different tracking technologies: GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular, and Bluetooth, so you can be far away and still get updates to your smartphone. Compact, lightweight, and waterproof, it features a removable utility band that can be swapped out for application-specific accessories. This interchangeable design creates a multiuse product platform that isn’t visually or functionally compromised by its many potential use cases. Designed by Matt Plested and Jim Blyth of The Fuel and Tom Guy, John Gutch, and Becki Lake of Vodafone Smart Tech

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Google Meet Hardware – Series One The Google Meet Hardware – Series One room kits were designed with personal interaction in mind. This cohesive cuttingedge video conferencing hardware enables digital meetings to be seamless, inviting, and more immersive. Aruliden and Google approached the creation of Series One from the belief that conferencing should be free of any mid-meeting technological hurdles or interference from messy wires and distracting inconsistent devices. It features a set of simple gestures, rounded edges, and minimal lines, resulting in a family of familiar, unassuming products that have reduced core elements to their purest form, ensuring more voices are seen and heard. Designed by Johan Liden, Nick Burrows, Brett Tom, and Bach Nguyen of Aruliden

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NS U ME R T E CHNOL OGY

PlayStation 5 The PlayStation 5 (PS5) comes with a wireless controller that features cutting-edge haptic technology and adaptive triggers that elevate the way players engage with games. With haptic technology, players can feel sensations, such as the grittiness of driving through mud, and with adaptive triggers, players can feel tension, such as from a bowstring, captivating senses like never before. The PS5 includes a custom processor with integrated CPU and GPU for high-fidelity graphics up to 4K, as well as an ultra-high-speed SSD with integrated I/O that delivers lightning-fast loading. PS5 also features 3D audio capabilities that allow games to offer a much deeper sense of immersion. Designed by Sony Interactive Entertainment

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QN900A, Neo QLED 8K As the flagship model of the Neo QLED 8K product line, the QN900A TV considers people, their surroundings, and even the environment in its design, transcending the realm of technological innovations. Its design features a nearly bezel-less infinity screen that eliminates the boundary between the screen and its surroundings. The Object Tracking Sound and Spacefit Sound features provide users with a dynamic viewing experience that goes beyond its visually appealing look. The base and the attachable One Connect box were crafted with the users and their space in mind to optimize the viewing experience. Designed by Jangho Kim, Jigwang Kim, Sangyoung Lee, and Jinsu Park of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NS U ME R T E CHNOL OGY

Xbox Series X The Xbox Series X empowers developers to deliver on their creative visions and dreams. It contains 12 teraflops of GPU power and enables new technologies and features like frame rates of up to 120 fps, hardware-accelerated Direct X raytracing, and variable rate shading. The Quick Resume function enables players to resume exactly where they left off across multiple titles, ensuring they can get right back to the fun in an instant. The Xbox Series X delivers next-generation gaming experiences with high fidelity, immediacy, precision, and accuracy. Designed by Microsoft - Windows and Devices Design Team

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Xbox Wireless Controller The Xbox Wireless Controller is a gaming input device that enables gameplay on any device. It easily pairs with Xbox consoles, PCs, and mobile platforms. Using feedback from gamers, the designers sculpted and shrunk some key surfaces to accommodate smaller hands while also improving comfort for players with larger hands. This expanded the range of target hand sizes from the 5th–95th percentiles to the 3rd–95th percentiles. It also improves performance with a directional pad (the D-pad) and features refined textures, lower input latency, and one-tap capture and share features. Designed by Microsoft - Windows and Devices Design Team

INNOVATION FALL 2021

C O NS U ME R T E CHNOL OGY

1. AlphaEgg SmartPen Q3 The AlphaEgg SmartPen Q3 is a language-learning tool that can help children quickly scan and query Chinese and English words. It has two main functions: scan written translations and scan voice translations. Compared with similar products, it offers a faster query speed, higher accuracy, and more comfortable human-computer experience. It uses a multimedia teaching approach. Books alone are slow and inefficient and are unable to provide pronunciation. Compared with mobile phones and other communication devices, it can make users more focused, preventing them from being distracted by entertainment options. Designed by Yuling Song, Chen Zhu, Debao Chu, and Maojin Wu of Hefei Toycloud Technology Co., Ltd.

2. Belkin BOOST CHARGE PRO 3-in-1 Wireless Charger with MagSafe 15W The Belkin BOOST CHARGE provides a complete solution for wirelessly refueling your iPhone, Apple Watch, and Apple Airpods at the same time—all with a single cable from a single AC wall outlet. The new magnetic technology for the iPhone 12 delivers seamless alignment and fast wireless charging every time for the easiest way to charge yet. The dock supports Nightstand mode for the Apple Watch to enable the alarm clock feature to operate while it charges. The architecture and layout of the Belkin 3-in-1 sets a standard for what MagSafe charging could be. Designed by Paer Saangloef, Ken Mori, Mitch Suckle, and Oliver Seil of Belkin for Belkin

3. FUJIFILM X100V The FUJIFILM X100V is the fifth generation of the X100 series of premium compact fixed-lens cameras. The X100V preserves the essence of the X100’s first 10 years while representing a big step forward in its evolution. Through an aesthetic that exudes excellence, outstanding image quality, and high performance, it brings the wonder of photography to users ranging from professional photographers to hobbyists. Implementing a newly developed aluminum manufacturing method, the top and bottom plates are milled from single pieces of aluminum, creating a classic camera body with clean, sharp edges while maintaining the series’ iconic design. Designed by Masazumi Imai of FUJIFILM Corporation 4. inSight Smart home technology has become one of the ways to improve the quality of life inside the home. For ordinary users, however, it can be cumbersome to install and set up such a system, causing many to give up. inSight is a whole-house AI housekeeper featuring a border-less touch screen with a unique knob. It can provide whole-house control, an entertainment system, security monitoring, property life services, medical services, and other functions to enhance the intelligent home experience. It is available in three sizes: 13.3, 10, and 5 inches. Designed by Hao Jiang and Shun Wang of Know Design Team for Beijing Ruying Tech. Limited

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5. Kandao Obsidian Pro The Kandao Obsidian Pro is a 360-degree film-level camera with two selectable focal distances and multiple aperture gears. Equipped with 8 APS-C CMOS, it can output 12K x 12K, 10bit 3D@30fps ultra-highresolution 3D panoramic video. With Kandao’s KDRaw encoding format and 14-bit ultra-precision image acquisition technology, the visual effect is extremely realistic and immersive. It features built-in nine-axis antishake IMU, GPS, Wi-Fi 6, a high-definition LCD touch screen, a 10 gigabit ethernet port, external 360-degree microphone reception, and support for in-cam 8K panoramic live. Designed by Tom Tam and Zhu Ping of KanDao Technology Co.,Ltd. 6. The Frame (2021 release) The Frame turns the TV into a true masterpiece, bringing a room’s wall to life. When the TV is off, rather than a black box, it turns the space into a gallery. The TV switches to art mode, displaying art from its own collection as well as works by world-renowned artists from numerous partner museums and galleries. The product supports brightness and motion-sensor technology. When no motion is detected, it turns off. The Frame comes with a customizable bezel available in different shapes and materials to best suit each user’s taste and décor. Designed by Jaeneung Lee, Diana Minsun Kang, Chulyong Cho, Sunyoung Kim, and Dongho Lee of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. 7. The Premiere (LSP9T) 4K Smart Triple Laser Projector The Premiere LSP9T is a cutting-edge 4K projector that supports laserpowered 4K picture resolution on a 100-inch or larger screen. Despite its compact size, it provides a large screen and surround sound to create an immersive experience, and the 4K laser projector supports stunning picture quality. The intrusive mechanical design of conventional projectors looks awkward in the center of a living room. The design of The Premiere considered various lifestyles and environments. Its soft silhouette, gentle edges, and monotone color, coupled with its fabric finish, do not impose on its surroundings, seamlessly harmonizing with any space when not in use. Designed by Sungil Bang, Junpyo Kim, Byungwook Kang, and Jigwang Kim of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

D E S I G N ST R AT E G Y

MX Fuel Equipment Strategy

ELECTRIFYING THE JOB SITE

he MX Fuel Equipment System strategy involved inventing, designing, and developing a new battery platform and charging device that provide power to six lightweight equipment products. The products share a new brand language, logo treatment, and user interface to communicate a cohesive family design across a diverse product offering. The strategy included robust research into a category of products never thought to be capable of being battery powered. After spending more than 10,000 hours with users on job sites around the world, considerable safety and productivity challenges were observed within the gaspowered and AC equipment product categories. Exposure to emissions, vibration, and noise continues to create health concerns for professionals in the construction trades. Common user problems range from gas headaches to numbness caused by excessive vibration. Workers also commonly deal with overloading breakers, voltage drops, and power cords that present cord-trip hazards that limit productivity and risk injury. Power tools in categories adjacent to lightweight equipment products have received considerable benefits from cordless technology innovations. The same cannot be said about light equipment. Milwaukee quickly identified the reason: Traditional cordless power tool batteries are simply not designed for the high demands of heavy tools and equipment. They are also not suited to the punishment tools are put through on a brutal job-site environment. The MX Fuel Equipment System is the result of many years of research and investment in new technology and the ground-up development of new batteries, motors, and

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electronics to provide the best cordless light-equipment experience. The MX Fuel Equipment System eliminates gas emissions and reduces the overall noise, vibration, and frustrations of gas maintenance that have been common on job sites for decades. The battery-powered system eliminates tripping breakers, voltage drops, and cord trip hazards. Milwaukee made sure the designs accommodated existing user behaviors and common equipment treatment with a focus on durability and clear usability. The newly designed battery platform features an integrated carry handle, battery fuel gauge, and rubber overmold that is five times more protective for greater impact absorption and durability. The clear, concise UI elements on each tool make them easy to use and soften the learning curve, allowing new users to quickly be productive and safe. The core benefit of the MX Fuel system is to make the toughest jobs safer, easier, and much less dependent on gas. Manipulating wood, steel, and concrete into a structure is hard work. And the pressure to do this work faster constantly increases. The MX Fuel Equipment System can help trade professionals increase their productivity and reduce the risk of hazards that affect their quality of life. It is poised to fundamentally change job sites everywhere by dramatically reducing the hazards and frustrations (like emissions, noise, and vibration) of the existing light equipment market that have dominated the marketplace for years. Designed by Milwaukee Tool Industrial Design Team

“MX Fuel doesn’t simply bring battery technology to an existing product line; rather, it addresses the very real daily challenges operators face in terms of both task

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completion and safety.

—Ian Coats MacColl

INNOVATION FALL 2021

D E S I G N ST R AT E G Y

Design Frame Perspectives on beauty differ around the world. Something that’s aesthetically pleasing in one region may not strike a chord in another. Therefore, it’s a challenge to design products that satisfy customers across the globe. Often, a design’s success will depend on cultural factors rather than objective aesthetics. The Design Frame project involved the study of aesthetic preferences from the company’s four major regional markets: North America, Europe, India, and South Korea. The team investigated which cultural factors should inform product design and produced videos, books, and data to help designers easily understand the results. This led to time and cost savings in the early stages of product development and helped designers understand the design languages of consumers in each region. Designed by Sohee Kim, Jidam Hong, and Yejin Jeon of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

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I D E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Keith Dandridge, IDSA | Garmin

Delroy Dennisur | Maven Design

Keith Dandridge is a senior industrial designer at Garmin, where he is currently designing products engineered on the inside for life on the outside. He believes good design is used to solve relevant problems, push engineering boundaries, and create enjoyable experiences for users. With experience ranging from front-end innovation to designing for manufacturing, he has experience delivering almost 30 products to global markets for brands such as Briggs & Stratton, Simplicity, Snapper, Vanguard Power, Ferris, Allmand, Remington, Rayovac, and VARTA. He holds an MS in product design and development management from Northwestern University and a BS in industrial design from Virginia Tech.

Delroy Dennisur is the co-founder of the Atlanta-based Maven Design, where he leads a team of designers to develop innovative design solutions that balance stylish elegance with business strategy. He brings an unrelenting commitment to crafting beautiful design experiences with minimal environmental impact for leading brands. Prior to co-founding Maven, Dennisur cultivated his expertise working for large agencies on projects ranging from healthcare to financial services to housewares products. He has experience delivering awardwinning solutions for such global brands as Motorola, 3M, American Express, Coca-Cola, Herman Miller, and Johnson & Johnson.

Shelton Davis, IDSA | Empathy Lab

Dora Drimalas | Hybrid Design

An experienced industrial and user experience designer, researcher, and team leader, Shelton Davis believes in our collective power to listen, understand, and create positive global change. After leading design at several startups (Chef, Operable, Terminus) and innovation labs (First Data and Nationwide Insurance), he recognized that something was missing: empathy support. In 2017, he channeled more than 10 years of human-centered innovation knowledge and his lifelong passion for personal connection into one huge group project: Empathy Lab. After a year of prototyping, testing, rinsing, and repeating, he launched the first and only training series designed to (re)condition our empathy muscles and empower collective success from the inside out. Inspired by his physical, mental, and emotional education as a competitive decathlete, the Empathy Decathlon is fully engaging, research-backed, refreshingly accessible, and 100% led by example.

Dora Drimalas is the co-founder and executive creative director of Hybrid Design in San Francisco. Her extensive background in brand strategy and graphic design has allowed her to work intimately on projects with some of the largest brands in the world, such as Nike, North Face, Rapha, Pinterest, Google, Apple, Samsung, Mohawk Fine Paper, Steelcase, TED Conferences, Lego, AT&T, Verizon, and Starwood Hotels. Her desire to create the most innovative work possible brings her to the intersections of design, content, and culture within multiple mediums. She is always looking for new answers.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

D I G I T A L I NT E R ACT I O N

Haptic - Making the Visually Impaired Feel the UI

TAPPING INTO THE WORLD OF TOUCH

aptic is a haptic feedback language and system that helps people who are visually impaired to more effectively use a smartphone. It produces vibrations to help users identify different types of UI elements on the interface and access key information. This solution is more in line with the way visually impaired people perceive the world. The goal of Haptic is to provide those who are visually impaired a better experience using their smartphone. Hearing is not the only sense visually impaired people use to navigate the world; they use touch as well. Nowadays, visually impaired people rely mainly on a screen-reader app to help them use their smartphone. This approach isn’t always effective, especially in noisy environments. It also doesn’t provide privacy and is disruptive to others nearby. To use a smartphone using a screenreading app, you first need to listen as the speech tags are read to you, confirm where your finger is, and doubleclick to confirm the selection. This process is slow and inefficient. It is easy to miss tags, and sometimes the voice is unintelligible. When outdoors or in a loud environment, like a restaurant, it is even more of a problem. Haptic feedback is more sensitive than sound, and users do not need to wait for the voice to finish reading to identify key information, which can improve the efficiency of use. It is also not disrupted by noise and the surrounding environment, and it does not disturb others. Haptic applies vibrations to the pathways of application scenarios most frequently used by those who are visually impaired, as determined by research, like controlling the

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playback when listening to music, locating the input box and taxi button when taking a taxi, and locating unread messages in the message list As a user’s finger moves across the screen, Haptic produces different types of vibrations to help the user quickly recognize different interface elements (like input boxes, buttons, and sliders), locate important operations more efficiently, and help the user complete operations when using a screen-reading app in a noisy environment. Haptic does not conflict with screen-reading apps. Rather, the two complement each other well, especially since haptics cannot express textual content. Haptic feedback is driven by advanced signals, not a rough vibration code set. The rhythm types are short and efficient and designed to ensure a comfortable and natural feel. Vibrations of different intensities represent different levels of interaction, and tactile metaphors help users remember the sense of touch. Xiaomi has already applied this solution to its smartphones with positive results. As haptic actuators become more widely used and haptic technology improves, the designers believe this solution will become more popular and mature, helping more visually impaired people be connected to the world. Haptic also opens up new ways of thinking about solutions to improve the use of touch-screen devices for visually impaired users. Designed by Liang Zhe, Zhao YiXin, Chen QiaoZhuo, and Jin Fan of Xiaomi Inc. and Gong Yi of AAC Technologies

“A groundbreaking design system for visually impaired people that places

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accessibility front and center.

—Marissa Louie

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D I G I T A L I NT E R ACT I O N

MIUI Nature Sound System The MIUI Nature Sound System brings lost natural elements back to daily life. It uses a natural sound library that includes over 100 iconic species recorded directly from four renowned natural habitats. The system relies on an intuitive, elegant UI to ensure easy comprehension and user interaction. Users can choose to use the classic well-tuned sound presets or customize their notification system on the user personalization page. The MIUI Nature Sound System aims to integrate the diversity and wonders of nature into a heavily used technical product that is functional, pleasant, and meaningful, raising public awareness about our relationship with nature. Designed by Zhang Hanyi, Ma Jinglu, Li Xiaodong, Iris Ouyang, and Jin Fan of the MIUI Design Team for Beijing Xiaomi Mobile Software Co., Ltd

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SmartThings Cooking Prolonged lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic moved dining from restaurants to the home. The SmartThings Cooking app was designed to help beginner cooks learn to cook a variety of dishes at home. This app goes beyond recommending recipes, helping users to explore different culinary lifestyles. It seamlessly proposes food-related content based on people’s personal profile and the occasion. It manages the entire meal-planning and preparation process, from menu selection to cooking. The weekly menu is presented with carefully curated recipes. Through the app, users can connect to online retailers to purchase necessary ingredients. Designed by UX Innovation Group, Digital Appliances, Samsung

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Khodi Feiz | Feiz Design Studio

Anne Goodman, IDSA | Radio Flyer

Khodi Feiz is an industrial designer who was born in Iran and grew up in the US. A graduate of Syracuse University, he moved to the Netherlands in 1990 to work for Philips Design. In 1998, he founded Feiz Design Studio, together with graphic designer Anneko Feiz-van Dorssen, specializing in product design, furniture design, and strategic design for companies such as Alessi, Artifort, Cappellini, Herman Miller, Logitech, Nokia, Offecct, and Samsung. His work has received numerous awards and has been featured in exhibitions and publications worldwide. The overriding inspirations for Feiz’s work can be summed up by clarity, concept, and context.

Anne Goodman is a senior industrial designer and research lead at Radio Flyer. In this role, she is responsible for leading the design research team and strategy and collaborating with other designers, engineers, and departments to bring innovative new products to market that bring smiles to families all over the world. In her five years at Radio Flyer, she has helped launch over 30 new wagons, scooters, tricycles, and ride-on toys. Goodman is passionate about products that foster connections between people, products, and places. She approaches design with empathy and curiosity at the forefront. Goodman holds a BFA in industrial design from the University of Notre Dame.

Danny Gelfman | Medtronic

Paul Greenhalgh | Team Consulting UK

After graduating cum laude with a BS in industrial design from the University of Cincinnati in 2002, Danny Gelfman joined RedGroup Product development in Minneapolis and spent a decade as a lead designer, working across industries with a primary focus on medical devices. In 2012, he joined the cardiac rhythm business at Medtronic in a human-factors role. In 2015, he started a corporate design and innovation consulting practice, working across Medtronic using human-centered design as a front-end tool to explore user needs and creative solutions. While he continues to deliver on selected projects, he also works on various initiatives to deepen design and human-centric practices at the enterprise level with support from executive leadership. At the end of 2020, he was promoted to distinguished designer, becoming the first designer at Medtronic to achieve this title.

Paul Greenhalgh has 20 years of experience in the development of medical devices. Since joining Team Consulting, he has worked for some of the largest pharma companies and the most innovative MedTech startups, developing groundbreaking solutions to improve the way healthcare is delivered. His experience spans a broad range of sectors, focusing on patientuse products, such as inhalers, injectors, and consumer medical devices, as well as professional-use systems, including point-of-care diagnostics, surgical devices, and larger critical-care systems for use in a clinical setting. As director of design at Team, Greenhalgh has grown a group of specialists in industrial design, graphics and information, digital UX/UI, and innovation, enabling them to create a coherent experience across all elements of a system and to tackle the complex human-centered challenges that medical design brings.

