OFFICE FURNITURE DESIGN Redefining office spaces
Dfi | office furniture design | 22-03-13 |
Table of contents 1. INTRODUCTION
04
2. BRIEF
05
3. THE CHALLENGE
06
4. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
07
4.1 4.1.a.
Secondary Research Ergonomics and anthropometry (Indian standards) i) User ii) Furniture iii)Issues related to environment iv) Recommended working positions
09
4.1.b.
i) Trends ii) Innovations iii) Parallel study of products and materials
24 32 37
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4.1.c.
Market Research i) Competitors ii) Manufacturing processes
42
4.2 4.2.a. 4.2.b. 4.2.c.
Primary Research Case studies – Findings Interactive User survey via Internet Market study i) Interaction with Dealers and manufacturers ii) Material Study Expert interviews
54 57 71
4.2.d.
72 79
5. INSIGHTS
81
6. Team profile
84
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1. Introduction
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2. Brief Sociologists say that we spend our lives in three places. The "first place" is the home. The "second place" is our work. And "third places" are where we go for leisure. Although structurally unchanged, the significance of these three places has undergone a major transition. The status of the home is changing because of the demand for mobility and flexibility. The second place – the office – should, ideally, be planned and implemented to ensure optimal ergonomics and functionality. Yet in reality it is often an impersonal and emotionless environment. Third places are a source of stimulation and personal development. They are where we go to forget about the stresses of the home and work. The aim is therefore to capture the stimulation of the senses which people find in "third places" and to recreate this in the office. The office should become a perfect second place which feels just like a third place. We call this holistic design concept "Place 2.5 – the new emotional office culture".
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3. The Challenge How we work has changed dramatically in the last decade. Weâ€&#x;re more mobile, more collaborative, more social and more connected to technology than ever before. Yet we still also need to focus and concentrate. The challenge is to meet the needs of todayâ€&#x;s ever-evolving workplaces, to make them more efficient for their user in terms of furniture.
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4. Research Methodology
SECONDARY RESEARCH includes
Research process follows IDEO‟s Human centered design process as it starts with the people we are designing for. The process begins by examining the needs, dreams, and behaviors of the people we want to affect with our solutions. A range of what is desirable is identified, so that we begin to view our solutions through the lenses of Feasibility and viability. These lenses are carefully brought during the later phases of the process. The process starts with a specific design challenge. To identify a design challenge „what do you want to know‟ list is prepared which directs the research methodology.
4.1.a. ERGONOMICS AND ANTHROPOMETRY User study -Anthropometric study of the user- Indian standards -Ergonomics study of the user Furniture study -Ergonomic study of the furniture -Standard dimensions of the office workstation
APPROACHING THE CHALLENGE 1. SECONDARY RESEARCH 2. PRIMARY RESEARCH
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4.1. secondary research
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4.1. Secondary Research 4.1.a.
Ergonomics and anthropometry (Indian standards)
I] USER PERFECT POSITIONING WITH THE PROPER PRODUCTS
Slouching, slumping or bending forward at the waist in a chair can lead t o discomfort, fatigue and backache. Follow these guidelines to help prevent problems from occurring when sitting at your workstation. A Adjust the height of your seat so that your feet are resting firmly on the floor. Use a footrest if you feel that your feet are not supported properly. B The depth of your seat should allow the back of your knees to extend beyond the edge of your seat. Thighs should be approximately parallel to the floor. C Your forearm should be open at least 90°-100° to your upper arm. D Your wrists should not be angled up or do wn. E Set the height of the w orksurface so that you can work without straining or bending. Arrange commonly used items (stapler, phone etc.) so that they are within easy reach. F The top one-third of your computer screen should be at or below eye-level; the distance between your eyes and the monitor should be 18” or more — typically arm’s length. G Document holder in line with fr ont of monitor. Height and angle adjustable f or the comfort of the user.
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Suggested workstation dimensions and adjustment ranges
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Indian anthropometric dimensions of user-1
50th percentile
Max.
639 539 539
719 639 654
780 760 780
Male Female Combined
520 450 450
659 669 659
960 760 960
Buttock to extended(reste d on floor)leg comfortable length
Male Female Combined
685 660 660
923 851 905
1210 1086 1210
131
Buttock to leg full extended length
Male Female Combined
870 865 865
1088 999 1071
1350 1230 1350
132
Bi-acromion
Male Female Combined
307 225 225
380 334 371
455 442 455
133
Bi-deltoid
Male Female Combined
350 276 276
426 369 417
672 490 672
R. No.
Parameters
Min.
