solar power banks: working wall
john colon sdes704 - applied theory in design winter 2018
working wall: introduction “A working wall is not intended to be a finished display. It evolves as the design project progresses. It is there to support the design manager and design team with a visual, collaborative workspace. Through ever-changing visual storytelling, the working wall can give life to abstract ideas, creating a snapshot of the project. For design teams that rely on the wall as their primary focus, the wall can also provide a management tool for charting progress, signaling if progress on a project falls behind deadline.� - SCAD Design Management
primary research: • Most consumers unaware of the science behind solar energy • Interviews focused on consumers and staff in Target, Best Buy, and Micro Center • Batteries are becoming more efficient and charging faster • Public generally believes solar energy is probably better • Travelling is become more possible
primary research: • Even sales staff are not informed on solar energy products • Micro Center was the most helpful resource • Power banks are becoming increasingly popular • Price is heavily dependent on amount of power and quality of solar panels
visual audit: roamproof • Charging for 4 USB devices at once. 20,000 mAh capacity w/ High Efficiency Solar Re-Charge. • Should cater to those indoors - HOW? • USB ports most susceptible to damage, taking away from main feature • Price is too steep • Company’s claim of wanting to make the single best model of brick power bank is not unfounded
visual audit: teryei • Technical specs should be simplified • There’s a battle between aesthtic and function • Freely attach it to your backpack in camping, you are camping, hiking, outdoor adventure and other travel • You’d better charge it first, first use it. But if you do not, it does not matter. • One week in the sun to get a full charge
visual audit: anker • Incredibly Durable: Industrial-strength PET polymer faced solar panels • Elastic loops on each corner allow easy attachment to backpacks, trees, or tents. • PowerIQ discovers and replicates your device’s original charging protocol • Recommend minimizing moisture exposure to protect electrical components
secondary research: • Wireless charging becoming increasingly popular • Extra batteries are more in demand for those who rely on portability • Waterproof devices becoming more important • Shock and dust proof • Different capacity ranges of solar panels from 500 MaH t0 15500 MaH
most important consumer: “The millennial generation is known for placing a high emphasis on being unique, and a major part of that is growing their identity through culturally rich experiences and exploration of the unknown — both of which travel provides in full. This means millennial travel experiences aren’t the same as those of their predecessors, but rather involve more adventure and the desire for more customization. Along with greater daring and initiative, however, comes the necessity for something that millennials don’t often think about, much less prioritize — travel insurance. For millennials, insurance and its processes seem stuck in the dark ages without the digital connectivity they require.” - Jeff Fromm, Forbes
most important consumer: • Millennials are easier to adopt to innovations • Aware of environmental problems, don’t know how to help • Could use unique gadgets for both travelling and everyday life • Need a very simplified explanation about why to use product • Need more info on solar energy
working wall: conclusion Jotting down thoughts and ideas on post-its and putting them on their respective section helped me find that some post-its are flexible enough to move in location -- realizing certain connections between these sections. Synthesizing these visuals has helped me gather my thoughts quicker. After spending some time finding connections and patterns, I began to think about certain pieces that may be missing, in order to find even more connections. This led me to the idea of combining all existing products into one, while catering to an audience who isn’t aware of the product(s) and its benefits/drawbacks. One of my main discoveries was the lack of knowledge in solar energy, negatively affecting the solar market. But I’ve realized that these existing products are only targeted who the educated. Simpifying the hidden science will bring in more consumers.