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DI G I T A L I NT E R ACT I O N

1. Fitbit Stress Management Experience Stress is on the rise with 77% of US adults reporting that they regularly experience symptoms of stress, according to the American Psychology Association. Though stress is widespread, those who suffer from it rarely have access to a stress management routine. While we can’t avoid stress, we can change how we respond to it to reduce its impact on our health. The Fitbit Stress Management Experience is a holistic platform to track and manage stress. Tools on your phone and smartwatch are readily accessible whenever you feel stressed. The experience includes a stress management score, reflection logging, guided meditations, and on-wrist apps. Designed by The Fitbit User Experience Team 2. Mobile Clinic Module Control UI/UX The Mobile Clinic Module is a mobile negative pressure isolation ward. It was designed to help hospitals with insufficient isolation beds in an emergency by being able to easily set up the ward wherever it is needed. It was driven by a co-creative process with medical staff and patients who will use the ward. The Mobile Clinic Module’s UI and system play a key role in allowing the ward to operate systematically and efficiently. In a complex and busy isolation ward, a well-designed UI/UX system helps medical staff work more productively. It also helps isolated patients to be treated in a more comfortable and emotional way. Designed by KAIST CIDR Lab. with MAKinteract Lab. and Next Interface Lab. Inition Inc

INNOVATION FALL 2021

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E NV I R O NME NT S

Blokable at Phoenix Rising

HOUSING DONE RIGHT

lokable at Phoenix Rising is an all-electric housing community in Auburn, Washington, that Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care will rent to residents who earn 30% to 50% of the area mean income. The project comprises two buildings with five studios and seven onebedroom apartments. The buildings have a 50- to 100-year useful lifespan, a state-of-the-art steel structural system for seismic integrity, and independent energy recovery ventilation that maximizes energy efficiency and lowers utility costs. According to Freddie Mac, the US faces a shortage of 3.3 million homes, a number that increases by 300,000 each year homebuilding lags. Meanwhile, housing itself is becoming a luxury good. Home prices are up 10.8%, as reported in the Wall Street Journal, as first-time buyers face more barriers than ever. The rental market is building more luxury units while middle-to-lower income families have fewer options, says Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies. The answer is to build more housing at a lower cost per door. But according to a 2020 survey by the National Multifamily Housing Council, housing is more expensive than ever to build. Costs are rising for all types of construction; 36% of respondents said they have been impacted by a lack of materials, and 57% reported construction delays. Blokable delivered the Phoenix Rising project at a cost of $1.5 million, which was financed through a partnership between Blokable and the State of Washington. The full project cost to the State of Washington was $125,000 per door, less than half of the average cost per door for the Seattle area in a region that faces a severe shortage of affordable housing. Phoenix Rising was designed and constructed using a vertically integrated modular (VIM) approach, which was pioneered by Blokable, to broaden housing access and affordability. VIM enabled Blokable to drive innovation

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throughout the design, planning, financing, permitting, manufacturing, delivery, and final assembly of Phoenix Rising. It increased quality and efficiency standards while having a final construction cost less than conventionally built affordable housing. A key component of Blokable’s VIM development platform is its proprietary Building System, which is designed to consistently produce high-quality, low-cost connected housing. Each volumetric “Blok” is a standard component that can be stacked, combined, and connected in multiple housing configurations. By manufacturing 90% of the building in the factory, Blokable can slash project time and costs and drive continuous improvements in energy efficiency and building performance. Traditional real estate development does not reward product innovation; it commodifies it. As many modular technology providers have discovered, the developers set prices and pocket any savings that flow from building more efficiently. The result is that housing never actually becomes less expensive to build; it only increases as demand becomes more acute. The answer is to own the entire development process. Because the VIM process is standardized, any new efficiencies gained can be transferred to the next project to lower development costs. Blokable’s vision is to convert continuous innovation into greater real estate equity, providing higher returns to market-rate real estate investors and lower-cost affordable housing that sets new standards for quality and efficiency. Designed by Nelson Del Rio, Aaron Holm, Timothy Miller, and Luke Olszewski of Blokable

“Through an incredible amount of investment, inspiring housing projects like this will

lead the way to a carbon-neutral future with inclusive design and responsible practices at their core.

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— Liana Charles

INNOVATION FALL 2021

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24 FRAMES OF LIGHTWELL 24 FRAMES OF LIGHTWELL uses a 50-year-old building in the Zhongshan Nanxi Commercial District of Taipei, Taiwan, to model potential solutions for renovating old walkup apartments to preserve the city’s urban fabric. Currently, most old apartment buildings across the city are being torn down and replaced with taller structures that not only block the light but destroy the sense of place. 24 FRAMES OF LIGHTWELL advocates giving old buildings a new life by bringing commerce, fashion, art, and design together. The solution created 24 frames that bring natural light into the interior of the building and produce playful interactions between visitors, their surroundings, and the artwork. Designed by Jasmin Yi-Chu Shih and Wei Ren Chen of JYCStudio

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E N V I RO N M E NT S

White Mountain Club House The White Mountain Club House is a community center in Nanjing, China, that features a landscape-style architecture. The design was inspired by the shape of the surrounding rolling hills. By placing the building partially underground and softening its solidity with undulating forms, it more harmoniously integrates into its urban environment. It also connects to existing underground passageways linked to surrounding communities, enhancing its accessibility. An underground transportation station is slated to be constructed nearby, which will further solidify the club as a crucial city node that stimulates public energy. Designed by Kris Lin and Anda Yang of Kris Lin International Design for Galaxy Group

INNOVATION FALL 2021

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F U R NI T UR E & L I G HTI NG

JEROME

FITTED TO SUIT “We were impressed with the ergonomics, consideration of user needs, thoughtful accessories, material durability, and safety features that children’s furniture requires.” —Ayako Takase

EROME is a children’s desk with adjustable height and tilt functions. It teaches preschool children how to sit at a desk using the correct posture before they enter school. Developing this essential habit will aid their studies in the future. As the child grows, the desk grows and adapts with them. Compact in size, JEROME can be easily placed in a child’s room. As a child gets older, the desktop can be adjusted to their sitting height, from the low chair a preschooler uses to the size of an adult chair. The desktop can also be tilted 45 degrees to suit various activities, from writing to drawing and reading, allowing the child to maintain the recommended posture at all times. It can also be used as a standing desk. The adjustment mechanism is powered so that even small children can easily modify the desktop. Parents who worry this could be dangerous for children can lock the height-adjusting feature.

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JEROME contains other safety features, such as curves and soft, smooth lines and edges. Urethane bumpers have been placed along the edges of the desktop and where fingers can be jammed. Environmentally friendly materials were used to increase safety for children. It uses E0-grade PB, which satisfies environmental hormone release standards. Each component is designed to be fully assembled or disassembled allowing every material to be recycled when disposing of the product. A power strip inset into the desk will support a mediabased learning environment as children grow. Children can also hang different accessories on the side and rear panels, such as their school backpack and a pencil cup. Designed by Jiwoon Sim and Juyong Oh of ILOOM

INNOVATION FALL 2021

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Gantri X Ammunition Lighting Collections Working in collaboration with the digital manufacturing platform Gantri, Ammunition created three lighting collections. Named Carve, Gio, and Signal, the collections are inspired by Gantri’s 3D printing platform and the intricate, organic, and unexpected possibilities it provides compared to traditional manufacturing. Sustainably produced using a corn-based material and manufactured in California, each light is printed on demand, hand assembled, and finished in a process that feels more bespoke than industrial. Featuring table, floor, and wall-mounted lights, the collections come in five nature-inspired colors. The lights start at $148 and aim to make high-design lighting more accessible. Designed by Victoria Slaker, Nicolas Lenotte, Kainoa Perez, and Zeke Seminario of Ammunition for Gantri

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RETWEED The RETWEED Collection is a sustainable line of performance fabrics containing up to 93% recycled content. Inspired by midcentury modern and vintage tweed, RETWEED projects the textural appearance of hand-loomed textiles where no two rolls are alike. Woven in classic neutral and richly colorful earthen hues, RETWEED incorporates the classic flecks that characterize Donegal tweeds, as well as the collaborating designer’s interpretations of classic tailored fashion patterns. The flecks along with the natural color variations are inherent to the recycling and manufacturing processes—perfectly imperfect design details that serve as artful and meaningful references to the importance of sustainable living practices. Designed by Sunbrella design team and Richard Frinier

INNOVATION FALL 2021

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1. Americana The Adirondack chair is a timeless expression of outdoor enjoyment. The Americana reimages the Adirondack chair, modernizing its classic design language. Its use of high-performance materials makes a bold visual statement while ensuring the chair stands the test of time in public spaces. It uses UV-resistant postconsumer recycled plastic (HDPE) polymer for the seat and back, providing a long, vibrant, low-maintenance life. The commercial-grade rust-proof cast and extruded aluminum supports and under structure are finished with a polyester powder coating to resist fading and chipping. Designed by Loll Designs and Landscape Forms

2. D-cloud The D-cloud sofa was designed to help ease the anxiety and uneasiness caused by a modern, fast-paced life. By extending the backrest and adjusting the shape of the sofa, users can create a sense of being enveloped, giving them privacy and distance from the outside world. D-cloud replaces foam with EPP (expanded polypropylene) to enhance the fluidity of the sofa’s shape to better fit the human body. The fluidity of EPP particles, its superior elasticity, and its shock resistance provide a comfortable sitting experience. EPP can be recycled and reused; it also decomposes naturally. Designed by Lin Qiao mei, Chen Zhi da, Chen Yi teng, Zeng De jian, Cai han bin, and Chen lu lu of Xiamen Solex High-tech Industries Co.,Ltd.

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I D E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Marc Greuther | Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation Marc Greuther is chief curator and senior director of historical resources at The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation—which earned IDSA’s Special Award 2016. He has a bachelor’s degree in art history from the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London and has nearly three decades of experience with the collections at The Henry Ford. His seven years as a member of the institution’s Historic Operating Machinery Unit involved him in the operational stewardship of a wide range of artifacts, from 19th-century machine tools and steam engines to late-20th-century robots and production equipment. As curator of industry and design, Greuther has broadened and deepened the institution’s technology, innovation, and design holdings, particularly through the acquisition of several significant archival collections. As chief curator, he leads the curatorial team and the development of curatorial strategy. Emily Hoffmann, IDSA | Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC A creative designer with a knack for analytical research and visual communication, Emily Hoffmann finds joy in creating meaningful connections. People are at the heart of each connection, which is where she believes good design starts. She approaches any problem with a deep sense of empathy, attention to detail, insatiable curiosity, iterative learning (and sometimes a bit of good ol’ sweat)—a recipe prime for success. Currently, she is the director of experience design and strategy at Traeger Pellet Grills, LLC.

Dane Howard | Amazon Care Dane Howard is a strategic design leader and entrepreneur who has led globally distributed teams and developed products, services, and brands for nearly 20 years. He is currently the head of user experience design and research for Amazon Care, driving the full lifecycle of product experiences. Howard has over 20 years of experience in building and leading teams for both startups and big companies. He co-founded a startup that was acquired by eBay in 2008 and has held principal design and leadership roles for Microsoft, BMW, Major League Baseball, Scient, Quokka Sports, NBCOlympics, eBay, Trōv, and Samsung NEXT. He has been named in over 20 patents for his collaborations and inventions and is a proud advisor to standbeautiful.me. He is also an author and often speaks on design and culture transformation. Karl Hurn | Loughborough University Karl Hurn is an industrial design academic at Loughborough University, one of the leading design schools in the UK, where he manages and teaches undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctorial researchers. As the school’s director of internships, Hurn has formed relationships with industry to facilitate the placement of design students at notable design houses around the globe, including Studio F.A. Porsche, Lego, Adidas, Siemens, and Aston Martin. He is actively engaged in academic research. His most recent research project was working with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to bring user-centered and sustainable sanitation solutions to developing countries. Before joining academia, he worked as an industrial designer for Hotpoint and in retail design for various creative industry consultancy firms.

INNOVATION FALL 2021

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27ART10

WELCOME TO MY WORLD

7ART10 represents a paradigm shift in how people consume media. Technology has freed media content from the schedules and static devices that once bound them, and people have grown accustomed to watching whatever they want whenever and wherever they want. 27ART10 provides a flexible platform for watching TV, engaging in social media, and staying connected. It makes the TV adapt to the user, rather than the other way around. People are increasingly longing for a space that provides rest and a break from our hectic modern life. Also, in this pandemic era where a contact-free digital lifestyle has become normal, interaction between people is needed more than ever. The objective of 27ART10 is to provide a smart environment that creates new demand and improves consumers’ quality of life for a better future. 27ART10 offers a new form factor and user experience in accordance with the changing tastes and thinking of the younger generation. The compact size of the integrated 27ART10 TV and stand was optimized for watching at a closer distance. Freed from the traditional TV stand and wall, 27Art10 gives the user more options for how to arrange their space. With its built-in battery and wheels, 27Art10 can be freely moved about, letting users enjoy their content comfortably from any position and any room—while lying on the bed, sitting on the sofa, exercising, cooking, or in any other posture or place.

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The multi-hinge structure floats the freely moving screen in the air and makes it easy to adjust the orientation of the screen between portrait and landscape mode. 27Art10 features an intuitive touch interface seen on mobile devices. This smartphone-like interface allows easy connection and quick control, which extends to people’s mobile devices. The mobile mirroring function turns the 27-inch screen into a smartphone. People nowadays record videos of themselves just like writing a journal. When 27Art10 is connected to a smartphone, the user can record and monitor 4K Dolby Vision and 8K videos and edit, view, and share on the big touch display. With its compact size and simple design, 27Art10 blends naturally into the surrounding space no matter where or in what direction it is placed. The design of the back hinge components, output terminals, circuit boards, and speakers eliminates unnecessary elements and morphological details. The simple back frame features smooth corners and curved surfaces, and the stand gently rides up from the edge. The frame is wrapped with fabric to give it a warm and soft texture, further enabling it to harmonize with its environment. Designed by Nari Lee, Woo Suk Park, and Sang Ik Lee of LG Electronics, Inc.

“A natural evolution of the television that’s more suitable for modern,

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changing households.

—Donna Piacenza INNOVATION FALL 2021

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Nebia by Moen Spa Shower

BETTER FOR YOUR WALLET AND BETTER FOR THE PLANET

he Nebia by Moen is a highly customizable spa shower system that delivers twice the coverage while using about half the water. It was designed to upgrade existing showerheads and the shower experience without having to undertake an expensive remodel. It consists of a showerhead, an adjustable slide bar, and a hand shower that magically snaps to the wall via a magnetic dock. The global population is projected to grow by 2.5 billion people by 2050, putting an immense strain on the planet’s water supply; demand is projected to increase 55% by 2050. And with only 0.8% of the world’s water being usable, water conservation is the only way forward. That’s why the partnership between Nebia and Moen began with the lofty goal of saving 6 billion gallons of water by 2024. To take an 8-minute shower, people use, on average, 20 gallons of water (about 20% of our daily consumption). When compounded by the number of showers the world takes in a day, the impact on the planet’s fresh-water supply is tremendous. The Nebia by Moen Spa Shower is a step toward a more responsible water-consumption future without compromising the warmth and comfort showers provide us every day. It was designed to win the hearts and minds of water consumers by not making them choose between water conservation and a stylish experience. Nebia challenges the entire showering category to offer unprecedented efficiency while delivering a bespoke spa

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shower experience. It surrounds your body in millions of warm atomized water droplets that envelop you and the air around you in warmth and comfort, using 45% less water than a traditional showerhead. The showerhead can swing in multiple directions to accommodate shampooing and shaving routines. The design also allows users to elevate the rain shower higher than their existing showerhead. The rain shower was intentionally designed to extend horizontally out from the shower arm to accommodate even low-ceiling environments. The magnetic docking hand shower can also be used as a positional body spray. Upgrading to Nebia couldn’t be simpler. It was designed to replace existing showerheads without having to modify the shower stall, break tiles, or even call a plumber. It comes with everything needed for installation in the box and installs in less than 15 minutes. Its approachable, soft, modern design blends well with a variety of existing bath styles and comes in a wide range of finish options (brushed-nickel, matte black, chrome, and combo finishes like chrome and white, and chrome and matte black) to match different décor.

Designed by Jayson Simeon, IDSA, Jessica Birchfield, IDSA, Adam Valco, IDSA, Ryan Burbank, IDSA, of the FBGPG Design Team in partnership with Nebia

“Nebia stands out in its consideration of the environment by reducing water consumption with its unique array pattern that distributes water efficiently.” —Donna Piacenza

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Pella Easy-Slide Operator

LET THE SUNSHINE IN “This innovative window operation system highlights the importance of straightforward ergonomics and elegant design.” —Grayson Byrd

he Pella Easy-Slide Operator is a window hardware solution that delivers an entirely new way to open and close casement and awning windows. It’s as simple to use as turning a dimmer switch on and off. It provides homeowners a hardware option that is not only more aesthetically pleasing than a crank but is also designed for inclusivity, regardless of people’s age or physical ability. Through extensive customer research, Pella learned that people dislike opening and closing their casement and awning windows with a crank, because of its difficult operation and its obtrusive aesthetics. Pella saw an obvious opportunity to create something better. The company set out to solve the problem, pouring over every component and experience to make the operation of the Easy-Slide Operator simple and smooth. The easy operation, minimal design, and durability of the Easy-Slide are the result of over two years of design development, refinement, and consumer testing across the country. Pella’s innovation team continuously iterated and refined the slide operator concept to achieve the best marriage of form and functionality. It has been tested to 20,000 cycles, which is equivalent to opening a window once per day for 54 years. The Easy-Slide Operator window hardware is based on universal design principles. Designed as a solution for all, it requires less than 5 pounds of operating force to open and

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close both casement and awning windows. Horizontal tab surfaces are curved for comfort and to accommodate many grip styles. The thickness of the knob reduces pinch grips for those with arthritic hands. Edges around the grip surfaces are beveled to reduce pressure points when operating. The hardware knob incorporates a wing-back feature to guard against unwanted contact with the window jamb when opening. Precision venting allows users to open a window exactly as far as they want it—and keeps it in place. The slim, sleek design enables the Easy-Slide Operator to discretely complement existing aesthetics such as window treatments and décor. On a casement window, the hardware is located on the jamb; on an awning window, it is located on the sill. It is available in five color options. Pella developed the Easy Slide Operator to be neutral to brand or platform, meaning it can proliferate to the company’s other products where it strategically fits. Currently, it is offered on the company’s fiberglass line of casement and awning windows, Impervia, with plans in place to add it to other product lines in late 2021. Designed by Jenn Tuetken, Bill Parcells, Mark Hetrick, Brian Kolb, and Todd Bernhagen of Pella Corporation Industrial Design, Insights, and Advanced Development Engineering Teams

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Sepura Home Composting Garbage Disposal Unit

DISPOSING OF NORMS

very year Americans landfill or incinerate around 50 million tons of potentially compostable food waste— enough to fully load a line of 18-wheeler trucks from New York City to Los Angeles 10 times. To make composting food waste convenient and appealing to consumers, Sepura Home has transformed the conventional garbage disposal unit into an all-in-one home composting system. Unlike a standard garbage disposal that sends food waste right into the sewage system, Sepura separates food waste from drain water and diverts it to a collection bin under the sink. This allows it to be easily composted and prevents the buildup of odor and fruit flies that typically result from tabletop compost bins. Wasted food isn’t just a social or humanitarian concern—it’s an environmental one. When food waste goes to the landfill and rots, it produces methane, a greenhouse gas even more potent than carbon dioxide. In the US alone, the production of lost or wasted food generates the equivalent of 37 million cars’ worth of greenhouse gas emissions. Sepura can take the food waste that would otherwise end up in a landfill or the sewage system and extract it for composting. The biggest challenge with this product from a design point of view was that there was nothing like it on the market, so there were no clear references for understanding what users wanted from such a product. The design team began the design process by carrying out user interviews with everyone from builders to plumbers to consumers.

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They learned that it was vital to accommodate many different cabinet and sink dimensions. As a result, they created a telescoping height-adjustable collection center that can fit securely under 95% of sinks. They also learned that it was critical to reduce odor and prevent the build-up of fruit flies. To do this, they designed a carbon filter cover and a gasketed sliding door to lock in odors and prevent fruit flies. They also introduced air vents in specific locations to guide the flow of air toward the carbon filter. The worst part of composting, they learned, is emptying the compost bin. Therefore, they made the process as quick and painless as possible. They designed an easy-to-access and easy-to-carry collection bucket that lives inside the collection center. Additionally, most people they spoke to didn’t want a composting bin taking up counter space. With Sepura being housed under the kitchen sink, they would be able to get some of their precious countertop space back to use for other purposes. Finally, the designers ensured that the design was thoroughly considered for manufacturing and assembly. This involved designing plastic parts while considering ways to reduce tooling costs. They also worked closely with mechanical engineers to reduce part count. The goal was a design that gives the client the least amount of technical risk to help them on their road to production.

“A design that provides a cleaner and more user-friendly process to encourage more

”

people to practice composting.