128
Buttock to leg length, normal sitting
Male Female Combined
129
Buttock to leg length while raised on toe
130
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Indian anthropometric dimensions of user-2
50th percentile
Max.
479 480 479
587 540 577
710 622 710
Male Female Combined
335 305 305
425 399 419
540 455 540
Vertical upward arm reach from mid shoulder
Male Female Combined
484 476 476
701 638 693
854 772 854
123
Vertical upward grasp reach from mid shoulder
Male Female Combined
350 446 350
584 557 579
840 668 840
124
Vertical upward arm reach from seat surface
Male Female Combined
1140 1084 1084
1315 1192 1275
1418 1290 1418
125
Vertical upward arm reach from floor
Male Female Combined
1557 1518 1518
1713 1631 1688
1866 1718 1866
126
Buttock to knee length, normal sitting
Male Female Combined
400 409 400
558 526 549
861 670 861
127
Buttock to popliteal length, normal sitting
Male Female Combined
350 340 340
455 439 451
595 560 595
R. No.
Parameters
Min.
120
Thigh clearance ht. at tibial point with raised knee
Male Female Combined
121
Popliteal
122
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Indian anthropometric dimensions of user-3 R. No.
Parameters
Min.
50th percentile
Max.
110
Cervical (trunk)
Male Female Combined
518 489 489
616 555 605
887 624 887
111
Mid shoulder
Male Female Combined
469 408 408
576 525 566
691 665 691
112
Acromion
Male Female Combined
442 426 426
551 506 541
657 603 657
113
Upper lumber
Male Female Combined
226 189 189
300 277 298
427 373 427
114
Lower lumber
Male Female Combined
48 52 48
101 95 100
217 256 256
115
Tip of shoulder blade
Male Female Combined
373 303 350
417 364 411
600 448 600
116
Elbow rest
Male Female Combined
158 124 150
231 194 210
335 290 335
117
Waist
Male Female Combined
154 165 157
188 204 189
327 287 327
118
Mid thigh
Male Female Combined
96 83 89
127 109 124
220 212 220
119
Knee
Male Female Combined
472 440 456
519 484 509
612 578 612
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4.1.a. ii]
Ergonomics- furniture related
What is a computer workstation?
Common problems in office ergonomics
A computer workstation is the environment around your computer: • Furniture – chair and desk or other work surface • Computer equipment – computer, monitor or flat panel display, keyboard, mouse or pointing device • Accessories – document holder, footrest, telephone, palm rest, mouse bridge • Ambient factors – noise, illumination, glare, temperature, humidity, and static electricity
Source : Occupational and environmental health centre, US
• Monitor won‟t fit • Twisted posture • Bad Postures • Environmental Factors • Wrong heights for table and chair • Monitor wrong height or distance • Glare • Bifocals • Mouse won‟t fit near the keyboard • Keeping finger tensed on mouse • Left handed people • Wrists aren‟t straight • Banging the knees on the keyboard tray • Sharp surfaces • “Anchoring” wrists on table or wrist rest • Laptops • No back support • No elbow support • Improperly sized chair • Big & small people • Elbows on hard arm rests or desk surface. • Cradling the phone while using the computer • Pulling files • Multiple users • Job stress • Not enough micro breaks • Poor Typing Technique http://www.oehc.uchc.edu/pubs/officeergofactsheets.pdf
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4.1.a.ii] Common problems in office ergonomics • Bad Postures Due to a faulty work surface and body supportive furniture design
•Twisted Postures
•Documents Placement of documents
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4.1.a.ii] Common problems in office ergonomics CONSIDERATIONS FOR A SEATING WORK SPACE For a seated personâ€&#x;s individual space requirements his functional human volume is taken and it should also ensure the psychology of territorial space feelings. One should consider appropriate anthropometric requirements for sitting, for seat and work surface dimensions, leg room and clearances for getting in and out, and the surrounding free movement space, along with the contextual behaviour of the intended users.