—Donna Piacenza

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Avoir Tankless Toilet Avoir is a tankless toilet solution for those who love the look of smart toilets but have low water pressure or no nearby electrical outlet. Avoir delivers powerful cleaning and flushing with just four AA batteries a year! The Quad-Jet engine amps up pressure to clear waste ultra-fast, and the engineered nozzle scrubs the bowl with a vigorous 360-degree flush. It takes only 15 seconds for the tank to refill, instead of the usual 45–60. There’s an emergency flush button if the battery runs out, and an optional wireless actuator makes Avoir especially convenient for people who are elderly, disabled, or young. Designed by Kohler Design Studio

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BESPOKE Air Purifier AX9500N The AX9500N air purifier allows consumers to choose a front design that suits their lifestyle, tastes, and home interior. Two patterns are available (striped and herringbone) with four colors per pattern. With such a wide variety of appearances to choose from, consumers are sure to find one that will complement their home. The air purifier can be freestanding or combined with a stand to draw attention to it as an elegant, ornamental piece. The rear of the device is simple and understated, directing focus on its performance and enhancing trust in its functionality. Designed by Cheolyeon Cho, Minkyung Choi, Taehan Kim, Seungmok Lee, and Saemi Kim of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

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BESPOKE Stick VS6800 The BESPOKE Stick VS6800 is a wireless vacuum cleaner with a simple but elegant cylindrical shape. All unnecessary functional elements were removed for greater harmonization with consumers’ living spaces. Consumers can select from multiple color combinations and accessories to satisfy their tastes, just like a tailored suit. It is consumer focused both when it is in use and not. It has a low center of gravity and a convenient handle strap to allow easy movement while cleaning and when storing the product. To empty the vacuum cleaner, simply push the handle—just like a syringe. Designed by Jinsun Park, Guyong Park, Junghun Lee, Sunghaee Cho, and Eunji Kim of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

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Water Pot & The Table The Water Pot & The Table help you care for your beloved pets. The Water Pot is a water purifier. It continuously provides clean water while circulating and purifying any stagnant water. Pets can now drink pleasant, safe water similar to a naturally flowing stream. The Table is an automatic feeding machine that helps improve pets’ dietary habits. Autonomous feeding can be convenient for people, but it can cause obesity in pets. It not only serves the appropriate amount of food at the appropriate time, but it allows pet owners to customize the height and depth of the machine to best suit their pet. Designed by duit design lab, Sang Hyuk Kim, Tae Hyoung Kim, and Bomi Kim

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1. 360 AIR PURIFIER Conventional air purifiers cannot clean every corner of a space because they just inhale and discharge air. The 360 Air Purifier uses two boosters that send clean air farther through a targeted dual-booster purification process. You just have to press the power button to enjoy fresh air with no blind spots 24/7. The AI-powered 360 Air Purifier learns through communicating with the user to intuitively identify the status of various contaminants, such as particulate matter, odor, and gas, and to access overall cleanliness. The grill is simple but detailed in design for a more luxurious feel. It is open in all directions, embodying the image of neverceasing air purification. Designed by Sehwan Bae, Myungwhoon Lee, Seungho Baek, Kangeui Cho, Jeewook Ha, and Sungkyong Han of LG Electronics Inc. 2. All New Stylelec The All New Stylelec is a smart-home platform consisting of hardware and software that connect a home’s devices for centralized control while offering overall convenience, security, energy conservation, and comfort. Homeowners can use the wall pad to control all the home’s IoT devices. You can make reservations for community facilities, such as cultural programs, and the doorbell can detect and record suspicious persons/activities. The air-quality sensor automatically optimizes the home’s atmospheric conditions. The light switches and individual room thermostats provide maximum comfort. All of the above features can be accessed via mobile devices as well. Designed by Byungchan Kim, Kukhyun Yoon, Juyong Eom, Namgeun Kim, and Hansuk Kim of DL E&C 3. BESPOKE 4-Door Flex Refrigerator The BESPOKE 4-Door Flex Refrigerator features a robust, minimalist design that harmonizes with any kitchen through its modern paneling. The door handles are even hidden within a recess to avoid any protruding elements that would disrupt the product’s clean lines. The temperature, humidity, and interior and exterior design can be customized to user preferences, making it a truly bespoke product. The top left door is equipped with a dedicated beverage center for storing people’s favorite drinks while stylishly displaying them. The FlexZone in the bottom right door provides specialized storage options for beverages, meat and fish, vegetables, lightly frozen food, and fully frozen food. Designed by Jaejun Kim, Aeryun Kim, Seokwoo Kim, Hyeongju Seo, and Ahjung Joo of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd

4. Electric Cooking Package The Electric Cooking Package eases people’s daily cooking chores. This dual-voltage pot boils, fries, steams, bakes, sautés, roasts, and more. Combining so many functions in one device simplifies the act of cooking. And it is more convenient as living spaces are gradually being reduced. It is also ideal for taking on a picnic or a trip, since it doesn’t take up a lot of space and it’s easy to use and clean. The Electric Cooking Package is fashionable in appearance and competitive in price. Designed by GuangDa Chen, LingHan Li, and HuiTing Qin of Foshan CHARTERHOUSE Electrical Appliances Co.,Ltd.

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5. Eufy H30 Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner The Eufy H30 Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner features PowerSync technology, which optimizes the coordination of volume and efficiency. The device is only the size of a wine bottle, but its maximum power and runtime are twice that of same-sized products. The removable battery module not only extends runtime but makes cleaning faster, deeper, and more efficient. The dust-scraping technology improves cleaning performance and reduces maintenance issues. Its disposable mop module wipes the floor while vacuuming. The set of multifunctional accessories makes daily cleaning of small areas more convenient for users. Designed by Zongshuai Xu, Chao Ren, Peirong Mou, Sangmin Yu, and Xuefeng Bai of Shenzhen Oceanwing Smart Innovation Co., Ltd for Anker Innovations Technology Co., Limited 6. Gallery Stand The Gallery Stand challenges the notion that a TV should be hung on a wall or set on a table. It lets you place your TV out and about in a room while enhancing any space. Mounted on the stylish tripod design, TV never looked this good. The simple floating design with premium aluminum and straight lines creates a stylish atmosphere. The companion bracket connects peripheral devices with the cables and tucks it all neatly out of sight, creating harmony between the TV and its surroundings. With a design that eliminates all distractions, Gallery Stand creates a more immersive viewing experience. Designed by Hyoung Won Kim, Sang Ho Lee, and Min Kim of LG Electronics, Inc. 7. KOHLER Flexispace Bathtub Inspired by the Japanese bathing culture of Onsen (hot-spring bathing), the Flexispace bathtub is designed for deep soaking, which is considered to offer the most relaxation. In a compact living space, it is difficult to have a full-length bathtub. The Flexispace bathtub is designed to fit in a space no larger than a shower or a small bathroom without compromising the comfort of deep soaking or creating an unergonomic situation. It has a foldable step and inner seat, which make it easier to enter and exit and allow users the option for a half-body or a full-body soak. It is offered in two different sizes. The smaller size fits inside a shower stall, leaving around half the space for the shower. Designed by Kohler Design Studio

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8. Mijia K10 Wireless Vaccum Cleaner The Mijia K10 Wireless Vacuum Cleaner is equipped with a high-speed brushless motor of 125,000 RPM. The 150AW suction power quickly sucks up dust, hair, and visible particles. The automatic sensing system continually monitors the surface and adjusts the gears for a more thorough cleaning. It also prevents unnecessary power consumption caused by the machine being in the wrong gear, significantly prolonging battery life. The intelligent LCD display indicates the cleaning mode, the remaining power, error information, and more. The electronic self-locking function on the display prevents accidental triggering of the controls. Designed by Meng Shi Liu and Yu Gan of Xiaomi Mobile Software Co.,Ltd 9. Noble Series(AP-1521B / AP-2021A / AP-3021D) The Noble Series is a line of tower air purifiers that offers a new vision and goals for an air purifier that goes beyond functionality to become a work of art. With a single clear design language and an image that seems to rise with delicate repetitions, the design is memorable. The series provides consistent premium value that extends across all models regardless of the size and proportion of the space in which they will be used. The foldable, easy-to-replace filters offer better intake efficiency and portability. The air-plate vent system allows direct and indirect control of the airflow and circulation to suit user needs. Designed by Hyun-joo Song, Eung-kyu Park, Jung-jae Jeon, Ga-hee Kim, Su-min Shin, and Jeong-hwa Lee of the Coway Design Center

10. Oransi Mod Oransi Mod combines a user-friendly air purifier that looks great in every home. The smart design starts with a simple glass-touch user interface. Just slide your finger to adjust the fan speed to the perfect setting. Then the display dims while the quiet, clean air flows. The simple, intuitive user experience is enhanced by the visual design. The elegant fabric-wrapped cylinder form elevates the home interior. A soft textured form floats visually above a sculptural cast aluminum base to elevate the intake and the appearance. Inside, an efficient motor quietly powers air through a medical-grade HEPA filter. Designed by Kurt Rampton, IDSA, Kelly Custer, Holly Coggins, Joseph Smeltzer, and Steve Gerstein of BOLTGROUP for Oransi

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5 11

11. QP5 The QP5 sound bar provides high-quality sound in a small form factor with 3.1.2 channels and upward Dolby Atmos. Its compact size allows the user to place and easily install it under or next to a TV with no spatial limitations. The round, solid form and interior-friendly fabric complete a design that blends well with the surroundings. The two color options, white and black, broaden users’ choices and enhance the QP5’s interior design versatility. The sub-woofer is a compact low-vibration woofer with the two drivers arranged in the opposite directions to cancel each other’s sound pressure and minimize the vibration of the cabinet. Designed by Gang Ho Woo, Soo Young Park, and Seong Yeong Park of LG Electronics, Inc. 12. Toshiba Air Purifier Series The Toshiba Air Purifier Series features a small air purifier intended to be placed on a piece of furniture, like a desk, and a high-style air purifier for larger spaces meant to be placed on the ground. The modular design and removable grid of both models make it easy for users to replace the filter screen. The air inlet grid, which is not electrified, can be washed. The indicator light on the front alerts uses to the air quality. Blue, green, orange, and red represent, respectively, excellent, good, medium, and poor air. Designed by Wei Chen, Tianjia Huang, Lei Zhao, Xuefei Zhang, and Hanqiang Lei of FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA ELECTRICAL HEATING APPLIANCES MFG.Co.,Ltd. 13. WashTower with Center Controle The WashTower with Center Control integrates the washer and dryer into one unit. It offers a centralized control panel and a lower height to make inserting and removing clothes easier. It features a simple, flat exterior and a flat reinforced glass door. By being integrated into a single body, the washer and dryer share washing data and can finish washing and drying in a shorter amount of time. The integrated intuitive controls let you regulate the washer and the dryer all at once. Compared to having separate units, the WashTower is more space efficient. Designed by Junghwan Lee, Eunyoung Chee, Sojin Park, Hyewon Kim, and Hoil Jeon of LG Electronics, Inc.

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Origami Face Mask

BREATHING EASY

hen the COVID-19 crisis hit and the shelter-inplace order began on March 17, 2020, sales came to a halt for small businesses in America. For Aplat, a culinary design company in San Francisco. The situation became a mission to help their community one design at a time. Origami Face Masks are handmade in San Francisco with ethically sourced materials that are both zero-waste and sustainable. The mask was noted by USA Today as one of the top 10 masks of 2020. As the nation was pivoting in March 2020, Aplat knew they could help with the severe shortage of PPE masks for healthcare workers. The designer prototyped over 25 different cotton mask variations before selecting the most efficient design for mass production as well as the easiest for people to sew at home. Once the final design was determined, the mask pattern was immediately made available for free online and has since been downloaded over 7 million times around the world. Within a week of the sheltering order, Aplat began to manufacture masks in San Francisco. By March 27, 2020, they were donating and distributing the Origami Face Mask to frontline and healthcare workers nationwide. The mask follows origami design principles, creating unique 3D folds that gently form over the nose and chin. The folds allow a more comfortable, protective fit and enable users to wear the mask for longer periods. The full

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coverage of this specifically designed mask creates a barrier from aerosols. Featuring double-layered construction with high-density 10-ounce woven organic cotton, the masks are known to reduce fogging with glasses and to prevent such problems as mask acne and dampness that usually arise after wearing cloth masks. The origami construction also allows an area for inserting a carbon filter, coffee filter, or paper towel for a third layer of protection. The mask comes in two designs—over-the-head and over-the-ear—both with a size-adjustable cord system. People consistently lose their masks when they’re not in use, stuffing them in their pocket or purse or leaving them on a counter or desk or in their car. The cord allows for the mask to comfortably hang around the neck when it is not in use. For Aplat, sustainability is interwoven into all they do. It underlies the Origami Face Mask too. All the masks are free of harsh, toxic materials like plastic, elastic, and metal and are 100% biodegradable and compostable. Aplat extends its concern for the planet to the community as well. With the Origami Face Mask, Aplat was able to keep three local San Francisco factories open and in business during the lockdown and continued to source raw materials from local suppliers. Designed by Shujan Bertrand, IDSA, at Aplat

“The Origami Face Mask can be described simply as thoughtful.” —Ian Coats MacColl

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Zero Halliburton Pursuit Aluminum Luggage This design for this new generation of Zero Halliburton aluminum cases represents a radical rethink of aluminum luggage. Unlike a molded plastic shell, an aluminum case is a formed object. There are opportunities in working with the material, and there are limitations. The designers pushed the limitations to achieve a beautiful, iconic, and sculptural form. The Pursuit line takes advantage of the material qualities to create a stronger and more structural case, offering much-improved durability and protection. In addition, all touchpoints and elements of the cases were thoughtfully designed and engineered to deliver luxury and improved functionality. Designed by PENSA Design Team and Zero Halliburton Design

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Burch Barrel The Burch Barrel is a combination grill, firepit, and smoker that allows for open-fire cooking with wood or charcoal. Inspired by Santa Maria-style grilling, the tripod suspension system lets users elevate the lid and/or the cooktop above the flame to adjust the heat, tend the fire, or take their food out of a flare-up. The barrel’s double-walled construction channels air into the bottom, fueling the fire and keeping the outer surface safe to touch. Its tripod design allows the barrel to be used on uneven ground, making it perfect for outdoor use. Designed by Alex Undi, Roby Burch, Drew Jordan, and Colin Lew of Design Prosody for Burch Barrel

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Nella NuSpec Reusable Vaginal Speculum

DESIGNED WITH PATIENT COMFORT IN MIND

uch to a patients’ dismay, the current reusable vaginal speculum is virtually unchanged from versions created almost 200 years ago. The Nella NuSpec Reusable Vaginal Speculum represents the first major redesign. It elevates both patient and provider expectations. Patients finally see a device that respects their experiences, and providers now have a tool that reflects their interest in patient comfort and quality of care. Each year in the US, 60 million pelvic exams are completed and 30 million gynecologic procedures are performed. Specula are the critical tool used during these exams and procedures, including pap/HPV testing, colposcopies, infertility treatments, and IUD insertions and removals. For patients, pelvic exams can by nature be uncomfortable. The continued use of an antiquated device conveys a level of discomfort (and disrespect) from the patient perspective, even causing them to avoid needed care and recommended exams. Common complaints patients express about current specula include the feeling of coldness from the metal, the discomfort of insertion, the risk of pinching, and the anxietyinducing ratcheting and clanking sounds. Patients often describe them as looking and feeling like torture devices. The Nella NuSpec Reusable Vaginal Speculum upends the status quo by addressing all these issues to deliver a device

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that provides a more empathetic patient experience. While insertion and opening of the speculum is uncomfortable for many patients, the NuSpec’s narrow four-bill design (about the size of a tampon) and smooth temperature-neutral material optimize comfort. It also opens quietly, without the typical jangling and ratcheting sounds that make patients feel uneasy. For clinicians, the NuSpec delivers innovative details, such as integrated sidewall retention, a one-handed locking mechanism, and improved ergonomics, resulting in increased efficiency and performance. Ultimately, the NuSpec helps clinicians create a better patient experience, leading to greater patient satisfaction and improved quality of care. The NuSpec embodies the idea that women’s voices matter and that they deserve better in their healthcare. If patients no longer fear their exam, they will be more likely to comply with exam guidelines, resulting in better healthcare outcomes. Since its release in August 2020, the NuSpec is now in use in over 700 clinics around the country, including some of the US’s most prestigious medical institutions. Design by Maria Lalli of Ceek Women’s Health and Dave Sayler of Gearhead Associates

“Although the shape

and mechanics are

similar to the standard speculum, NuSpec illustrates the power of design to elevate the experience of any device.

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—Lynde Kinter Lutzow

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WorldVent Ventilator

TOWARD PARITY

he explosion of the COVID-19 pandemic in late winter 2020 revealed a desperate shortage of ventilators to treat a growing number of patients impacted by the disease. Many existing ventilators were too costly to acquire in large quantities, required considerable training and maintenance, and could not be operated reliably if stored for long periods. The WorldVent ventilator addresses all these issues. A group of Seattle-based volunteer clinicians, designers, engineers, and philanthropists formed the World Ventilator Foundation to design and develop the WorldVent, a lowcost emergency-response ventilator. It is a streamlined mechanical ICU pandemic ventilator that performs the same life-saving function as highly technical ICU ventilators at a tenth of the cost. It is lightweight (14 pounds), has a highly intuitive controller, and can be rapidly and easily produced. It was designed to operate in a range of medical facilities from hospitals, field hospitals, and even austere environments with limited medical personnel and infrastructure. The intuitive interface coupled with locking knob controls and the digital presentation of key data prioritize situational management during treatment. It requires less than 20 minutes of training to operate, including the controls for the ventilatory rate, depth of breath (tidal volume), oxygen level, peak inspiratory pressure, and positive end-expiratory pressure. The ventilator can be mounted at the bedside or on a pole, providing clinical staff the flexibility to use it in a

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range of treatment locations. The versatile device also allows for both in-hospital oxygen supplies and portable gas tanks. Lastly, even though this is a low-cost ventilator, patient safety was critical in the design, which offers a full range of alarms and a battery backup. Access to healthcare can vary greatly around the world. This pandemic has shown that it’s even worse in times of a global crisis. While the WorldVent was initially launched as a COVID-19 emergency ventilator, as the pandemic has stabilized in portions of the world, this emergency has brought to light the disparity in medical resources around the globe. Recent reporting by the New York Times highlighted that 41 countries in Africa had less than 2,000 working ventilators to serve hundreds of millions of people. In Malawi, 48 out of 100,000 annual deaths are caused by lower respiratory tract infections, in contrast to 14 per 100,000 annual deaths globally and 1.8 per 100,000 annual deaths in the United States. The need for affordable and reliable ventilators extends beyond this pandemic. The availability of a streamlined ventilator whose safe use requires about 20 minutes of training and little, if any, local technical or maintenance support could significantly impact these outcomes. Designed by the WorldVent Volunteer Team for the World Ventilator Foundation

“The design is simple and elegant, and every aspect of its execution has been well-

”

considered, including the user interface and the manufacturability.

—Lynde Kinter Lutzow

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Allergy Amulet Allergy Amulet is a revolutionary wearable sensor designed to detect food allergens. Thanks to the real-time results provided by this lab-vetted technology, dining out is no longer a stressor for people with food allergies. In a few moments, the food has been mixed and is ready to give a result. Interchangeable sensor strips allow users to test for multiple food allergens and they can choose to pair Allergy Amulet with the mobile app for a personalized experience. Designed by Jeanette Numbers, IDSA, Seunghyuk Scott Noh, IDSA, Catherine Jameson, David Baker, and Yutong Shen of Loft Design and Beth Soucy and Abigail Barnes of Allergy Amulet

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Healthdot Healthdot is a wearable sensor for patients discharged from the hospital that allows clinicians to monitor them in their first important days at home. Convalescing and elderly patients often struggle with electronic devices that require Bluetooth pairing, pin codes, or charging. Healthdot is designed so patients do not need to do anything to make it work, allowing them to focus on their recovery. Connecting directly and securely to the cloud ensures reliable remote patient monitoring. As an unobtrusive, rounded white box, the shape of the Healthdot also expresses the simplicity of the design. Designed by Philips Healthdot Venture - Eindhoven, The Netherlands

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Rebel Rebel is a miniature bioprocess analyzer used for research and development in biopharmaceutical labs. It combines three devices into one easy-to-use piece of equipment. With Rebel, researchers can run media analyses on live cultures and bacteria with different parameters in just seven minutes to learn the most effective combinations for the desired outcome. Rebel puts control into the researchers’ hands by eliminating the need for a third-party service to conduct the media analysis. Its built-in easy-to-navigate autosampler allows researchers to test up to 96 samples at a time. Even with its large user-friendly touch screen, this small but powerful device is slim enough to fit on a lab benchtop. Designed by Loft Design and Drew Blouch, Michael Jobin, Christopher Brown, and Colin Gavin of 908 Devices

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Refillable Floss Pick The Refillable Floss Pick is a sustainable way to floss. It comes in a compact, mirrored dispensing case that can be refilled with paper-pulp floss pods. The packaging and refills are entirely paper based, making all elements of delivery and use fully recyclable. To match the convenience of a disposable floss pick, the designers created an innovative method for refilling the pick through an auto-feeding floss pod and tray system. A single pod can replace 180 single-use plastic floss picks, reducing plastic waste and litter. The case is small enough to easily fit in a pocket or bag to take with you on the go. Designed by quip hardware development and Fades to Nothing

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Visby Medical COVID-19 Test Visby Medical’s COVID-19 Test is an instrument-free single-use PCR (polymerase chain reaction) device that fits in the palm of your hand. It delivers near 100% accuracy in under 30 minutes. User-centric design helped ensure that it is easy for anyone to operate it. It can be used almost anywhere; it only requires a conventional power source. With the versatility to rapidly identify any number of serious infections (bacterial, viral, fungal) without sacrificing speed for accuracy, its impact goes far beyond today’s pandemic. This will have a significant impact on a doctor’s ability to access a patient’s PCR-accurate data during an appointment. Designed by Visby Medical (formerly Click Diagnostics)

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M E D I C A L & HE AL T H 1. CMR Surgical - Versius Surgical Robotic System Versius is a next-generation surgical robotic system designed for patients, surgeons, and hospitals. Until now, size and cost have limited widespread uptake of robotically assisted surgery. Compact and portable, Versius has a modular design that allows individual arms to easily be moved around the operating room, between suites, and even between hospital floors, maximizing usage. The surgeon console may be used as a seated or stand-up workstation. Its ergonomic design reduces surgeon strain and facilitates open communication between the surgical team. Its lower cost and managed service model eliminate prohibitive capital outlay, making it easier for more hospitals to adopt it. Designed by James Lamb, IDSA, of Lamb Industries Limited for CMR Surgical 2. KoniKore These KoniKore devices use live brain neurons fused to a silicon chip to “smell” compounds in the air, such as pathogens, cancer cells, and explosives. The genius of this innovation lies in how these devices convert a life-form signal from a programmed neuron into a digital message. In other words, you can give the neurons in the sensors a particular instruction, such as sniffing out threats in an airport or “tasting” food for quality assurance. The living cells inside are bathed in a nutrient-rich microfluidics chamber, sampling air from the surrounding environment. Designed by Dan Harden, IDSA, and Cole Derby of Whipsaw, Inc. for Koniku 3. R-Zero Arc The R-Zero Arc is a hospital-grade UV system that provides easy-tooperate, fast disinfection of academic, corporate, hospitality, athletic, entertainment, and healthcare environments at a fraction of the cost of comparable systems. UV-C technology provides chemical-free disinfection. It is safe to use around food surfaces, electronics, and furniture. Arc can destroy 99.99% of pathogens in a 1,000-square-foot space in seven minutes. The operator positions Arc to maximize coverage, plugs it into a wall outlet, sets the duration, and leaves the room. Equipped with an array of infrared motion sensors, Arc will not operate when it detects the presence of a human or animal. Designed by Fred Bould, IDSA, Anson Cheung, IDSA, Scott Shumaker, and Lora Dimitrova of Bould Design for R-Zero

4. Valence InVent Xtend The Valence InVent Xtend extends a ventilator’s supply during pandemicrelated ventilator shortages. It enables a single ventilator to ventilate two, three, or four patients while ensuring the safety of the connected patients. It allows each patient to have different ventilator pressure settings despite sharing a ventilator. These settings can be modified in real time without impacting the pressure settings of other patients. It is equipped with additional safety elements that prevent CO2 rebreathing and ensure predictable ventilator behavior and alarms. It is also highly cost-effective, being a thousand times less expensive than a typical hospital ventilator. Designed by Steven Roy, A/IDSA, of Convergence Medical Sciences and Darsey Godwin of Exergy Solutions 5. Vave Health Handheld Ultrasound Vave is a handheld ultrasound device that can wirelessly connect with any smartphone or tablet. The portability of Vave allows clinicians and medical students the flexibility to provide enhanced care beyond a person’s physical location or environmental barriers. Vave is an easier, more flexible alternative to traditional ultrasound devices. To prioritize human considerations, the shape and size of Vave were carefully crafted to create a product that can be balanced in your hand while the proportions are small enough so you can hold it in multiple orientations. Designed by Bret Recor, Kenneth Young, Sehee Ahn, Charlie Weber, and Merric French of Box Clever inc. for Vave Health

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Double Scissors

SKEWING THE NORM “Double scissors has an inventive edge that unlocks functionality in an elegant way. A great solution that serves a large opportunity gap.” —Jacklyn Ady

ouble Scissors is a pair of double-edged scissors that accommodates both left-handed and righthanded users. You need only switch the direction of the blade. Double scissors challenges the notion that we need separate products. If both left- and right-handed users can use and share the same pair of scissors, it not only improves the versatility of scissors but also creates a more inclusive environment. Left-handed people live in a right-handed world. More than 90% of the scissors in the world are specifically designed for right-handed users. Left-handed people make up only 10–15% of the world’s population. They are often forced to use notebooks, desks, knives, scissors, and more designed for right-handed users. Trying to adapt to a pair right-handed of scissors is not a reasonable solution for lefties.

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The design of Double Scissors makes it easy to switch between different orientations. Just rotate each handle to switch the direction of the blade. It’s that easy. For compact storage, simply rotate just one of the handles, and you’ve reduced the footprint. Although people’s habits and requirements will always differ, products should offer better overall performance. Tools should accommodate users, rather than forcing users to adapt to the tool. Although Double Scissors looks very ordinary, it is because of the ordinary that it is suitable for more people. Designed by Ren Peng of Shenzhen explore home Industrial Design Co., Ltd

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Collective Conscious Collective Conscious features four textiles that reflect people’s adjustment to a slower, more connected life. Grid State, a postconsumer biodegradable polyester textile, advances the conversation around sustainability. Scale Factor references the senses through the visual, acoustical, and tactile, giving the eye much-needed expansion in response to increased screen time. From fiber to finish, Crossgrain’s dense, textural character was developed for multipurpose use on upholstery, acoustical panels, wrapped walls, and screens. Gaze is a soft, double-sided sheer drapery that is all about spatial integration. It combines clever color play with renewable fibers. Designed by Suzanne Tick of Luum Textiles

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Fitter Sitting for a long time without exercise can cause cervical spondylosis, lumbar disc herniation, and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. American scientific research institutions have found that intermittent exercise (for example, every half an hour) can reduce the harm caused by sedentary lifestyles. Fitter is a 360-degree chair leg that causes people to inadvertently exercise by twisting their body as they work, thereby reducing the harm of sitting for long periods. Designed by Lei Liu, Chujun Li, Fei Han, and Zhixi Li of HengLin Home Furnishings Co.

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1. LAY LAY is a desk designed for the classroom with a focus on aesthetics and functionality. The edges of the desk are rounded off, lending a feeling of friendliness and softness. A modesty panel wraps around the desk to make the user feel cozy and snug. A pen tray, drawers, and purse hangers allow efficient use of storage space despite its compact size. Multiple desks can be linked together on all four sides to easily form a group layout and can be stacked for storage or when being moved. Designed by Kang Youngseok, Ban Haesung, and Lee Youngjin of bestuhl Co., Ltd.

2. Pergola Pergola is a freestanding architectural workspace designed to support new ways of working. It creates spaces where people can get away to collaborate, connect, create, and innovate. Pergola also supports people’s need to focus or restore—alone or together. Its inviting environments support a variety of workstyles, offering the customization desired in today’s workspaces. The unlimited options are achieved with a small collection of individual parts and pieces, allowing designers to easily specify their room size, degree of enclosure, function, and finishes. Designed by Patricia Urquiola of Studio Urquiola and Nathan Shedd of Haworth Design Studio

3. Tempo Tempo is a modular wall and ceiling baffle system that improves acoustics but also functions as art in residential and commercial interiors. Acoustic ceiling systems and wall systems have become overly complex to install and purchase, yet no system works on both the ceiling and the wall. Tempo is the first baffle system that uses the same modules for the ceiling and wall. With 12 different modules offered in six colors, the combinations are almost endless, allowing each designer to easily create unique installations depending on the style of the space and its acoustic requirements. Designed by KEM STUDIO and Loftwall

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I D E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Amanda Huynh, IDSA | Pratt Institute

Alice Jandrisits, IDSA | Liberty Hardware

Amanda Huynh | 黃珮詩 is a Canadian product and food designer working at the intersections of community building, social innovation, and sustainable design. Her design career has allowed her to work across a variety of sectors in Vancouver, Bali, Shanghai, and London. She is an assistant professor of industrial design at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn where she teaches studios, including food design, and topics focused on social impact. Huynh earned a BDes in industrial design from Emily Carr University of Art + Design and worked as a professional designer for several years before pursuing a MSc in food design from Scuola Politecnica di Design in Milan, Italy. She is also a leader on the IDSA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council.

Alice Jandrisits is an industrial design director and user research specialist with over 30 years of professional experience. She has directed teams of designers in both consulting offices and large corporate groups. She has held roles at Cooper Lighting, Sterling Plumbing (a Kohler Company), Baxter Healthcare, Heathrow Scientific, and Red Fusion Studios. She is currently the design director for the Liberty Design Studio in Chicago, overseeing the industrial design and graphics teams. She holds over 20 utility and design patents and has been responsible for successful ID implementation for dozens of product lines. She earned an MS in the Master of Product Design + Development program from Northwestern University and has a BFA in industrial design from the University of Illinois, Urbana–Champaign.

Meija Jacobs | IDEO Keith Kirkland | WearWorks As senior director at IDEO, Meija Jacobs brings her background in psychology and brand strategy to design brands, products, and experiences that matter to people—not as consumers, but as human beings. With over a decade in food and hospitality design, her work for organizations from nonprofits to Fortune 500s includes a fast-casual restaurant designed to change the perception of Indian food, a wellness media network designed to support healthy behavior change, a service supporting NFL players’ transition to post-football life, and branded hospitality experiences and loyalty programs. Prior to IDEO, Jacobs was a director of brand strategy at Team One where she helped create award-winning advertising for brands like Lexus and launched the world’s first luxury hybrid vehicle. She holds an MA in clinical psychology and earned her BA in psychology from Mount Holyoke College.

Keith Kirkland is co-founder of WearWorks and the head of haptics and customers. He has worked with organizations such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum, the DAHRC, Unilever, Futureworks, Discovery Channel, TED, Dropbox, the Yokohama Government, Coach, and the National Science Foundation. He is an engineer, haptic designer, and strategist who is deeply excited about reimagining the future of touch through design while expanding people’s ability to sense their environment. WearWorks is a haptic design company that builds products and experiences that communicate information through touch. Their first product, WAYBAND, is a wrist-wearable haptic navigation device for people who are blind or visually impaired. In 2017, WAYBAND was used to help the first blind person run the NYC marathon without sighted assistance.

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M12 Fuel Hatchet Pruning Saw

CARVING OUT A QUIETER, CLEANER FUTURE

he M12 Fuel Hatchet is a 12V compact cordless pruning saw with a 6-inch bar for pruning applications. The brushless motor gives it the power to cut 3-inch hardwoods and can deliver up to 120 cuts per charge. Weighing less than 5 pounds, the M12 offers increased maneuverability in tight areas. And with the variable speed trigger with immediate throttle response, users have complete control over the power range. Harnessing the power of this saw is made easy with the full house chain, which minimizes vibration and delivers clean cuts. This compact pruning saw was designed to meet the ergonomic, performance, and durability needs of landscapemaintenance and tree-service professionals. To cut through 3-inch hardwoods normally requires a big, heavy gas chainsaw or full-size battery chainsaw. The M12 is not only powerful enough for the task but is so compact that it allows users to get into tight trimming spots where a fullsize chainsaw would struggle to gain access. Professional landscapers prioritize maintaining the health of the plant they are pruning. By giving them control and the ability to maneuver in tight spaces, the M12 allows them to efficiently achieve clean cuts. The M12 also serves as a go-to tool for at-home use in the yard. Instead of hand cutting or operating a big chainsaw to take care of spring yardwork, the M12 gets the job done with less energy, and it does not require professional training

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to be safely operated. It is also ideal for gathering firewood for the next camping adventure. The M12 Fuel Hatchet not only meets the performance standards for landscaping professionals and is perfect yardwork around the house, but it helps improve the efficiency in all pruning and small woodcutting applications as well. Normally, pruning requires a handsaw and can be very strenuous. With the M12, users exert less energy when pruning by letting the compact chainsaw do the work. The battery-powered emission-free motor also allows for use indoors like construction demolition. When quick cuts are needed to demo old walls for a remodel project, a Sawzall is often the preferred tool. The M12 Fuel Hatchet can outperform most Sawzall tools when cutting 2x4s and other wood construction materials. Much to everyone’s delight, the M12 is quiet, allowing landscaping and tree service professionals to work early mornings in residential settings before the midday summer heat without noisy disruptions to neighbors. Low noise on the job site also allows for ample communication, resulting in increased safety on the job. Designed by Drake Schlosser, Scott Fischer, and Shane McCue of Milwaukee Tool

“This entry disrupts its market by eliminating a repetitive, tedious task with an electric design that is rugged, ergonomic, and highly functional.” —Keith Dandridge INNOVATION FALL 2021

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Pellet Joe Pellet Joe is a grill that combines the simplicity and control of burning wood pellets with the unmatched thermal efficiency of a ceramic Kamado-style grill. The Pellet Joe’s hopper will hold up to 10 pounds of pellets, which can last around 14 hours for long smoking sessions. Unlike standard charcoal-burning Kamados, starting up Pellet Joe is as simple as turning the front dial to the desired temperature, ranging from 200 to 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Users can monitor and control the internal temperature from their phone via Wi-Fi connectivity. Designed by The Atlas PMG Team and Kamado Joe

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1. Fi Smart Collar The Fi Smart Collar tracks your dog’s movement and location, ensuring your best friend is keeping fit and staying close to home. Using a combination of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS signals, the Smart Collar can locate your pet to a radius of as little as 7 feet. Owners can set up geofencing around their home and be immediately alerted when their dog leaves their domain. If they do leave, pets can be accurately tracked and recovered quickly. The activity tracking also allows owners to ensure their dog is getting the right amount of exercise for their breed. Designed by Fred Bould, IDSA, Jeremy Wolf, IDSA, and Jamie Perin of Bould Design for Fi 2. RYOBI 18V EZ Reach Pole Attachment System The RYOBI EZ Reach System is a telescopic pole with a range of attachments: a lightweight pole hedge trimmer, a rounded cone brush, and a window cleaning brush. When designing the RYOBI EZ Reach System, the goal was to reduce the weight as much as possible. Tools that are easier to use and more ergonomic reduce bodily strain, leading to a more enjoyable experience for a wider range of customers. Lighter, more comfortable, and more versatile products help take the chore out of maintenance tasks, helping users enjoy their garden more. Designed by Techtronic Design OPE Team

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Xfinity Eco Capsule for Xfinity Streaming Box and Xfinity Gateway Products

ICONIC AND MEMORABLE

he Xfinity Eco Capsule packaging is both reusable and 100% recyclable. It is made with renewable resources such as bamboo, bagasse (sugar cane), and paper and is manufactured in factories that use solar and wind power and recycled water. The footprint of the packaging was reduced by 10% from the previous design, and the assembly time was reduced by a minimum of 50% and up to 66%, translating into less energy used during assembly. The Xfinity Eco Capsule is the company’s platform for modular, reusable, recyclable packaging. It uses a sizing and manufacturing system that allows for economies of scale with common parts such as shared lids. The tube can be cut to multiple lengths for different size products while using the same resealable lid. With shared package sizes and common parts, the problems of inventory management and potentially unwanted or outdated packaging, which lead to waste, are solved. While the molded product trays are 100% recyclable and compostable, Xfinity encourages reuse by including illustrations of how users can save the Eco Capsule to store their favorite things. The company also plans to use social media to encourage creative ways to reuse the capsule, such as a decorative container or a planter. Other eco-friendly features include eliminating the plastic polybag around the remote and power supply. An eco-friendly paper envelope protects the remote, and a

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paper sleeve manages the cord on the power supply. The Xfinity Eco Capsule provides a superb customer unboxing experience. First, the rigorous engineering of the Eco Capsule ensures customers receive their streaming TV boxes and gateways intact, surviving the hardship of the shipping process. Ease of activation was planned with a staged unboxing design: the product on the uppermost layer, followed by the welcoming getting-started guide, and then the accessories on the bottom layer. The accessibility aspects of the design, such as the use of Braille, the link to the accessibility website for extra help, and the ergonomic lid and pull strips, were tested and optimized for visually impaired users and customers with arthritis. While the shape of the Xfinity Eco Capsule is both iconic and memorable, much thought went into the graphic design as well. The direct-ship version is purposefully minimal with its brown kraft-paper exterior. On the white retail capsule for the Xfinity Flex streaming device, photorealistic renderings that illustrate the streaming box and the voice remote form pair with simple iconography of the features and logos for content partners, representing the variety of entertainment accessible with Xfinity’s voice technology. Together, these visuals quickly communicate the products’ benefits to customers. Designed by Ellen Glassman, Mike Boylan, Richard Pfeiffer, Adrian Song, and Angie Griggs of Comcast Experience Design, Package Design Team

“The Xfinity Eco Capsule is impressive for its truly systemic approach

to packaging design, with an understated exterior that makes it inviting to reuse.

”

—Gaby Brink

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Fitbit Sustainable Packaging Fitbit packaging is how consumers are welcomed into the Fitbit Family. Although it appears unassuming from the outside, the new package design features a pop-up book structure that presents the device and accessories all at once in a delightful way. The molded paper-pulp tray, with its beautiful contour, props the device up and allows users to see more of the product. Users won’t have to struggle to remove accessories thanks to the pull tab on the accessory box. Lastly, clear instructions are printed on the package to direct users to the Fitbit app for seamless product onboarding. Designed by The Fitbit Industrial Design Team .

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Sonos Arc Packaging The challenge for the packaging design for the Sonos Arc was to create a premium unboxing experience using sustainable materials. The design explorations focused on key elements of the unboxing experience, including product presentation, easy opening, and paper-based product protection. All aspects of the customer journey were examined to deliver a joyful experience. The design features beautifully engineered pulp cushions, a patented clip system, and a lid-and-base box style. Upon lifting the lid, the customer is presented with the sound bar in its tailored product wrap. The packaging utilizes 97% postconsumer recycled content for parts made from paper and represents the Sonos brand and product in a premium way. Designed by Jeremiah Etchison, Matthew Chung, Michelle Enright, Ben Blanchard, and Dana Krieger of YFY Jupiter

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P A C K A GI NG

Union & Scale Workplace Furnishings Packaging System The Union & Scale Workplace Furnishings Packaging System provides interchangeable furniture and decor to create inspiring and productive workspaces. Design themes are expressed throughout the collection, offering work-life solutions that scale with businesses and support their culture. This packaging solution unifies the presentation of all Union & Scale furnishings and accessories and reflects the same holistic development process and design rigor that underpins every Union & Scale product. The packaging system signals to clients that the business is healthy and to employees that they are a valued members of the team. Designed by Dan Reilly, Ryan Crowley, Kris Lonergan, Brian Cusack, Logan Steinfeld, Jessica Hedge, Evan Hutker, Richard Watson, and Eric Abraham of Essential Design for Staples Inc.

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Lea Kobeli | McKinsey Design

Grace Lee | Logitech

Lea Kobeli is an industrial design consultant with more than 20 years of experience designing physical products and creating human-centered customer experiences for a diverse range of Fortune 500 clients, such as HP, Intel, Keurig, Varian Medical Systems, AeroVironment, Illumina, SanDisk, Roche, and Adidas. Responsible for exploring and defining the right expression for each product, Kobeli has a passion for designing tangible objects that make it into the hands of customers to surprise, connect, and delight. Her work has been recognized by numerous international awards. At McKinsey Design, where she is a design director, she is involved in defining white-space opportunities and go-tomarket strategies for domestic and international companies, helping them reimagine their brands and create new customer-centric experiences.

Grace Lee is a designer who is passionate about building products that delight people and working with brands that speak to real users. In addition to providing a careful design sensibility and technical craft, she finds great pleasure in the challenge of telling relatable, emotive stories that bridge the gap between a brand’s voice and tactical product benefits. She approaches her work with the same attitude with which she approaches her life: Her purpose is to challenge herself with complex yet meaningful problems, empower those around her, and, most of all, have fun along the way. An industrial design leader with over 10 years of experience, she is currently a design principal at Logitech with prior experience with Samsung, Astro Studios, and more.

Donn Koh, IDSA | STUCK Design

Carolina Leyva is a designer focused on understanding the importance of emotion and empathy in the design process, as well as its impact on the stakeholders’ experiences. She has over 15 years of experience working on strategic design research and information design for public and private organizations in Colombia, the United States, and Oman. She was a professor of industrial design for the undergraduate program at Universidad Javeriana and a professor for a graduate program at Sergio Arboleda University, both in Colombia. She joined Fjord in 2015, where she is a service and interaction design manager. Leyva is in charge of developing the organizational innovation practice in Colombia and setting the strategic vision for innovation projects from a human perspective in alignment with the business strategy and the innovation pipeline.

Donn Koh established STUCK as a multidisciplinary design agency deeply rooted in industrial design and user experience that has wings in technological tinkering, coding, spatial development, and education. This rare combination has enabled STUCK to work on cornerstone projects, like developing Singapore’s national learning framework for the design industry, redefining the concept for Singapore’s nursing homes, and creating new spatial principles for Singapore’s public preschools. Apart from work in healthcare, aerospace, consumer product innovation, and military interfaces, STUCK’s transdisciplinary approach has proven inventive in the emergent area of design-led marketing activations for Samsung, Essilor, Nikon, and Johnson & Johnson. Koh’s award-winning works include the Air+ Smart Mask, HTC’s Evo 4G, the Leapfrog Cerebral Palsy Walker, and the Microsoft Arc Touch Mouse. He is also a senior lecturer at the National University of Singapore, Division of Industrial Design.