Work Zones Schematic diagram of space clearance for a seated person
Organization of the work area
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4.1.a.ii] Common problems in office ergonomics
According to Indian standards, Indian Anthropometric Dimensions- NID
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4.1.a.ii] Common problems in office ergonomics
• Palm or wrist support
• Left handed people
• Keeping finger tensed on mouse
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4.1.a.ii] Common problems in office ergonomics
• No elbow support
• Cradling the phone while using the computer
• Banging the knees on the keyboard tray
• Big and small people
• Legroom
• Sharp surfaces
• Laptops
• Footrests
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4.1.a.ii] Common problems in office ergonomics
Discomfort and Musculoskeletal Injuries (MSI) associated with office work like-
1.Repetitive movements 2.Awkward postures 3.Static posture
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4.1.a.iii] Common problems in office ergonomics- Environment related
1. LIGHTING - Overhead lighting - Task lighting -Glare A brightly illuminated work area will wash out the images on a computer screen because the monitor produces its own illumination and contrast. Computer workstations should have lower light levels than typical office areas. Illumination should be 20-50 foot-candles for screen viewing and 50-70 foot-candles for reading printed documents. Lighting intensity is commonly measured in foot candles. A foot candle is the illumination produced by one candle at a distance of one foot. The most practical way to measure illumination is with a light meter. Your workstation should be located away from and at right angles to windows; windows should have adjustable blinds or drapes to reduce glare and eye fatigue. (Vertical blinds reduce glare more effectively than horizontal blinds.) Walls, furniture, and equipment near a monitor or display screen should have non reflective, subdued colors to minimize glare. Light fixtures near computers should have diffusers, cube louvers, or parabolic louvers. Recessed or indirect lighting systems can eliminate glare and reflections but are not suitable for all computer work areas. Workstations should be spaced between rows of overhead lights to reduce glare and reflection. If glare is still a problem, attach a visor hood to the monitor. Use anti-glare screens as a last resort, because they can blur screen images and reduce contrast. Most newer monitors have tinted screens to control glare.
2. ACOUSTICS Conversational distractions and uncontrollable noise are the primary causes of productivity loss in the workplace. Moreover, noise is shown to contribute to absenteeism, illness and staff turnover. Therefore, reducing acoustical noise and distractions can result in a reduction in physical, psychological and environmental stressors on employees. 3. TEMPERATURE, HUMIDITY, AND STATIC ELECTRICITY Avoid overcrowding computer work areas. Set thermostats to maintain the temperature between 68 and 72 degrees. Relative humidity should be 40 percent to 60 percent. Use antistatic floor mats or other static dissipaters in low-humidity workplaces.
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4.1.a.Iv] Recommended Working positions Standing while working offers several benefits: While standing, you move more often, have a higher expenditure of energy and better calorie combustion for lowering excess weight. The movement is natural and pleasant, you may walk around the room and stretch yourself (or swing to the background music). You use more muscles than in a regular sitting position which tends to strain your nape and neck sections. Standing distributes the stress and moves it around by changing posture. You would be less stiff relaxing your nape and eyes and moving them more often too. Thinking is easier and concentration lasts longer. Many people choose a standing position because it is better for their thinking and creative work with deeper and longer concentration spans. Great thinkers often preferred standing over sitting at their desk: Hemingway, Churchill, da Vinci, Napoleon, Goethe, Nabokov and Jefferson among many others. Free movement leads to inspiration. When you cannot catch the right idea or untangle a problem, it doesnâ€&#x;t really help to sit and stare at your PC screen. Much better to leave your desk, pour yourself a cup of tea and look out of the window to collect your thoughts. Your quick action radius expands from your desk to the whole room, books and folders are suddenly within reach and inspiration can come more easily.