Carolina Leyva | Fjord

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Service Meet Service: A toolkit to support to youth victims of sex trafficking Service Meet Service is a comprehensive digital and physical toolkit for sharing the National Center of Youth Law’s response to the commercial sexual exploitation of children and youth. The toolkit will contribute to the collective momentum for advocacy and reform around this issue. The design process envisioned the toolkit as a facilitation tool while building a system that is accessible, prioritized, digestible, and impactful to multiple stakeholders, including youth. It provides action-oriented tools for group facilitation, knowledge sharing, and policy and practice change. Designed as a living digital tool, the toolkit can be updated to remain a robust record of best practices over time, eliminating the need to search for and/or cross-examine multiple repositories of information. Designed by Molly Ackerman-Brimberg, Joey Wang, Kat McMillan, and Xavier Jones of SuperDeep Studio and MADO

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S E RV I CE D E SI G N

Radiology Operations Command Center (ROCC) The Radiology Operations Command Center (ROCC) is a virtualized imaging solution that seamlessly connects imaging experts at a command center with technologists at scan locations across the organization. ROCC’s advanced technology and workflows facilitate communication between scanner-facing technologists and experts. Real-time adjustments to the imaging protocol can be made with the support of an expert, and questions can be answered even while a patient is on the scanner table. ROCC breaks down communication barriers and helps maximize the value of top staff without compromising imaging quality, privacy, safety, or security. Designed by Philips Experience Design team – Cambridge MA, USA, Pleasanton, USA, Bangalore, India

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Badger Shield Open Source PPE

A PLATFORM FOR GOOD

s the global supply chains imploded at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and there was a dire shortage of personal protection equipment (PPE) for frontline workers, the team behind the Badger Shield went to work developing an easily manufactured face shield. Within days, they uploaded their design to the internet. And the rest is history. Badger Shield is an open-source face-shield platform designed to rapidly distribute desperately needed PPE to smaller medical facilities and essential workers. Within weeks of launch, healthcare systems requested 5.5 million units. An online portal matched requests with manufacturers, and the world went to work. Production lines in 22 countries representing 400 manufacturers, from giants like Apple to local outfits like Midwest Prototyping, combined to make 2 million per day. More than 40 million Badger Shields were distributed in 2020, helping to keep manufacturers open, facilities stocked, and essential workers safe during the initial lockdown period of the pandemic. Instead of centralizing the initiative, the team behind Badger Shield chose to relinquish control and sacrifice profit by making everything open source. The University of Wisconsin and UCLA developed the online software platform that matched manufacturers with healthcare providers in need. Distributed manufacturing of the Badger Shield allowed hospitals to connect with local manufacturers for their production needs. While standard PPE channels prioritize hospitals, Badger Shield’s matching algorithm was designed

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to get supplies to smaller medical facilities and essential workers, like nursing home aides and garbage collectors. It factored in urgency and proximity to manufacturers. It also made logistics easier, since manufacturers could hand deliver PPE, if needed. They could also customize the design and scale quickly based on demand. Frontline workers embraced the design because it was familiar. Research with healthcare workers gave designers the insight that those on the frontline didn’t want to learn something new during the height of a pandemic. The designers rapidly iterated prototypes with users. The one they chose was almost an exact match to current shields. Users wanted what they already knew, just more of them. Many more. Speed of manufacture was crucial, so the design team focused equally on the needs of manufacturers and DIYers. They chose materials that would be the easiest and fastest to manufacture and distribute. Badger Shield also kept many businesses open and people employed during a dark time when factories shut down. Many manufacturers had to pause their production lines in March 2020 because they were not essential businesses. Badger Shield made them essential. Manufacturers were encouraged to establish a fair market price with their customers, creating a win-win for suppliers and purchasers. Designed by Jesse Darley of Delve, Brian Ellison of Midwest Prototyping, and Lennon Rodgers of University of Wisconsin Makerspace

“Badger Shield demonstrates that

design can have an extraordinary impact, no matter how simple. This open-source design helped

millions globally during the COVID pandemic.

”

—Dane Howard

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Circular Plastics – Returning Waste to Use in Africa Circular Plastics is a collaboration between three universities and one NGO in the UK with project partners in Kenya, Rwanda, and Nigeria. Together they developed a technology-led strategy to reduce waste by transforming used plastic water bottles into products that support entrepreneurship in low- and middle-income countries. The team devised an extruding process that converts polyethylene terephthalate (PET) from plastic bottles into 3D printer filament. To date, six innovative products have been launched that support self-sufficiency and economic development in the agriculture, mineral extraction, fishing, and mobility sectors. Designed by Mark Evans, Timothy Whitehead, Oliver Evans, and Guy Armstrong of Loughborough University UK and Aston University UK

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ID E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Marissa Louie | SiriusXM Pandora

José Manuel dos Santos, IDSA | Signify

Marissa Louie is a senior design director at SiriusXM Pandora, where she leads a design organization that thoughtfully creates listener experiences for more than 100 million users across native apps, the web, connected devices, and wearables. She is also the founder of Animoodles, a children’s toy and entertainment company that transforms stuffed animals into heightened creative play experiences for kids of all ages. Previously, she was a design leader at Apple, Expedia, Yahoo, and Ness. She has won over 50 awards for her work across industrial design, user experience, and technology. As a passionate advocate for elevating the design industry at large through crossdisciplinary thinking and career support, Louie is the founder of the prominent online design communities Designers Guild (Facebook) and Designers Club (Clubhouse), serving more than 100,000 designers and design enthusiasts in over 100 countries.

José Manuel dos Santos has over 30 years of experience in design and design management. He has an MA in industrial design from the Central Saint Martins College of Art & Design in London, an executive MA from Northwestern University, and a PhD in design from the European University on the topic of design(er) leadership in large corporations. Starting in Portugal as an industrial designer, he formed and sold two product design companies in Europe, worked as industrial design director in Barcelona, and as chief design officer led a large Internet company in Lisbon. He co-founded one of Europe’s fastest-growing startup accelerators and has co-hosted many design-related conferences. In 2011, he came to the US and joined the Fortune 500 company Masco as a design director. In 2016, he joined Signify (formerly Philips Lighting) as the head of design for the Americas. Kevin Massaro | HP

Lynde Lutzow, MD | Temple University Hospital Dr. Lynde Lutzow is a general surgery resident at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia. She also is a formally trained industrial and interaction designer. Before embarking on a surgical career, she worked in medical device development at Ximedica in Providence, RI, specializing in design research and human factors. Her work informed the development of all classes of medical devices and healthcare services for clients like Kimberly-Clark, Covidien, Smith+Nephew, and CVS. Lutzow is fascinated by the intersection of medicine, design, and human behavior and specializes in healthcare innovation to improve patient safety, surgical outcomes, and user experience. She holds a BFA in industrial design from the Savannah College of Art and Design and obtained her medical degree from Tufts University.

Kevin Massaro is the vice president of consumer design at HP, where he drives design strategy, development, and sustainability initiatives across the company. He leads a multinational team of designers, engineers, and trend and material specialists to create an award-winning portfolio of products. He has been instrumental in establishing design at HP as well as building out the structure of the design organization and its human-centric-led design processes. Passionate about where design makes a difference at so many intersections, Massaro is known for raising the level of dialog and driving change. A skilled storyteller, he is also deeply involved in developing north star visions that help navigate future strategic directions. He holds over 70 patents and is a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University.

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Awake RÄVIK S

ECO SPORTY

he Awake RÄVIK S is a next-generation electric watersports vehicle designed and developed for extreme jet-powered surfing. Smaller than the Awake RÄVIK, its predecessor, the Awake RÄVIK S offers advanced riders a body shape and size with performance-specific materials and volume distribution that deliver high jumps, deep carves, and dynamic agility. One of the main purposes of the Awake RÄVIK S was to produce a premium performance watersport vehicle that is powered by emission-free batteries as opposed to gasoline, which is still largely used among industry leaders. Awake also uses as many materials as possible in as many applications as possible that can be recycled or reused or otherwise minimize the impact of the product on the environment. The Awake RÄVIK S has incorporated several design features that advance the watersports industry as well as dynamically differentiate it from competing brands and products. It features channels in the hull that increase the traction with a lower ride as well as create a directed flow for precise and nimble movement. The indentations on the sides of the board have been sculpted to optimize the efficiency of tight and deep carves as the buoyancy in turns is proportional to the board’s convergence of trajectory, flow, and speed. A wireless throttle, provided with a floating wrist strap, controls speed, while steering is traditionally controlled by balance.

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For streamlined production, maintenance, and repairs, the Awake RÄVIK S shares the modular driveline and battery pack units with other boards in the Awake product family. The deck pad is formed for effective traction where needed and wanted while leaving as much of the body as possible uncovered to allow riders to easily glide onto and off of the board. Many competing products have larger areas covered with deck padding, which can make mounting and sliding off the board difficult or even painful due to traction and rubbing. The Awake RÄVIK S has a very distinct physical form and visual aesthetic that identifies it as a necessary performance product differentiated from its predecessor, the Awake RÄVIK, as well as competitors from other brands. Although features such as channels and side indentations are highly functional in their purpose, they create a performance appeal that has been recognized in the marketplace and among customers who want something extra. The Awake brand has enjoyed a dramatic increase in multi-channel interest in social media as well as sales with the launch of the Awake RÄVIK S. Designed by Brendon Vermillion, Philip Werner, and Jordan Spack of Ride Awake AB

“The Awake Ravik S redefines watersports through its emission-free performance and

impressive execution that beautifully blends materials and aesthetics. A product that

”

would make anyone give watersports a go.

—Yuenn Colin

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Powerbeats Pro Designed for elite athletes, Powerbeats Pro is the fourth generation of Beats’ popular sports headphone product line. With true wireless architecture that incorporates the industry-leading Powerbeats functional ear-hook design approach, Powerbeats Pro provides stability and a secure fit for a wide variety of active use cases. These lightweight earphones deliver powerful balanced sound. They are built to provide the best possible fit for active users to take their workout to the next level. The redesigned acoustic package serves pure sound reproduction, enhanced clarity, and an improved dynamic range. Each earbud supports up to nine hours of listening time and more than 24 hours of combined playback with the charging case. Designed by Robert Boyd, Sean Steward Corbin, Duy P. Le, Guillaume Raoult, Christopher Kuh, and Robert Brunner of Ammunition for Beats by Dre

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SPOT Gen4 Global Satellite GPS Messenger The SPOT Gen4 provides a life-saving line of communication when you travel beyond the boundaries of reliable cellular service. The SOS feature is the most essential. If the unexpected should happen, it sends your GPS location to emergency responders with the push of a button. It also lets family, friends, and colleagues know you are safe and keeps them up to date on your adventure. You can send preset text messages and emails to a list of preloaded contacts. Lastly, its cloud-based location tracking makes it easy to maintain a log of your journey. Designed by HUGE Design LLC

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Yakima Products CBX Solar Cargo Box The CBX Solar rooftop cargo box blends clean lines and modern aesthetics with an integrated solar panel capable of delivering a 36W/5-volt output for when you’re adventuring off the grid. With two USB ports, it provides enough juice for a small campsite, won’t drain power from your vehicle, and can charge phones, tablets, camping lanterns, and action cameras. The cargo box also features an integrated easy-grab lid handle and a removable torque tool that stows on the side out of the way to free up all 16 cubic feet of available space for your gear. Designed by Yakima Products Inhouse Design

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S P O R T S , LE I SUR E & R E CR E ATION

1. Bollé RYFT The Bollé RYFT is a ski helmet designed and engineered to provide unsurpassed helmet temperature regulation for novice skiers, backcountry explorers, and Olympic athletes. The active panel ventilation (APV) is a new patent-pending technology that is part of the unique snow helmet ventilation system created exclusively for Bollé. APV allows for larger vent openings and increased airflow while still passing impact certification testing, allowing skiers to easily control their helmet temperature when hiking to the summit or slashing turns off-piste. Designed by Ben Pritz, IDSA, of Bollé 2. Fitbit Inspire 2 The natural evolution of the Fitbit Inspire 2 from the Inspire and Inspire HR was driven by advancing the technology, softening the form for greater comfort, and pairing the device with the Fitbit Premium software bundle. The Inspire 2 takes a sophisticated yet elegant approach through form, color, and proportion to create a jewelry-like feel in an often-overlooked product tier saturated by bright textured rubber bands. It is seen as a living skin that will evolve to be more intelligent and seamless. This means that the sensors will no longer be limited to the back of the product but will be the product itself. Designed by The Fitbit Industrial Design Team

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Moove

THE BEAUTY OF ANALOG

n the modern world, we should be emphasizing sustainability as a response to the environmental implications of increased electricity usage and product disposal. Moove is an attempt to “de-electrify” the modern shaver by reintroducing the concept of a wind-up shaver wrapped in a sleek and modern aesthetic. Wind-up shavers were introduced in the 1960s. They were even sent on missions to the moon because of their convenience. Due to technological advances in electronics, they were later rendered obsolete. Moove reintroduces this technology to a world in need of a more sustainable way to live. Environmental considerations were present throughout the entire design process. The two largest concerns were the rampant home electricity usage and e-waste. According to the Department of Energy, US home energy consumption attributed to electronic devices has more than doubled since 1980. With exponential rates of technological advances, obsolescence rates for consumer products have never been faster. Products are easily abandoned for the latest model. Moove circumvents these problems by using the highest material grade while eliminating electronics entirely. Instead of using electricity, Moove is powered by an internal mainspring that when cranked builds up energy

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and activates an internal gear mechanism that powers the oscillating foil blade. Three seconds of winding will give three minutes of shave time. The final form was chosen because of its ergonomics, aesthetics, and functionality. Since the shaver derives its power from the mainspring diameter, it was crucial to allow the diameter of the form to be as wide as possible, thus resulting in its flat appearance. Ergonomically, it’s very easy to hold in the hand and maneuver. The finish is soft to the touch with a speckled patterning that aids in grip, and the colors were chosen to appeal to anyone. Moove offers many benefits for users. It can be used anywhere or everywhere; you never have to worry about batteries or recharging. Plus, a dry shave requires no shaving creams or gels. Although it is targeted primarily to those who are environmentally conscious, it also serves as a convenient travel shaver. While Moove reduces the amount of electricity used by consumer products and the e-waste generated by high obsolescence rates and electronic failures, it is also poised to disrupt the electric shaving market as it introduces something uniquely sustainable, long-lasting, and beautiful. Designed by David Shaltanis of Virginia Tech

“Exhibits a more nuanced understanding of the problems around sustainability.” —Kevin Massaro

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Sentinel - Outbreak Bio-reconnaissance

A MAP FOR CONTAINMENT “Great storytelling through scenario analysis and device application.” —Kevin Massaro

entinel is a tele-epidemiology system that rapidly diagnoses and reports disease data in real time to a cloud network. It also safely collects viral samples for further analysis. In contrast to swab tests, for which reliable results can take several hours, Sentinel provides results within 30 seconds, enabling health authorities to make faster and more informed decisions to prevent further spread of an outbreak and escalation to the level of a pandemic. . Collecting disease data during an outbreak depends on paper or conventional smartphones. Field samples then undergo a lengthy process of being transported to local testing sites before results can be obtained. As demonstrated with COVID-19, these methods are inadequate when confronted with a quickly spreading outbreak of a new, unknown disease. The Sentinel system works alongside current response procedures to confirm the nature and disease case definition significantly faster than previous methods. Once a new disease has been identified, Sentinel uses advancements in the ability to 3D print microfluidic chips to create diagnostic platforms specific to the new disease. These platforms are capable of rapidly diagnosing within minutes in the field. Field epidemiologists collect test results and other essential data from randomly selected local populations. Sentinel reports this information to an IoT network with a time and GPS stamp to help map the nature and spread of the outbreak, including, the percentage of the local population

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infected, locational insights on the outbreak origin, and who is vulnerable to infection. To operate in rural communities, after disaster relief, or even in urban areas with a poor cellular signal, the retractable antenna incorporates dual satellite-cellular IoT connectivity to guarantee connection and precise GPS positioning to relay data anywhere around the world. The design of Sentinel took into account varying field conditions, resulting in a rugged, easy-to-operate system. It replaces large mains-operated testing equipment with a lightweight handheld diagnostic device that can be transported into the field. The ruggedized watertight design of the analysis device uses impact-resistant ABS built around a robust metal chassis. This ensures the device survives transit across the globe and in harsh environments. The sample collection device and carry case have safety measures to ensure used collection devices are secure and cannot be accidentally opened or reused. Information during outbreaks is a highly valuable resource, and time is a crucial factor in an outbreak. The earlier information can be collected, the more effective the response effort can be. Sentinel provides this essential outbreak data earlier than any current method through the IoT network that global governments and health organizations can invest in. Designed by Oliver Evans of Northumbria University

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Swell Surf Foot

MAKING WAVES

he Swell Surf Foot is a prosthetic foot designed to mitigate the challenges amputees face when visiting the beach to surf. While many current prosthetics work well on dry land, their quality and flexibility lack the needed performance for a surfing session. Swell allows amputees to closely replicate the flexibility, grip, and movement of a human foot, enabling surfers to move in ways current prosthetics prohibit. Designed with materials intended for use in corrosive saltwater, Swell withstands the effects of the harsh ocean environment from session to session and can be easily adjusted at the beach, allowing users to fine-tune it to their desired performance. Watching amputees surf is the fastest way to realize there is a problem. Because a prosthetic foot doesn’t flex, users struggle to maintain their natural stance, causing imbalance and difficulties staying on the board for long. Most foot prosthetics on the market are also not designed for use in the water, and current waterproof prosthetics are very expensive and difficult to obtain. This drives most amputees to modify an older foot, oftentimes drilling holes and wrapping them in duct tape. Even with these modifications, the experience is far from ideal for these athletes. Since the modified prosthetic is used for unintended applications, it lacks the features necessary to create a successful visit to the beach.

Swell solves these problems with a bushing system. Two urethane bushings and a sole are molded over a machined plate containing two bolts that act as shafts. This creates a cohesive movement, allowing the bushings and sole to move together, simulating the adduction and abduction of the ankle. The sloping shape of the front bushing narrows toward the front of the foot, creating an area with less material, which allows for just enough flexion while walking. The shape further creates a natural stopping point to prevent awkward over-flexing. By increasing the range of motion, particularly in the adduction and abduction motion, users can accomplish natural surfing maneuvers without modifying their stance, thus preventing potential injury. The pop-up is the first action required to ride a wave. It requires flexibility in the toe box. Swell is designed to flex enough in the front while maintaining rigidity elsewhere. The wider sole can flex around the edges, keeping the surfer’s whole foot on the board. The treads add to this experience, providing added grip that performs better than a single point of contact. Once off the board, the foot leaves an impression in the sand, letting others know a Swell surfer has conquered some waves. Designed by Zachary Samalonis and Yuhan Zhang of Jefferson University

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“Impressive for how it demonstrates a deeper understanding of usability through

prototype development.

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—Erika Avery

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TômTex

PRESERVING OUR WORLD FOR TOMORROW

ômTex was designed as a sustainable alternative to faux and animal leathers. It is made of two key bio-based ingredients, seashell waste and coffee grounds, and uses natural colors with no tanning process or backing material. At the end of its life, a TômTex product can be disassembled and fed back into the TômTex production process or be allowed to fully biodegrade. Besides using bio-based raw materials, TômTex production also consumes significantly less water, energy, and land compared to the standard production of faux and animal leather. Worldwide, more than 9 million tons of wasted coffee grounds are produced every year. Most of it ends up in landfills where every ton of the waste generates 14 tons of carbon dioxide. Additionally, the food industry generates 6 million to 8 million tons of shellfish waste annually. This food waste, if repurposed properly, can be a viable source of chitin, a polysaccharide that exhibits exceptional characteristics, including biodegradability, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. The world is running out of raw materials, so repurposing this waste into a new, accessible biomaterial for everyday life will help people better understand the problem and contribute to making a positive impact. Aside from addressing the food waste issue, TômTex also provides an alternative to the toxic tanning process in leather production, which permanently alters the protein structure of the skin, making it more durable and less

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susceptible to decomposition. More than 90% of the leather produced globally is chrome tanned, which harms the environment and workers’ health and safety. According to a study conducted by France Labrèche (published by PETA), exposed tannery workers tend to have a higher cancer risk, 20–50% above expected rates. With a new technology that allows TômTex to use natural dye ingredients and circumvent the leather-tanning process, TômTex provides a safer work environment and releases no toxins into the environment. TômTex leverages renewable resources and natural waste materials to enact a vision of a world where people surround themselves with high-performance materials sourced directly from waste, not fossil resources. Most importantly, TômTex is not asking people to choose between cost, performance, aesthetics, or sustainability. True sustainability requires technologies to meet civilization where it’s at. To be sustainable, businesses must not only implement scalable technologies but must also execute models that scale to all communities. It is well understood that today’s linear materials economy is overly dependent on petroleum and is creating problems for people and the planet. TômTex believes that regular consumer adoption of environmentally friendly biomaterials is a critical step to slowing climate change and safeguarding the future. Designed by Uyen Tran of Parsons School of Design

“Pushes the bounds of material science with a solution that can accommodate many fields.” —Erika Avery

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Elves - Shinola Camping Accessory Set Elves is a camping accessory set that offers sustainable design solutions for users who are conscientious about their impact on the environment. It prevents carbon and smoke emissions and the possibility of causing accidental forest fires. Elves was designed to provide a new campfire experience, complete with an area to roast marshmallows. At the heart of Elves is a reimagined fireplace that runs on solar energy. It features a s’more pit, a coffee brewer, tableware, and a hanging light. The forms in the set are inspired by bundled branches, minimalism, and a celebration of the environment around it, rather than drawing attention to the product itself. Designed by Qing Yan of ArtCenter College of Design

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MYO - Mix Your Own Household Cleaners MYO is a system that allows you to mix your own natural household cleaners and soaps, dramatically lowering your carbon footprint and saving you time and money in the process. Customers receive cleaners in the mail as concentrated tablets. Each tablet contains enough solution for several months in a package the size of an envelope. You dissolve the tablets in water by rapidly mixing them with a magnetic spinner in an inexpensive family of reusable mixing vessels, creating suds-free liquid cleaning solutions. Adding water at the point of use drastically reduces emissions from shipping and eliminates unnecessary single-use plastic packaging. Designed by Jason Carley, IDSA, of University of Notre Dame

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OPlay—Medical Product for Children with Asthma OPlay makes administering asthma medication, monitoring children and their symptoms, and recording data a seamless and friendly process. It integrates the playing of a musical instrument with the use of an asthma spacer and a peak flow measurement tool. When a child uses OPlay, the device senses actions and plays corresponding melodies. Different music pieces and a light provide feedback during each step to guide children in its use. OPlay turns tedious asthma therapy into a joyful recital presented by children, making treatment more interesting and psychologically accessible. Designed by Jinxuan Yang, Jieying Mo, Yue Deng, and Fan Wang of School of Design, Jiangnan University

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Quilt - Remote Funeral Service for COVID-19 Quilt is a remote funeral service that uses a digital platform and video hardware to help people plan and hold a dignified dual in-person and virtual funeral for lost loved ones during COVID-19. Its customizable planning template system helps family members, funeral home staff, and clergy members easily and efficiently plan a funeral service. Users can sync to social media for posting obituary information, coordinating guest lists, and sending out invitations. By transferring audio-like singing and talking into personalized visual presentations for certain parts of the ceremony, Quilt enables on-site participants to experience the supportive presence of online guests. Designed by Benzhe Chen, Peggy (Mingyuan) Lee, Ruiying Xu, and Viola Huang of ArtCenter College of Design

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Warmth of Projection The Warmth of Projection thermometer aimed to eliminate the anxiety people experience when taking their temperature, especially during a pandemic. During use, the temperature is projected onto the user’s arm via an LED rather than on a display, shifting the user’s attention away from the coldness of a device and fear of the results. By reducing excessive attention on the thermometer and the outcome, it lends a sense of relaxation and warmth, especially at time when people are experiencing added stress. Designed by Yan Yue, Jiahao Yu, and Yan Li of College of Art and Design, Shanghai University of Engineering Science

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ZERO - Non touch contact lenses To avoid infection, people who use contact lenses must be sure to wash their hands and any assistive devices, like lens tweezers, every time they want to insert and remove their lenses. ZERO no-touch disposable contact lenses make wearing contact lenses easier and more hygienic. Each lens is housed in a blister pack. Once you open the packaging, drain the lens fluid, use your finger to pop up the lens, and lift it to your eye holding the convenient tab on the packaging. The lens sits on a raised base that ensures there is no contact between your fingers or the packing and your eye. Designed by Junsik Oh of Yeungnam Universi

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1. Cortec - Solar Park Service Robot Cortec is a service robot that increases the efficiency of solar farms. It solves the problems of a lack of service personnel and the high maintenance costs the exponentially growing solar industry experiences. The main part of the Cortec robot is the modular vehicle base on which tools for various tasks can be docked. The cleaning tool was the focus of this project as soiling leads to the most inefficiencies and the ongoing cleaning process offers enormous potential for cost and resource savings. The cleaning tool cleans the surface of the solar arrays with the help of water and brushes. A circular system with a filter ensures tremendous water savings. Designed by Lennart Blatt for Hochschule für Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd 2. Drift Lamp Drift Lamp is a renewable energy product that illuminates docks and bridges by using the tide. The lower part of the design consists of a turbine blade. The blade is protected by a floating enclosure unit that also protects the blade from impacts and damage. An extended arm continuously holds the floating enclosure unit at the correct depth underwater. Depending on the water level, the arm expands and contracts. Drift Lamp generates mechanical energy from the turbine blade, which generates electricity. By using naturally occurring energy as its power source, Drift Lamp reduces energy costs and saves energy at the same time. Designed by Haimo Bao, Wenhui Du, and Luhao Liu of School of Design, Dalian Minzu University; Shizhu Lu of Wuhan University of Technology; and Bin Xu of Tangshan Shangjiu Industrial Design Center (Tangshan Kun Kiln Ceramic Co., Ltd.) 3. Finger-tape - Braille Correction Device According to a world vision report published by the World Health Organization, the number of people with visual impairment or blindness has reached 2.2 billion globally. Due to the particularities of Braille writing, it is difficult to correct mistakes, and the market for Braille correction products is lacking. Finger-tape fills this gap. Through a few simple operations, Finger-tape generates a correction tape to cover the incorrect Braille. The semantics of the device were taken from everyday correction tape to enable people to clearly understand its function. The shape of the product was designed to make it easier for your fingers to use it. Designed by Tianyi Chen, Chaojie Hu, Yixuan Li, and Xuenan Zheng of Zhejiang University of Technology

4. Five Pieces of Wood Five Pieces of Wood is a portable chair that is assembled with a tenonand-mortise system. The surface of the seat is made of sackcloth to increase comfort. The horizontal support in the middle of the chair plays a very important role. It not only connects the front and rear legs but also locks the overall structure through the latch at the end. To disassemble the chair, simply remove the latch—no tools needed. The chair can also be stacked for space-efficient storage. Designed by Zhai Weimin and Chien-Hsiung Chen of National Taiwan University of Science and Technology

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5. Forest Guard Forest Guard is an intelligent unmanned forest-fire-fighting system. It cruises and monitors forests continuously for up to a month. When it finds a forest fire, it immediately and autonomously extinguishes it. The device is equipped with cameras and sensors to detect the fire. When one is found, it will fly closer and release drones to check it. Then it will assess the situation and start processing. It will release fire-extinguishing bombs with the assistance of drones. After the fire is extinguished, it will monitor the spot for 24 hours to prevent the fire from reviving. Designed by Jiahua Zhang, Kejun Li, and Fan Chen of Politecnico di Milano

6. GO-WALK GO-WALK is a modular mobile assistive device for dogs. According to the American College of Veterinary Surgeons, up to one-quarter of dogs will suffer from osteoarthritis during their lifetime. Joint problems are irreversible, requiring surgery or assistive equipment to help them walk. GO-WALK enables dogs to walk more easily, reducing the burden and strain on them. It is offered in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Each size can be adjusted to fit the dog’s body shape to provide maximum assistance. With its modular design, the owner can choose various accessories, such as a wheelchair or a strap, according to a dog’s needs. Designed by Wei-Chi Chen, Ching-Hsin Hsu, Ying-Cih Shao, and ShuQing Ou of Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology CREATIVE PRODUCT DESIGN 7. Modular Convenient Stove The Modular Convenient Stove is portable combination stove suitable for outdoor dining or a picnic. It is designed to suit the needs of different outdoor scenarios by combining both grilling and cooking functions. It is compact and handy. Cooking and barbecue can be carried out at the same time, which provides a richer picnic experience and enhances outdoor activities. Its modular design allows users to customize use scenarios, enabling a simpler and more convenient outdoor experience. Designed by Chen jiasheng, Wei haidong, Kuang shuoshuo, Li shun, and Huang haodong of Guilin University of Electronic Technologyi

8. Omnipotent Omnipotent is a smart forklift truck. Unlike a traditional integrated forklift truck, Omnipotent is designed in two parts: a separate movable balance module and a driving and operating module. This configuration enables it to have the flexible weighting and step-climbing function that a traditional forklift truck does not have. Omnipotent’s rear counterweight module was moved back to increase leverage to allow it to work smoothly under high load. At the same time, the dynamic balance-monitoring system monitors the forklift in real time. Under high load, it will automatically extend the rear weight module to prevent the forklift from overturning. Designed by Haimo Bao, Dongchen Sun, Runze Zhang, and Song Qiao of School of Design, Dalian Minzu University and Bin Xu of Tangshan Shangjiu Industrial Deisgn Center (Tangshan Kun Kiln Ceramic Co., Ltd.)

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9. QAED The best way to gain the confidence to use an automated external defibrillator (AED) to save someone’s life is AED training. However, AED training is complex. As a result, class size is limited, and training is costly. QAED is an AED training device concept that supports instructors throughout the teaching process. It collects and analyses participants’ performance and translates the results into guidelines for the instructor. The QAED app provides information about the most problematic tasks and points to the students who might require more attention. QAED increases the quality of the training and allows class size to be larger, making training more accessible to more people. Designed by Anna Gębala of Delft University of Technology for Laerdal Medical 10. Scylla Underwater Platform In underwater operations, divers must not only complete their work but also allow their ear pressure to recover within a limited time window, which shortens the actual operation time. The Scylla Underwater Platform solves this problem. It is designed as a three-platform structure for different stages: at the water surface, the shallow-water layer, and the deep-water layer. Each platform is equipped with a device capable of providing sufficient oxygen and heat for underwater operators. Divers can always go to the nearest auxiliary platform for supplement oxygen and heat where they can wait for their ear pressure to recover and then proceed to the next step. Designed by Haimo Bao, Jin He, Cheng Pan, and Kun Xu of School of Design, Dalian Minzu University and Bin Xu of Tangshan Shangjiu Industrial Design Center (Tangshan Kun Kiln Ceramic Co., Ltd.) 11. VIA - Handheld Printer & Scanner VIA, a handheld printer and scanner, is designed to reduce the pain points of conventional printing while bringing excitement to the process. VIA’s design reduces the footprint to 8.5 inches. By making the user the driving force behind the printer, paper jams are avoided and points of failure are lessened. VIA uses wide printhead technology so prints can be achieved in a single stroke. It can print on nearly any smooth, flat surface, allowing for optimized and creative uses, such as printing shipping labels directly on boxes. The touch screen provides simple interactions, guided printing, and print previews. Designed by Matthew Koscica, Jasmine Schubert, and Dylan Willis of Western Washington University

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ID E A 2 0 2 1 JUR Y

Susan McKinney | SKINNY

Enda O’Dowd | National College of Art and Design

Susan McKinney is an award-winning industrial designer and ceramic artist living in San Rafael, CA. She graduated from Arizona State University in 2007 with a BS in industrial design and soon after moved to California to design professionally. Following her passion for ceramics, she was awarded two international artist residencies in Greece and Denmark in 2016, and in 2019, she debuted a ceramic collection with top US retailer West Elm under her brand SKINNY, which she founded.

Enda O’Dowd is a lecturer in the Product Design Department at the National College of Art and Design (NCAD) in Dublin, Ireland, and joint course coordinator for the MSc Medical Device Design. The Medical Device Design course at NCAD is an innovative studio-based program that works with industry and medical professionals to design better devices and patient experiences. He is a strong advocate for studio education and applying science and technology in a humanled design process. With his keen interest in sustainability, he has integrated sustainability considerations into the teaching of materials and manufacturing at NCAD. Having coordinated modules in design thinking for the MBA at the UCD Smurfit School and sustainable product design at Maynooth University, he is interested in the design of new products, services, and business models for the circular economy.

Kathryn Mizuchi | Emergo by UL Kathryn Mizuchi is a senior user researcher on Emergo by UL’s humanfactors research and design team. In this role, she leads early research efforts to identify user needs and better understand the context of use as it relates to risk potential and overall user experience. In addition, she regularly conducts expert reviews of devices, labeling, and human-factors-engineering documents. Her role also involves advising manufacturers on best practices for human-factors validation, regulatory submissions, and developing user-centered products. In previous positions, she collaborated in all parts of the development cycle, from early research and ideation through iterative design and evaluation to design for manufacturing and verification/validation activities. She holds a BS in industrial design from the University of Cincinnati and has more than 10 years of professional experience developing medical devices and combination products to be used in both home and healthcare environments.

Donna Piacenza | Donna Piacenza Creative Donna Piacenza is an innovative product visionary with a 20-year career of repeated success, which includes housewares, tech, furniture, and consumer goods design. She’s a proven difference maker with a passion for understanding manufacturing processes and the why aspects of product design. A driven entrepreneur, she develops top-selling lines for major retailers, such as CB2, where she’s helped to bring over 50 products to market. Before launching her practice, she gained experience at firms in Chicago and San Francisco, envisioning future concepts for clients including CocaCola, Dell, Fiskars, Motorola, and Sony. Her professional accolades include IDEA, CES Innovation Awards, and Chicago Atheneum Good Design Awards, along with 15 US patents for innovation across the electronics, medical, and consumer packaged goods industries.

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Kevin Shankwiler, IDSA | Georgia Institute of Technology Kevin Shankwiler is a senior lecturer and undergraduate program coordinator for the School of Industrial Design at the Georgia Institute of Technology. He has a background in industrial design bolstered by eight years of full-time practice, 14 years of faculty experience, and an ongoing design consultancy. He has broad experience in product design and development with a specific focus on digital design processes and manufacturing. Design engagements include industrial goods, semiconductor manufacturing equipment, furniture, outdoor household goods, virtual prototyping and evaluation, and design expert witness work. As a dedicated member of IDSA, he currently serves as the representative for the Southern District and a faculty advisor for the Student Chapter at Georgia Tech. He also has held multiple leadership positions for the Atlanta Professional Chapter. Ayako Takase, IDSA | Observatory Ayako Takase is co-founder and design director of Observatory, an award-winning multidisciplinary design studio based in Providence, RI, which she founded in 2001 with partner Cutter Hutton. Observatory helps organizations and individuals design and develop exceptional objects and experiences while focusing on creatively answering the problems and needs of people. The firm’s projects range from furniture, tabletop products, and consumer goods to UX, UI, and strategy design for clients such as Herman Miller, Procter & Gamble, Keilhaur, and Bauer. As an assistant professor and graduate program director in the Department of Industrial Design at the Rhode Island School of Design, Takase teaches hands-on studios that focus on human-centric design, emotive design, and iterative design at the graduate and undergraduate levels.

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Mesve Vardar | Radyo Studio Mesve Vardar is an award-winning industrial designer and creative leader with over a decade of experience in the contract furniture industry. In her most recent role as director of industrial design at Humanscale, she was responsible for leading the development of research-based human-centered ergonomic products across all product categories. In her tenure, she has been behind many celebrated Humanscale products that have received international design awards. Among other pursuits, she continues to serve on the Design Advisory Board at Humanscale. She received her BA in art history and fine arts from New York University and has a MID from Pratt Institute. Drew Walcott | Dolby Laboratories Drew Walcott is an award-winning creator and innovator who is influenced by science, technology, craft, art, fashion, and culture. He enjoys creating delightful, holistic experiences that foster meaningful connections between brands, partners, and consumers. Walcott began his professional career in industrial design at the California College of the Arts and has since worked with cross-functional teams nationally and internationally, from Preston Bailey Inc. NYC and Frog San Francisco to Lunar Munich. Currently, he is a senior industrial designer at Dolby Laboratories, where he has worked since 2016.

Design Foundation Help creative minds discover talents, learn new skills, and prepare for a career in industrial design.

Design Foundation aims to increase access to industrial design education and create opportunities for young designers who are beginning their journey into the field. Through a focus on education as the starting point for a successful career in industrial design, Design Foundation helps to generate awareness of industrial design within the general public. Our programming connects professional members of the industrial design community, corporate partners, and academic institutions through charitable efforts that provide equitable access to education, networking opportunities, and other career-building resources for emerging designers studying at high schools and colleges across the United States. idsadesignfoundation.org INNOVATION FALL 2021

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F E A T UFRI NAL E D FI ST I NAL S I STS Featured Finalists are IDEA competition finalists that paid to be included in the Yearbook of Design Excellence.

AUTOMOTIVE & TRANSPORTATION 1. E-pit Ultra-Fast Charging Station This new electric vehicle charging station was designed to alleviate customer anxiety. To inform their work, the design team analyzed user charging journeys for different types of vehicles in various environments. Designed by Taewon Hong and Donghyun Kim of the Hyundai Design Center, Hyundai Design Innovation Group and Junghyun Cho and Jinyoung Kim of Citrus Design BRANDING 2. DL This visual identity features a logo that looks as if blocks of various shapes are gathered together, embodying the company’s vision to create new value by building and connecting the world. Designed by Sohee Kim of DL Holdings Co., Ltd.

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3. EASYDEW Branding Design This newly developed visual system was designed to be applied to various media, especially digital environments, to expand the brand experience and form a basis for consensus for spreading the brand messages. Designed by Hyunjung Yoon and Kyoungjin Yun of Daewoong Pharmaceutical Innovation Design Center for Dncompany

5. T Direct Shop Campaign Brand Identity The branding for the T Direct Shop includes the identity, the graphic style, a sense of color, and packaging to help users perceive the brand correctly and differentiate it from other brands in the online mobile phone market. Designed by Hui Kang Yea, Seungkwan Kang, Minhwa Lee, and Hyeona Kim of SK Telecom

4. Kitsch Cow Butcher Shop This artistic brand identity features Russia’s exotic architecture to lend a premium sensibility with a kitschy and elegant mood that distinguishes the brand from a traditional butcher shop. Designed by Yoona Lee of YNL Design for Motungi Woo

6. T Factory Brand Identity Design The brand identity for the T Factory transformed it into a lively, vibrant, and modern design that is more accessible to younger customers. Designed by Hui Kang Yea, Seungkwan Kang, Minhwa Lee, Kyuyoun Kim, and Hyeona Kim of SK Telecom

7. VELYS Digital Surgery Brand Each element of the brand corresponds to one another in form, function, and expression. The system was designed to be iconic, timeless, and flexible based on the idea of digital innovation. Designed by Johnson & Johnson Design and Elevate Healthcare 8. wyd The branding design for wyd, a new video commerce platform brand launched by Lotte Homeshopping, Korea’s leading TV home shopping service, promotes honest sharing between content makers and individual consumers. Designed by Plus X for LOTTE Homeshopping

CHILDREN’S PRODUCTS 9. Animal Dough Hair Playset Children love creating things with play dough. This playset contains different shaped holes for extruding hair so children can create fun options for animal hair. Designed by Dr. Yi-Teng Shih of PolyU Design and Jay Li, Vincent Mao, and Gana Xu of Ningbo MiroKids Toys Co., Ltd. for Joan Miro. 10. Breath Breath is a chair designed to accompany children as they grown, adjusting to meet their sitting needs at different ages. It is both comfortable and breathable. Designed by Lei Liu, Fan Xia, Zongwen Wang, and Zhixi Li of HengLin Home Furnishings Co.

11. Joy R153 Baby Car Seat This car seat ensures the safety and health of children with many features: a cocoon-shaped cockpit, an intelligent sensing system, a temperature control system, and an alarm. Designed by Ningbo Baby First Baby Products Co., Ltd. and D’Andrea & Evers Design B.V. COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL 12. ARRIS Skydio Aero structure This redesigned airframe replaces a 17-part assembly with a single multifunctional structure using Arris’s Additive Molding technology, providing the strength and stiffness of titanium at a fraction of the weight. Designed by ARRIS & Skydio

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13. CLOVA FaceSign CLOVA FaceSign uses facial recognition to quickly authorize people to enter a building, eliminating the need for them to show identification, such as a card or fingerprints. Designed by NAVER Corp. for NAVER Corp. 14. MARSMARCH ROBOT The MARSMARCH ROBOT is both a hotelsupplies delivery robot and a takeout delivery robot with its functions divided through its modular design.  Designed by Jiancheng Yang, Fei Wang, and Ye Zhu of Beijing Zhiqian Technology Co., Ltd. and Banghui Pan and Zhaoyang Yu of Shanghai Slamtec Co., Ltd.

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15. Milwaukee M18 Fuel™ Compact Vacuum The Compact Vacuum provides powerful performance and ultimate versatility to excel in small areas and spot-cleaning applications on the job site. Designed by Sanson Chan, Timothy Lee, and George Yu of Techtronic Product Development Ltd. and Lea Plato and Paul Rossetto of Milwaukee Electric Tool for Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation

17. SPRM Power Controller The SPRM Power Controller uses silicon-controlled rectifier thyristor semiconductors to control the electricity supply to adjust the temperature of an electric furnace or heater. Designed by Song Sunkyoung, Kim Donghwan, Kim Jaeyeon, Shin Bomin, and Cho Dohyun of Autonics Design Team for Autonics Corp.

16. RIDGID 18V grease gun The RIDGID 18v two-speed grease gun precisely lubricates heavy equipment. It was designed for automotive, agricultural, and mining worksites. Designed by Leon Yoong, Ohi Tac, Parel Thomas, Thomas Wong, Samantha Ho, Sober Ning Gang, and Liang Tian Liang of Techtronic Product Development for RIDGID

18. The Core Router The Core Router is a P-bit router that can help customers build a super-wide, simple, intelligent IP backbone network. Designed by Sun Zhen, Huangchun, Wan Zhicheng, Li Lei, and Zhang Chi of ZTE Corporation

19. WeChat Pay C1 WeChat Pay C1 is a new smart device for checkouts that can either be used on its own or integrated into existing POS systems, taking merchants’ digital business capabilities to a whole new level. Designed by WeChat Pay of Tencent Technology CONCEPTS & SPECULATIVE DESIGN 20. Calmo (Automatic Formula Milk) Calmo allows you to easily make baby formula with a simple, modern design that fits perfectly into any modern kitchen environment. Designed by YOUYEON CO., LTD, Federico Rossi and Giovanni Duro by ZAAF Design Italy

21. Linkboard Beyond traditional input devices that only enter commands, Linkboard collaborates with a variety of digital assets to support users’ work seamlessly and proactively without cluttering the workspace. Designed by Suhyun Na, Sunmi Jin, Seunghwan Choi, Shinjae Jung, and Seo Lee of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. 22. Mirion Design Language System The Mirion Design Language System establishes a consistent identity for all touchpoints and experiences while allowing for guided flexibility in developing new products. Designed by Mirion Technologies, Inc. & THRIVE

23. Outside the Box Outside the Box consists of a wooden box with 30 illustrated cards that help those diagnosed with type 2 diabetes learn healthier ways of living. Designed by Marcus Mustafa, Dominik Donocik, Marine Demeyere, Keith Bone, and Marcus Hoggarth of Native Design for Boehringer Ingelheim 24. TCL Flexband FLEXBAND is a small wearable smartphone with a flexible battery and dragon-hinge design that allows it to transform between being a smartphone and a watch. Designed by Global Design Center, JRD Communication (Shenzhen) LTD.