Prolonged sitting has been associated with a high incidence of back complaints (Mandal, 1981), increased spinal muscular activity and intradiscal pressure (Grandjean and Hunting, 1977; Lindh, 1989). Other problems reported include discomfort in the lower extremities (Westgaard and Winkel, 1996) and increased muscle loading of the neck and shoulder muscles when sitting with the forearms unsupported as compared to standing with the forearms unsupported (Aaras et al., 1997; Lannersten and HarmsRingdahl, 1990). To summarize the literature, neither static standing nor sitting is recommended. Each position has its advantages and disadvantages. Research indicates that constrained sitting or constrained standing are risk factors and that alternating work postures may be preferable. Roelof and Straker (2003) recorded the discomfort and preferences of 30 bank tellers who worked in just sitting, just standing and alternating sitting and standing work postures. Greatest discomfort in the upper limb was noted in the just sitting posture and greatest discomfort in the lower limb and back was reported for the just standing posture. Alternating between sitting and standing resulted in least discomfort and was reported as the preferred posture by 70% of subjects. Alternation between two postures allows for increased rest intervals of specific body parts, and reduced potential for risk factors commonly associated with MSD development. Ideally, provide workers with a workstation and job tasks that allow frequent changes of working posture, including sitting, standing, and walking. If either sitting or standing is feasible but only one possible, sitting in a properly designed chair is preferable. (Unsupported sitting, for example, results in disk pressures 40 percent greater than during standing work (cited by Yates & Karwowski, 1992)
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4.1.a.Iv] Recommended Working positions- research by ‘bene company’
Occupational health experts have issued standards and recommendations for preventing harmful habits and their negative health impact at the office workplace. These standards and recommendations are based on findings relating to an incorrect and tense sitting posture which limits performance and produces longterm physical damage over time.
Sitting with a hunched back doubles the burden on the vertebral disks compared to standing up Source : Wilkhahn http://bene.com/office-furniture/t-lift-desk-ergonomics.html
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4.1.b. i] Trends Steelcase Quadrino Steelcase Quadrino – sophisticated features. Hallmarks of this range are the desk legs, which are fixed on through the desktop. This method makes it possible to directly connect the legs to columns for accessory shelves and counters. The columns and legs are of similar design, making them blend into a single unit. This creates unique design continuity in all areas of application – ranging from reception areas to conference rooms, teamwork areas or conventional workstations. Hence the red dot distinction. Features Versatile functions, consistent design Elegant height adjustment Easily adaptable
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The Workrite Sierra -adjustable height workcenter
The Workrite Sierra HX™ is the most innovative adjustable height workcenter for the professional workplace. The standard crossbar has been eliminated to allow maximum leg clearance for worker comfort. Instead, a mount structure under the worksurface provides unmatched stability and plenty of room to attach a CPU holder and keyboard platform and lots of space to position your mobile pedestal.
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Metropol Metropol Design: Mario Bellini The basic element of Metropol is the table, which is available in two shapes and various sizes. Practical components can be added above, on or beneath the table top in order to fulfil individual requirements. Add-on components bring order and clarity to the workspace: The technical beam forms a third level with storage elements and trays for technical devices, work documents and lighting elements. Side tables can be connected to the main desk for a larger work surface, or as a meeting area. The cable tray underneath the table top provides power and data access and holds excess cable lengths.
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ATM by Design: Jasper Morrison ATM is an individual table system that focuses on the essentials, expressed in the restrained, dignified aesthetic that characterises the work of Jasper Morrison. The functional features of ATM are self-explanatory. The central element of ATM is the table, whose top measures 180 x 90 cm or 220 x 95 cm. It is carefully designed to fulfil functional needs: With chamfered edges, surface outlets for cables and accessory attachments, a power socket panel and a perforated mat to hold excess cable lengths, ATM is an all-purpose desk that can also be arranged to form group workstations for several people. ATM offers practical accessories to keep the work surface organised: lamp mounts, circular and rectangular trays, paper boxes. Screens create a sense of privacy and Mobile Units – filing trolleys and rolling containers – offer flexible storage space. Conference and visitor tables expand the functional applications of ATM.
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JOYN The decisive factor for planning a Joyn configuration is the number of required workplaces. This determines the number and size of platforms to be used. The Joyn platform is the central unit of the system. With a wide range of practical accessories and sophisticated solutions for power access and wire management, Joyn is an extremely flexible system that can be easily reconfigured. Joyn is simple to use but as sophisticated and complex as the problems it helps to solve. The Joyn platform is complemented by a number of additional products: the Single Bench and Single Desk for individual work, the Conference Bench for meeting areas, and microarchitectural elements such as Hut, Bay and Talkpoint. Design: Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec
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AG Land 14
KARAN Executive table with natural wengue wood top, with three lacquered modules / In the background, a bookcase with two shelves, mobile glass display cabinet and low swing doors, also in natural wengue wood and aluminium marquetry. Close-ups of the shelves on the exterior part of the table and the lacquered leg which supports the natural wood table top.