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CONSUMER TECHNOLOGY 25. A6Q Series MINILED TV The A6Q Series MINILED TV features a minimalist style while providing an immersive experience that meets the needs of modern users. Designed by Xiaomin Huang, Zeli Zheng, Yingwen Liang, Yong Jin, and Xiaozhen Chen of Shenzhen Konka Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. 26. HORIZON PRO: Smart Office All-in-one Display Product Design The HORIZON PRO is a commercial conference system that features an intelligent display terminal with a mobile stand, a writing pen, and a one-click smart screen connection system. Designed by Design Innovation Center for Shenzhen TCL New Technology Co. LTD

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27. HUAWEI VR Glass Breaking the mold for what virtual reality glasses are, HUAWEI features a lightweight, sleek, and stylish foldable design that you can wear like a pair of large sunglasses. Designed by Huawei Device Co., Ltd.

29. iFLYTEK SmartPen S10 SmartPen S10 is a language-learning tool that can help children quickly query Chinese and English words, whether written or voice. Designed by Yuling Song, Chen Zhu, Jibo Zhai, Xinzhen Xie, and Hesheng Wu of IFLYTEK CO., LTD.

28. IFLYREC B1 This smart voice recorder offers up to one hour of recording and real-time transcription and translation in five minutes with an accuracy rate is as high as 98%. Designed by Songquan Yang, Chen Zhu, Chengjie Shen, Ming Li, and Wei Wang of Anhui Iflyrec Co., Ltd.

30. KODA Robot Dog KODA is an advanced robot dog used as a family companion, a seeing-eye dog, or a guard dog to patrol a property. It has four 3D surround-view cameras and 14 motors, including the neck and tail, which give it dog-like gestural qualities. Designed by Akifusa Nakazawa, Wei Gu, Dan Harden, IDSA, and Sungbum Park of Whipsaw, Inc. for Delu Dynamics Technology Co, Ltd

31. Lenovo Yoga AIO 7 The Lenovo Yoga AIO 7 is an all-in-one personal desktop computer with a 4K rotatable display, allowing users, especially digital content creators, to work on both landscape and portrait content efficiently. Designed by Lenovo Experience Design Group 32. Pocket cloud computer W100 W100 is a cloud computer small enough to fit in a pocket. It is less than half the size of a mobile phone and weighs less than 100 grams. Designed by Chen Danyu, Huangchun, Wan Zhicheng, Zhang Zhiqian, and Zhang Chi of ZTE Corporation

33. PowerShot ZOOM This pocket-size telescope-type digital camera enables you to observe and capture defining moments in sports and wild birds from afar. Designed by Yusuke Hokari and Mayu Asano of Design Center for Canon Inc.

35. QooCam 8K Enterprise QooCam 8K Enterprise is a 360-degree camera that can achieve both 8K live streaming and 8K capturing. Its photosensitive area is 1.5 times that of a 2.3-inch sensor. Designed by Tom Tam of KanDao Technology Co., Ltd.

34. PowerStudio 300 In areas prone to natural disasters, the PowerStudio 300 makes for an outstanding backup power supply, and the solar panels allow for the ultimate off-grid experience. Designed by Xinlong Wei and Yongzhu Li of Industrial Design Center for Aukey Technology Co., Ltd.

36. Roku Streambar The Roku Streambar turns a regular TV into a smart TV with great sound by integrating streaming technology and Dolby Audio into a compact unit that fits neatly under the TV. Designed by Fred Bould, IDSA, Jeremy Wolf, IDSA, and Jamie Perin of Bould Design for Roku

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37. Solgaard Solarbank Boombox The Solarbank Boombox features both micro-USB charging and solar panels on the back that auto charges in direct sunlight, providing two hours of music from one hour of sun. Designed by Hatch Duo LLC for Solgaard 38. ThinkPad X1Fold ThinkPad Fold is a folding 13.3-inch OLED display laptop designed to adapt to mobile lifestyles. It folds in half around an inductively charged keyboard that is also home to a stylus. Designed by Lenovo EDG

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39. V5 Series OLED TV The V5 Series OLED TV features an extremely slim 2.9-millimeter borderless screen design, high resolution, and dual-channel bionic acoustics and surging surround sound to create an immersive audio-visual experience. Designed by Xiaomin Huang, Liang Li, Qiang Li, Yong Jin, Xiaozhen Chen, and Shenzhen Konka Electronic Technology Co., Ltd. 40. Vestaboard In an age where everywhere you look another LCD display is foisting unwanted information, Vestaboard is a digitally controlled yet mechanical split-flap display designed to connect and inspire people. Designed by Bould Design for Vestaboard

DESIGN STRATEGY 41. VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution Experience Brand Language The experience brand language for the VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution communicates and amplifies its four differentiating innovative advantages: system core technology, faster procedure time, empowering the surgeon as the master craftsman, and its modularity and smaller footprint. Designed by Johnson & Johnson Design DIGITAL INTERACTION 42. BEYREP’s EQ Check-In The EQ Check-In increases emotional intelligence in the home improvement industry by preventing users from communicating messages they might later regret by assessing the tone and sentiment of the message and prompting users to reflect. Designed by Grace Tsao Mase of BEYREP, Inc.

43. eLife Smart Home This platform is more than just a home network solution that controls smart devices; it provides smart residential complexes, including homes and communities, with human-centric intelligence features driven by AI technology. Designed by Kukhyun Yoon, Juyong Eom, Hyemi Moon, Jungeol Bae, and Leezm Interactive for DL E&C

45. IoT Studio, One-Stop IoT Application Building Platform. IoT Studio is a platform through which users can build IoT applications to meet the requirements of various fields of IoT applications with a higher visual quality and better user experience. Designed by Yunfei He, Wei Zhao, Ruihang Tian, Wenzheng Qu, and IoT DESIGN

44. inOS This smart control center controls all loT devices in a home through a natural, familiar user interface with knob, touch, app, and voice controls. Designed by Houlong Li of Ruying Tech

46. Sage HyperCycle ML The HyperCycle ML is a machine-learning platform for users without a machine-learning background. Users can create an AI application to improve their business performance just by following the four-step methodology. Designed by Wang Kai, Li Zhangyu, Tang Jizheng, Xu Yun, and Wang Wei of 4Paradigm Inc.

47. VELYS Robotic Assisted Solution Digital Experience The VELYS Robotic Assisted Solution digital user interface is a step-by-step procedural guide that assists operating room staff and surgeons through setup, the procedure, and teardown. Designed by Johnson & Johnson Design and DePuy Synthes ENVIRONMENTS 48. ACRO PARK EDITION: Green promenade with Garden Collection This landscape solution features the Green Promenade for residents and the public alike with artwork and natural ornaments; the Green Wall, a sylvan boundary dividing the public and private spaces; and the Lobby Garden just for residents. Designed by Seon Cho, Han-suk Kim, and Jungeun Lee of Openness Studio, DONGSIMWON

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49. Jeungpyeong Archives The Jeungpyeong Archives collects, preserves, and celebrates the history of the Jeungpyeong district. Rather than a design that is records-focused, it is conceptual, symbolic, and artistic. Designed by TaeHyun Kim, MyungSun Kim, NaYoung Kim, HongPhil Jeon, and YooRim Shin and Curation the-X Inc. Design Somnium Co., Ltd., Offerscent

FURNITURE & LIGHTING 51. SET This modular customized bed system not only satisfies the space requirements of the complex layout of houses in China, but it also improves product quality, cost, and performance. Designed by Wang Liping, Chen Huibin, and Hua Nianzhou of Songlin Home Furnishing Co., Ltd

53. DXV Oculus Faucet The DXV Oculus Faucet celebrates the pure experience of water. The metal blade protruding from the wall comes alive as the user approaches it, creating a gentle vortex of water that draws the user in. Designed by Jean-Jacques L’Henaff, Gabriela Ravassa, and Christophe Bucher of AMERICAS DXV / GROHE / American Standard Brands

50. SIPG Xingjiang Bay Sales Center The interior design of this real estate sales center is permeated with Zaha Hadid’s idea of flowing curves, visually connecting and echoing the roof, columns, and floors by linking the curves in three dimensions. Designed by Xiaojun Lin of Shanghai E-Building Construction Design Engineering Co., Ltd. for SIPG Ruixiang Real Estate Development Co., Ltd.

HOME 52. Columbia Air Purifier (AP-1720H) The AP-1720H is a specialized interior air purifier to clean spaces of 50 square meters. It is designed to look like furniture or art rather than a home appliance. Designed by Miyoun Kyoung and Yeonji Yu of COWAY Co. Ltd and directed by Hyunjoo Song of COWAY Co. Ltd.

54. Fountain Head Plus Bathtub The Fountain Head Plus Bathtub enables an immersive bathing experience, transforming a bathroom into a luxurious at-home spa. Designed by Kohler Design Studio

IDSA.ORG

55. KOHLER Family Care Toilet Set The Family Care Toilet Set features a powerful flush system with one-touch washing, a wireless flush button, and a rotatable grab bar. Designed by Kohler Design Studio 56. Magic Panels Magic Panels meets all user needs for home control through the combination of switch sockets and different control panels. It simplifies complicated, messy control panels into a unified modular combination. Designed by Shucong Wang, Xiang Li, Jianming Du, and Mingxian Chen of Shanghai Liangxin Electrical Co., Ltd.

57. Neoroc Decorative Apron Front Kitchen Sink The Neoroc Apron Front Kitchen Sink is offered in two decorative patterns, a faceted and a fluted design, molded into the apron front with an integrated towel hook. Designed by Kohler Design Studio 58. Q Series / A.I. Home Solutions The Q Series performs the role of a complex information appliance that provides all kinds of AI home services, such as crime prevention and safety, video calls, and IoT functionality. Designed by Seungbae LEE of COMMAX Co., Ltd.

59. Rêver Forest Solid Shampoo and Conditioner Set Rêver Forest is a solid shampoo and conditioner set made with natural botanical extracts. They are shaped into different trees so users can easily identify them by touch while bathing. Designed by Qifang Dai and Peng Ye of Polyvoly Technology (Wuhan) Co., Ltd. 60. Shunzao ultralight vacuum cleaner Lighter, smaller, and more energy-efficient, the Shunzao ultralight vacuum cleaner features powerful suction action that doesn’t overwhelm your ears. Designed by Fei Duan and Zhongren Fu of Beijing Shunzao Technology Co., LTD

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61. Underscore Wall-mount Heater The Underscore Wall-mount Heater is a series of electronic clothes and towel warmers that can be customized to various room requirements and user needs. Designed by Kohler Design Studio 62. wave pot The wave pot is a water purifier for pets that not only takes into consideration the pets’ needs but their humans’ needs as well. Designed by duit design lab의 SANG HYUK KIM, TAE HYOUNG KIM, BOMI KIM

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LIFESTYLE & ACCESSORIES 63. ILE Reusable Fabric Mask The ILE Reusable Fabric Mask functions at the level of an N95 mask, even when it is washed more than 10 times, and is reusable for three to six months. Designed by Sangki Suh, Changkyun Kim, Sunghee Lim, Sunhye Son, Jaeyoung Jun, and Seolhae Jo of Korea OGK Co., LTD 64. Theunique Smart Agarwood Aroma Diffusor This portable, smart agarwood incense diffusor creates an immersive aroma experience with increased durability, efficiency, stability, and safety. Designed by Mengting Zhang of the Macau University of Science and Technology and Xiaolin Li and Chunxu Yang of the Guangzhou Theunique Biotech Co., Ltd. for Theunique Bio-Technology Co., Ltd

65. Theunique Vehicle-mounted Smart Agarwood Aroma Diffusor This vehicle-mounted smart agarwood incense diffusor creates an immersive aroma experience with increased durability, efficiency, stability, and safety. Designed by Li Xiaolin and Yang Chunxu of Guangzhou Theunique Biotech Co., Ltd. and Dr. Zhang Mengting of the Macau University of Science and Technology for Theunique Bio-Technology Co., Ltd MEDICAL & HEALTH 66. Baxter EASYGRIP FLO-41 The EASYGRIP FLO41 is a one-handed laparoscopic applicator designed for targeted delivery and dosage of a flowable hemostatic agent to stop or mitigate unintended bleeding during surgery. Designed by Jake Schubert, Frank Busch, Karl Vanderbeek, Jerry Schafer, and John Burke of Kaleidoscope Innovation for Baxter

67. COPA: Computerized Oral Prescription Management System The COPA System is a virtual care and prescription drug management system designed to become the standard of care in personalized medication delivery and adherence monitoring. Designed by HS Design and Sterling Medical Devices for Berkshire Biomedical 68. EmbracePlus EmbracePlus is the world’s most powerful, compact, and versatile health smartwatch. A collection of onboard sensors and custom algorithms mean that EmbracePlus can be used to remotely and continuously monitor a broad range of physiological data and conditions, ranging from epilepsy to chronic stress. Designed by Whipsaw, Inc. and Empatica

69. KARE: Mobile Clinic Module The Mobile Clinic Module is a modular negative pressure ward system that can be quickly deployed and set up in emergency situations, like a pandemic. Designed by KAIST CIDR Lab, Zoslee Studio, and 20PLUS Co., Ltd. for KAIST 70. Miro Canvas Miro Canvas is a compact, digital microfluidics platform that enables the automation of complex laboratory protocols without the need for costly robotics or a steep learning curve. Designed by Ari Turgel, Brian Leach, Britt Jensen, and Ricardo Verheul of Whipsaw, Inc. for Miroculus

71. My Lung Health | Asthma Research Study My Lung Health is a research study app created to detect asthma exacerbations and changes in asthma control through mobile and wearable technology. Designed by the Digital Health Lab of Samsung Research America 72. Omnicell Narcotic Syringe Dispenser The Omnicell Narcotic Syringe Dispenser securely dispenses syringes filled with narcotics or dangerous drugs that must be controlled using a dispenser box that holds 26 refillable syringes. Designed by Mickey McKay, Ariel Turgel, IDSA, Mark Hearn, and Elisa Payer of Whipsaw, Inc. for Omnicell

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73. SprintRay Pro Wash/Dry SprintRay Pro Wash/Dry is an all-in-one, automated, two-stage system for washing and drying parts fabricated using resin 3D printers. Designed by Hossein Bassir, Amir Mansouri, Tim Tian, Alex Ye, and Hang Ye of SprintRay Inc.

75. VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution The VELYS Robotic-Assisted Solution simplifies knee replacement surgery with a table-mounted solution that integrates into any operating room. Designed by Johnson & Johnson Design, IDHF, and DePuy Synthes

74. Umbrella Stone Basket In urethra endoscopic lithotripsy, when the stones in the ureter are crushed by lasers or other devices, the Stone Basket captures the rubble and takes it to the bladder, where it is then excreted by the human body. Designed by MicroPort Design Center and MicroPort UroCare Medical

OFFICE & ACCESSORIES 76. U50 series The U50 Series is a chair that fills any space, from an office to a library, with a vibrant and lively atmosphere through its sensible design and various color compositions. Designed by Ban Haesung and Lee Youngjin of bestuhl Co., Ltd.

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77. X-Acto Sharpener Range: School Pro, Teacher Pro, Quiet Pro, Mighty Pro, Powerhouse, XLR The X-Acto Sharpener Range is portfolio of pencil sharpeners with features like large bins, auto-size adjustment, and quiet operation. Designed by Newell Brands Design OUTDOOR & GARDEN 78. Coleman OneSource Collection With the Coleman OneSource Collection, a single battery can charge an entire ecosystem of Coleman camping essentials, including lanterns, flashlights, tents, a pump, and a fan, as well as phones and tablets. Designed by Newell Brands Design

79. Ember Stove Ember Stove is an ultra-efficient pocket stove designed for easy use and excellent heating performance that allows you to dish up tasty meals on the move. Designed by Sabrina Png Qi Hui and Team of Ember Stove LLP 80. NITECORE NWE30 Emergency Electronic Whistle The NITECORE NWE30 is an ultra-compact emergency electronic whistle with an easily operable twist-and-buzz interface. It also emits an omnidirectional beacon signal. Designed by Siman Lee, June Lai, Zhong Shicong, and Wang Xi of SYSMAX Innovations Co., Ltd.

81. Pet Backpack The Pet Backpack offers plenty of space for your pet to comfortably sit. It is light and breathable and can be folded and stored when not in use. Designed by Haoyang Song of pidan 82. RYOBI 18v ONE + Brushless Secateurs The RYOBI Brushless 18v ONE + Secateurs are the powerful, compact, and lightweight answer to effortless pruning around your garden. Designed by Wing Li, Frankie Lam, and Cater Wong of Techtronic Design Asia

PACKAGING 83. Liquid Medicine Assistant The Liquid Medicine Assistant simplifies the medicine bottle for the visually impaired. They can access precise doses of their medication by spinning and pressing the bottle. Designed by Guoqiang Wang, Huijiao Jin, Songyu Meng, and Qi Qiu of Shenzhen Fonu Industrial Product Design Co., Ltd. for Ningbo Zuobiao Creative Technology Co., Ltd. 84. Minimax - Jungle The recyclable pulp packaging for the Minimax children’s dietary supplement brand is shaped like a toy bag that children will want to reuse and possibly even personalize as the surface is ideal for drawing on. Designed by Jung Woo Kim and Min Jun Choi of Dong A Pharm

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85. Mirinda Unexpected Combo Winter LTO The Mirinda Unexpected Combo was designed across 10 cans: five faces and five torsos for 25 possible combinations. Consumers get to mix and match to create their winter avatar. Designed by PepsiCo Design & Innovation 86. Paris Croissant Packaging Renewal Design The designers of the packaging design for Paris Croissant, a Korean bakery brand, mixes art deco frames with san-serif initials to remind consumers of a chic fashion brand. Designed by the Design Center of Paris Croissant

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87. Pepsi x China’s People’s Daily New Media Pepsi and China’s People’s Daily New Media joined to launch commemorative can designs that celebrate the medical staff, workers, volunteers, and delivery persons who have been fighting on the frontlines of the pandemic every day. Designed by PepsiCo Design & Innovation 88. Sunbites China Yogurt Bites The packaging for Sunbites China Yogurt Bites, kids’ snack with freeze-dried fruit, yogurt, and probiotics, turns snack time into a snack experience with interactive mix-and-match pouches and word puzzles. Designed by PepsiCo Design & Innovation

89. Teatra Premium Package Design The packaging for Teatra’s new premium line uses storytelling that arouses emotional inspiration by expressing the flavor and taste of each product. Designed by Inhouse Design Team: Junnie Park (Creative Director), Yeahee Ahn, Taewoo Kim, and Jaeun Chung 90. Triptych of Lune Avocado Hair Care Box The packaging for this line of hair care products adopted the shape of an avocado to convey that the ingredients contain avocado extracts, a superb cosmetic ingredient. Designed by Yuchen Wang, Yue Chen, and Peng Ye of Polyvoly Technology (Wuhan) Co., Ltd.

91. Wuyi rock tea·five-element of series The packaging suggests the essence of traditional Chinese tea culture with the five elements in a design that is easy to open. Designed by Miaohua Chen, Mingyu Chen, Peng Li, Liangyi Tao, Huifang Sun, Wenbin Xie, Xiaoli Jiang, Yong Chen, Zhifeng Peng, and Yuhui Zhai for Zhongshan Torch Polytechnic·Miaohua Chen’s Packaging Design Master Studio 92. XIQINGYUAN WINE This series of wine bottles, which are mainly used for wedding banquets, uses dark blue and red to represent the roles of the bride and groom respectively. Designed by Miaohua Chen and Mingyu Chen for FUJIAN PROVINCIAL HUAYI DESIGNING CO., LTD.

SOCIAL IMPACT DESIGN 93. Human Friendly™ Mug This affordable coffee mug was designed to fit every hand, regardless of its shape or capabilities, reinforcing the idea that the products we use every day should be designed with everyone in mind. Designed by Amin Hasani and Jed Tango

95. 8BitDo SN30 Pro Bluetooth Controller for Android The 8BitDo SN30 game controller integrates most of the classic elements of a controller, improving ergonomics to better serve the user’s habit of gameplay. Designed by Weiling Li, Huijiang Tan, and Chuankun Li of GWOWO Technology Co. Ltd.

SPORTS, LEISURE & RECREATION 94. 8BitDo Arcade Stick When you switch between Switch and PC mode, the Arcade Stick’s dynamic button layout instantly changes its visual layout. It also features customizable button mapping and macros. Designed by Weiling Li, Huijiang Tan, and Chuankun Li of GWOWO Technology Co. Ltd.

96. NeuroTennis NeuroTennis is a wearable tennis coach with builtin sensors that are capable of identifying patterns and movements during play. The device provides real-time audible coaching targeted to specific training goals. Designed by Bresslergroup

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100

97. Vibration Fascia Device (K-ONE) This portable professional fascia gun can massage deep fascia, relax muscle groups, and prevent fascia adhesion and lactic acid accumulation. Designed by Dashuai Hu of Dongguan Qinghuo Technology Co., Ltd. for Dongguan XiQin Electrical Appliances Co., Ltd. STUDENT 98. Airable The Airable face mask uses an air curtain that absorbs air from the surrounding area and forms an external barrier to block harmful substances while expelling exhaled air to make it easier to breathe. Designed by Wonho Lee, Hyein Park, Seulgee Kim, and Sungchan Ko of Hongik University

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99. Pathfinder Pathfinder is an electric two-wheeled vehicle that can help wheelchair users explore the road. With the app, wheelchair users can view nearby barrier-free facilities and obstacle tips. Designed by Xudong Ca, Sian Che, Chengyuan Chen, Yuan Chen, and Xiying Xu of Guangdong University of Technology 100. Sanair To prevent the spread of COVID in airports, Sanair is an air sanitizer that sprays nontoxic hypochlorous acid, an all-natural sanitizing mist, inside the airport airbridge to sanitize people and their luggage. Designed by Sungjik Kim, Jordan Taylor, and Yizhang Liu of The New School, Parsons School of Design

I D E A 2 0 2 1 I NDE X OF WI NNE R S

FIRM

PRODUCT

AWARD

AAC Technologies

Haptic - Making the Visually Impaired Feel the UI

Gold

100

Ammunition

Gantri X Ammunition Lighting Collections

Silver

112

Powerbeats Pro

Silver

170

Aplat

Origami Face Mask

Gold

132

ArtCenter College of Design

PAGE

Elves - Shinola Camping Accessory Set

Silver

182

Quilt - Remote Funeral Service for COVID-19

Silver

185

Aruliden

Google Meet Hardware – Series One

Silver

Aston University

Circular Plastics – Returning Waste to Use in Africa

Silver

166 154

Atlas PMG

Pellet Joe

Silver

Aukey Technology Co., Ltd.

Alpha 85S Jump Starter

Bronze

Beijing Ruying Tech. Limited

inSight

Bronze

Belkin

Belkin BOOST CHARGE PRO 3-in-1 Wireless Charger with MagSafe 15W

Bronze

bestuhl Co., Ltd.

LAY

Bronze

150

Blackmagic Design

Blackmagic Fairlight Desktop Console

Silver

Blokable

Blokable at Phoenix Rising

Gold

106

Bollé

Bollé RYFT

Bronze

173

BOLTGROUP

Oransi Mod

Bronze

130

Bould Design

R-Zero Arc

Bronze

145

Fi Smart Collar

Bronze

155 145

Box Clever inc.

Vave Health Handheld Ultrasound

Bronze

Canoo

The Multi-Purpose Delivery Vehicle

Silver

Card79

Sepura Home Composting Garbage Disposal Unit

Gold

122

Ceek Women's Health

Nella NuSpec Reusable Vaginal Speculum

Gold

136

Comcast

Xfinity Eco Capsule for Xfinity Streaming Box and Xfinity Gateway Products

Gold

156

Convergence Medical Sciences

Valence InVent Xtend

Bronze

145

COWAY Co Ltd.

Noble Series(AP-1521B / AP-2021A / AP-3021D)

Bronze

130

Dalian Minzu University

Delft University of Technology

Drift Lamp

Bronze

188

Scylla Underwater Platform

Bronze

190

Omnipotent

Bronze

189

QAED

Bronze

190

Delve

Badger Shield Open Source PPE

Gold

164

Design Prosody

Burch Barrel

Bronze

135

DL E&C

All New Stylelec

Bronze

128

duit design lab

Water Pot & The Table

Silver

127

Eargo, Inc

Ergobaby

Eargo Neo Hearing Aids and Charger Case

Bronze

Eargo Neo Hearing Aids and Charger Case

Jury Chair’s Award

Eargo Neo Hearing Aids and Charger Case

People’s Choice

Ergobaby Aerloom FormaKnit Stretch Baby Carrier

Silver

Essential Design

Union & Scale Workplace Furnishings Packaging System

Bronze

160

Exergy Solutions

Valence InVent Xtend

Bronze

145

Fades to Nothing

Refillable Floss Pick

Silver

143

FBGPG

Nebia by Moen Spa Shower

Gold

118

Feiz Design Studio

Level Touch - The Invisible Smart Lock

Gold

Level Touch - The Invisible Smart Lock

Curator’s Choice

Level Bolt - The Invisible Smart Lock

Gold

INNOVATION FALL 2021

211

I D E A 2 0 2 1 I NDE X OF WI NN ERS FIRM

PRODUCT

AWARD

Fitbit

Fitbit Stress Management Experience

Bronze

105

Fitbit Sustainable Packaging

Silver

158 173

Fitbit Inspire 2

Bronze

Formfuture

Juno Bassinet - Pop-up bed for newborn babies

Bronze

Foshan CHARTERHOUSE Electrical Appliances Co.,Ltd.

Electric Cooking Package

Bronze

128 131

FOSHAN SHUNDE MIDEA ELECTRICAL HEATING APPLIANCES MFG.Co.,Ltd.

Toshiba Air Purifier Series

Bronze

FUJIFILM Corporation

FUJIFILM X100V

Bronze

Gearhead Associates

Nella NuSpec Reusable Vaginal Speculum

Gold

94 136

Ggumbi

All Star Wood Cot Bed

Bronze

Guangdong Bright Dream Robotics Co., Ltd.

BDR100-20

Gold

Geko G100 - Automatic Wall Putty Grinding Robot

Bronze

Guilin University Of Electronic Technology

Modular Convenient Stove

Bronze

189 150

Haworth Design Studio

Pergola

Bronze

Hefei Toycloud Technology Co., Ltd

AlphaEgg SmartPen Q3

Bronze

HengLin Home Furnishings Co.

Fitter

Silver

149 188

Hochschule für Gestaltung Schwäbisch Gmünd

Cortec - Solar Park Service Robot

Bronze

HONGJI

ST-One

Silver

HUGE Design LLC

SPOT Gen4 Global Satellite GPS Messenger

Silver

171

Huskyfox

idus

Silver

Hyundai Card

The Korean Air X Hyundai Card Credit Card Design

Silver

MX BOOST

Bronze

Hyundai Design Center

Hyundai IONIQ 5

Gold

ILOOM

JEROME

Gold

110

Inition Inc

Mobile Clinic Module Control UI/UX

Bronze

105

Interwoven Design Group, LLC

Apex Exosuit

Gold

Jefferson University

Swell Surf Foot

Gold

178

Jiangnan University

OPlay—Medical Product for Children with Asthma

Silver

184

JYCStudio

24 FRAMES OF LIGHTWELL

Silver

108 105

KAIST CIDR Lab.

Mobile Clinic Module Control UI/UX

Bronze

KanDao Technology Co.,Ltd.

Kandao Obsidian Pro

Bronze

KEM STUDIO

Tempo

Bronze

150

Kohler

Avoir Tankless Toilet

Silver

124

KOHLER Flexispace Bathtub

Bronze

129

Kris Lin International Design

White Mountain Club House

Bronze

109

Lamb Industries Limited

CMR Surgical - Versius Surgical Robotic System

Bronze

145

Landscape Forms

Americana

Bronze

114

LG Electronics

27ART10

Gold

116

Loft Design

212

PAGE

360 Air Purifier

Bronze

128

Gallery Stand

Bronze

129

QP5

Bronze

131

WashTower with Center Control

Bronze

131

Allergy Amulet

Silver

140

Rebel

Silver

142

Loftwall

Tempo

Bronze

150

Loll Designs

Americana

Bronze

114

Loughborough University

Circular Plastics – Returning Waste to Use in Africa

Silver

166

Luum Textiles

Collective Conscious

Silver

148 162

MADO

Service Meet Service: A toolkit to support to youth victims of sex trafficking

Silver

Microsoft

Xbox Adaptive Controller

Gold

Xbox Adaptive Controller

Best in Show

Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller

Gold

Xbox Series X

Silver

Xbox Wireless Controller

Silver

Milwaukee Tool

MX Fuel Equipment Strategy

Gold

M12 Fuel Hatchet Pruning Saw

Gold

152

MIUI Design Team

MIUI Nature Sound System

Silver

102

IDSA.ORG

FIRM

PRODUCT

AWARD

PAGE

National Taiwan University of Science and Technology

Five Pieces of Wood

Bronze

188

NAVER Corp.

CLOVA Lamp

Gold

Neolix Technologies Co., Ltd.

NEOLIX X3

Bronze

Newell Brands Design

Century Brand Identity Program

Gold

Ningbo Fonu Industrial Product Design Co., Ltd.

Safety Welder

Silver

Northumbria University

Sentinel - Outbreak Bio-reconnaissance

Gold

176

Parsons School of Design

TômTex

Gold

180

PDR

Shield

Bronze

Pella Corporation

Pella Easy-Slide Operator

Gold

120

84 134

PENSA

Zero Halliburton Pursuit Aluminum Luggage

Silver

Philips Experience Design

LOTUS - Next generation Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

Gold

M2 ICU - Mobile Medical Intensive Care Unit

Bronze

Healthdot

Silver

141

Radiology Operations Command Center (ROCC)

Bronze

163

Politecnico di Milano

Forest Guard

Bronze

189

quip

Refillable Floss Pick

Silver

143 168

Ride Awake AB

Awake RÄVIK S

Gold

Samsung

Bot Public

Silver

Mobile Window

Silver

QN900A, Neo QLED 8K

Silver

The Frame (2021 release)

Bronze

The Premiere (LSP9T) 4K Smart Triple Laser Projector

Bronze

Design Frame

Silver

SmartThings Cooking

Silver

103

BESPOKE Air Purifier AX9500N

Silver

125

BESPOKE Stick VS6800

Silver

126

BESPOKE 4-Door Flex Refrigerator

Bronze

128

Shanghai University of Engineering Science

Warmth of Projection

Silver

186

Shenzhen explore home Industrial Design Co., Ltd

Double Scissors

Gold

146

Shenzhen Oceanwing Smart Innovation Co., Ltd

Eufy H30 Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Bronze

129

Shizhu Lu of Wuhan University of Technology

Drift Lamp

Bronze

188

Sony Interactive Entertainment

PlayStation 5

Silver

Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology

GO-WALK

Bronze

189

STEL

CXN ONE

Gold

Studio Urquiola

Pergola

Bronze

Sunbrella

RETWEED

Silver

113

SuperDeep Studio

Service Meet Service: A toolkit to support to youth victims of sex trafficking

Silver

162 155

150

Techtronic Design

RYOBI 18V EZ Reach Pole Attachment System

Bronze

The Fuel

Curve

Silver

THRIVE

Mirion AccuRad Personal Radiation Detector (PRD)

Silver

73 183

University of Notre Dame

MYO - Mix Your Own Household Cleaners

Silver

Verkada

Verkada Access Control

Bronze

Virginia Tech

Moove

Gold

75 174

Visby Medical

Visby Medical COVID-19 Test

Silver

144

Western Washington University

VIA - Handheld Printer & Scanner

Bronze

190

Whipsaw, Inc.

WorldVent Volunteer Team

Uber Beacon

Silver

Bizzy and Martian

Silver

KoniKore

Bronze

145

WorldVent Ventilator

Gold

138

Xiamen Solex High-tech Industries Co.,Ltd.

D-cloud

Bronze

114

Xiaomi inc.

Haptic - Making the Visually Impaired Feel the UI

Gold

100

Xiaomi Mobile Software Co.,Ltd

Mijia K10 Wireless Vacuum Cleaner

Bronze

130

Yakima Products

CBX Solar Cargo Box

Silver

172

Yeungnam University

ZERO - Non touch contact lenses

Silver

187

YFY Jupiter

Sonos Arc Packaging

Silver

159

Zhejiang University of Technology

Finger-tape - Braille Correction Device

Bronze

188

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L E A D E RSHI P

THE ROAD TO DESIGN LEADERSHIP “Great generalists provide a template for the development of a more enlightened

and complete society where aesthetics and civility are considered as important as

specialization and technology, where quality and value are pursued in place of deception and greed, restraint and efficiency are valued more than excess and waste, wisdom is respected more than cleverness, and above all, where ethics and truth are more

”

common than deception and self-interest.

—Niels Diffrient, FIDSA

hile academic models do a wonderful job at creating amazing designers, the current pace of technology advancement and the speed at which things are moving is creating an ever-increasing chasm between the skills mastered and the skills needed. Time and time again, the industry reflects on the missing skills of designers today. Don’t dismay; change is coming! Initiatives like the Future of Design Education Initiative, by the World Design Organization, IBM Design, and the UC San Diego Design Lab, are focused on remaking design education for the 21 century. Most of these designers begin their careers as passionate and skilled makers and doers, developing market solutions for the masses. At some point, they find themselves at a proverbial fork in the road: Do they continue doing design (the what, which most often has limited potential for career advancement), or steer toward managing people and processes (the how), which can eventually lead to leading business and market strategy (the why)? Most designers are often unaware of or unprepared for this journey into unknown territory.

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If we take for granted that we are living both in the age of the experience and the Anthropocene, this adds tremendous pressure to designers today who can no longer just act as stylists or simply create beautiful objects in a vacuum. If, in fact, everything is an experience—where a physical or digital product is where the manifestation of that experience takes place enabled by a service—then everything is now connected. As we repeatedly heard during the IDSA Sustainability Deep Dive this past June and is supported by many studies, approximately 90% of a product’s lifecycle costs are determined in the initial 10% of the product development process. This is where design takes place, so designers no longer have the luxury of ignoring downstream operations or the unintended consequences of their decisions. Throwing things over the fence is no longer an option. Becoming a Design Leader Once you set out on this journey, the sooner you realize it is meant to be one of continuous improvement, the better it will be for you. Everything is not only connected but also

BMW LEGO Philips

Unilever Nestle Haier

Design as strategy (focus: consumer and business effectiveness)

- design is managed internally, executed internally by a design function + outsourced - design director/VP design is reporting to CMO/CTO or CEO

Design as process (focus: business efficiency and brand consistency)

- design is executed internally or outsourced to external agencies - design is managed by an internal design management function reporting to marketing or R&D

Design as styling (focus: creativity)

Supplier

Mars Staples

- design is led, managed, executed mainly internally by a design function - CDO is reporting to CMO/CTO or CEO

Partner

Roca Adidas Samsung

Design as leadership (focus: business growth)

Integrator

Design maturity level

- design is mainly outsourced to external agencies or executed internally - design is managed by marketing or R&D

No design (focus: technology)

Design maturity models can be used to evaluate the level your organization is at in applying design. They can also pinpoint the steps that could be taken to get to the next level.

interdependent. Designers must begin to think like systems engineers or at least employ a systems thinking approach. This can be a bit scary, yes, but it will provide you with better control of your design leadership journey (not unlike driving a standard transmission car). This is why design leaders must understand the big picture and lead Design (with a capital “D,” representing strategic design), ensuring that all the design disciplines needed in their organization (industrial, service, interaction, experience, UX, graphics, etc.) are interwoven and plugged into the organizational product development process with engineering and manufacturing, all the way to the product’s end of life. As they progress along their career path, designers naturally transition from being designers as artists and craftspeople to becoming more T-shaped, a term made popular by IDEO’s Tim Brown, as they add the breadth of business acumen to their depth of design knowledge. During a Design Management Institute Summit in Chicago called FuturED, we made the case that the next evolution needed to be designers becoming polymaths, specialized generalists, design hybrids, or Pi-shaped. Pi-shaped (π) simply means that the letter “T” grows another leg of specialization, such as design + business, design + entrepreneurial, or design + sustainability—in other words, the expertise needed to effectively manage the complexity of today’s design leadership requirements.

The road to becoming a design leader does not have a set path. But like in an off-road rally, the road has checkpoints or stages you must pass through. If you happen to miss one, you will have to make it up somehow. Not everyone can necessarily afford to go back to university full time to fill in those skill gaps, and learning on the job has its own challenges. It takes much longer, and one certainly cannot be as focused on the specific gaps that need to be filled. Design can impact all companies across every sector, not just consumer- or product-centric industries. Design departments that are well-led and well-managed can impact the entire organization and drive innovation by design across all departments, especially those that are part of the product development process. In a recent article, Frans Joziasse, the founder of PARK, an international design management consultancy, outlines 10 principles that are paramount to success in design leadership (see next page). If designers want to transition from doing design to leading design or managing design departments and organizations, they must begin the process of widening the scope of their holistic systems and design-thinking problem-solving skills to design their company’s or their own process of design. A buzzword gaining notoriety these days is “DesignOps.” If doing design is the what, then design operations is the all-encompassing process, system, governance, guidelines, and tools—or the how. As Josh Ulm from Oracle says,

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10 PRINCIPLES OF SUCCESSFUL DESIGN LEADERSHIP 1. CONNECT & INTEGRATE Design’s natural ability to work holistically, create 360-degree value propositions, and build an organization accordingly is one of the reasons the C-suite can fall in love with a design leader! 2. OWN DESIGN THINKING Design thinking positively impacts a wider culture when the adoption of design thinking is led by a design leader who has a natural affinity and passion for the subject that shines through. 3. START & END WITH THE USER The best design leaders are advocates for the user from start to finish by inspiring top management with real future user needs to monitor the success of their offer. 4. CAPTURE THE VALUE The most successful design leaders connect their design strategy and activities to corporate, innovation, and brand objectives to show the value of design. 5. KEEP MAKING IT REAL The best design leaders inspire and drive the future strategies of companies by making ideas tangible and empowering their teams to surprise and challenge the C-suite. 6. FORMALIZE & CLARIFY By diplomatically and professionally co-creating an operating model for design with top and middle management, design can significantly boost its performance, credibility, and recognition. 7. MASTER STORYTELLING Advocating design and inspiring others both internally and externally is a critical task for a design leader. 8. DEMOCRATIZE UNDERSTANDING By democratizing the understanding of design, the activation of a design strategy is significantly accelerated, the appreciation is multiplied, and more doors begin to open. 9. DESIGNERS AS BUSINESSPEOPLE Many design leaders still want to explore, create, and make, but to be efficient and have an impact in a business environment, you need to manage and lead design through a business lens too. 10. EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE Listening and looking, being empathetic toward peers, and empowering others to engage with design give design leaders credibility and space to operate.

“Operations are basically responsible for all of the overhead that makes design happen.” Let’s extend the analogy of the path to becoming a design leader as being an off-road rally with checkpoints, making the organization as a whole the car we are riding in for this journey. The design leaders are the drivers, keeping an eye on the road ahead and guiding the car along the path, and the design managers are doing all it takes to keep the car running and in tip-top shape. Leading and managing require similar skills, but they are applied differently. Managers focus on the operational, and leaders drive the vision and the strategy. To truly excel in managing and leading design in enterprise organizations—to keep the car running and on the road—designers must identify and master the fundamentals, which are often missing from academic programs. You’re a Design Leader: Now What? Designers who have made the journey to become a design leader will discover that the journey has really just begun, just like driving to reach the horizon over the hill. Now it’s time to lead your organization on its journey toward design leadership, focusing on design excellence through continuous improvement. As a design leader, you are responsible for ensuring that all relevant aspects of design are enabled and maturing in your team. You are no longer doing design but using the design thinking process to design your organization. Several models can guide you on the design maturity journey, such as the DMI maturity matrix, the Danish Design Ladder, and Marty Neumeier’s Ladder of Design Leverage. We at PARK, of course, have our own framework, which focuses on the advancement toward leadership. For this design maturity transformation to take place, design must not only have a seat at the table but a voice loud enough to be heard. Regardless of the journey you take, remember to enjoy the ride! —Stephan Clambaneva, IDSA stephan@clamba.net Stephan Clambaneva is a director at PARK and on the Board of Directors for IDSA with decades of experience working for IBM and Dassault Systèmes, leading design and innovation projects for clients around the world.

IDSA + Grow Design Leadership Bootcamp IDSA has partnered with Grow, PARK’s professional education and training service, to offer a Design Leadership Bootcamp that is custom-built for IDSA members. The program features five Grow training modules (Design Leadership, Design Management, Design Strategy, Design Value, and Design for Humanity), which will be delivered virtually in training and assessment sessions over the course of five weeks. This is a special professional development opportunity for you to take your design career and leadership ambition to the next level. Classes start on November 15, 2021 and conclude on December 16, 2021. The class size is limited to 20 participants. Learn more at www.idsa.org/design-leadership-bootcamp-2021

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Be Bold. Resonate with Soul. Find out more at design.samsung.com

Models designed by Kinetic Vision and 3D printed with “liquid” inside the cup.

Accelerate innovation and minimize cost with high-fidelity, full-color 3D printed models and the streamlined KeyShot render-to-print workflow. See for yourself.

See how Kinetic Vision did this: www.stratasys.com/idsa-video Request a PolyJet sample: www.stratasys.com/idsa-sample

To be able to quickly and easily represent a product in a ‘retail-ready’ form to consumers and to clients has elevated our business.” Tony Guard

Director Innovation + Industrial Design at Kinetic Vision

INNOVATION Fall 2021: Yearbook of Design Excellence

Articles inside

How Samsung Is Reimagining Home Appliance Design

Beautility

Academia 360°

Design DNA