LEVEL T “Level is style. Style because it combines contemporary forms with craftsman tradition from the master cabinetmakers that produce each piece of furniture in the programme, one-by-one, with loving care and skill. Designer: Gabriel TeixidĂł for AG Land 14
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Involve by Allsteel
Today office needs to multi-task as quickly and effortlessly as you do. Whether youâ€&#x;re concentrating on a task, brainstorming with your team, or sharing a presentation, Involve comfortably connects you to work, to people, and to technology. It accommodates the way work happens, so you can give it your all while you do it all. From individual workspaces to shared meeting areas. From private office to open plan. From multi-dimensional storage and comfortable soft seating to accessible technology. Involve brings everything together in one hardworking, flexible environment.
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Involve by Allsteel
Involveâ€&#x;s benching solution brings the entire team together in one open, energetic space to encourage big thinking and immediate problem-solving. Credenzas with cushions provide extra seating for impromptu guests, and feature lockable file drawers, open cubbies, and additional worksurfaces to keep clutter out of the way.
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4.1.b. ii] Innovations -Rest and Concentration in the Workplace
Enabled by wireless tablets and smart phones, today‟s offices have adapted to the fluid interactions needed for teamwork, yet rarely provide space for private rest, concentration or „personal time‟. When individual workers need a moment away from the group, what new furniture types will support their rest and concentration? 16 Cranbrook design students explored these questions as research for Herman Miller International. Six proposals were chosen for prototyping. See booths 1170 and 1480 at the International Contemporary Furniture Fair in NYC, May 19 thru 22, 2012.
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Herman Miller Envelop desk
Envelop Desk The First Desk Designed with Task Chairs in Mind The Envelop desk moves and encourages movement, it lets people take full advantage of the support offered by their synchronous-tilt task chairs. Simply and easily, Envelop, part of The Be Collection,™ makes people more comfortable with their chairs, their work, and their technology. Like no other desk, Envelop helps people maintain consistent visual distance and optimal alignment with their computer screens. It allows them to synchronously move laptops or keyboards, pointing devices, and computer screens nearer or farther away depending on their own changing positions and preferences. Adaptable in both look and function, Envelop helps people perform in a variety of corporate, educational, or healthcare settings and within traditional, contemporary, open, or private applications.
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Contemporary office furniture by Tecnospa -Red Dot award winning product design 2010 The beta furniture combines the modern office desks, chair and cabinets to manages the workspace differently, merging formal and informal areas and optimizing the use of space. Its has been specifically designed for creative offices to enhance knowledge sharing and arrange ancillary space for soft working. Beta is the operative system specifi cally conceived to reply the needs of the creative offi ce, with the ability of: - reshape the space - adapt to peopleâ€&#x;s behaviors - evolve over time
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Standby Office: Mobile Office Vision of K + N
Standby Office: Mobile Office Vision of K + N In the modern office high value is placed on extreme flexibility and mobility. The own desk for each employee belongs in some companies already almost past. St @ ndby is the ultimate answer to this design of new work environments. The mobile office of K + N has everything you need for a flexible workplace, without compromising the privacy of the employee. St @ ndby meets the relevant statutory requirements, which ergonomics and safety concerns. The mobile office module contains everything that needs a desk. When folded, the mobile office is just 1.90 m high, 1.50 m wide and 68.5 inches deep. Unfolded turned out a complete job that provides adequate for personal space. Result is always a two-sided enclosed work area. With transparent decorative walls developers managed the balance between privacy and territorial expanse and openness on the one hand and on the other hand.
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4.1.c. iii] Parallel study
The ‘Land Peal’ fold-out furniture mat by Shin Yamashita packs an incredible amount of function into whatâ€&#x;s essentially an area rug. A desk, a chair, a lamp and other furniture components emerge from its folds for a mini-room ideal for the tiniest of living spaces.
an insanely clever pack of cardboard pieces that fit together into various configurations. Each set contains five slotted board modules that can be connected with other sets to create all manner of storage space, tables, benches and more. Designer: Pedro Gomes
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4.1.c. iii] Parallel study
Furniture that fits together like a puzzle isn‟t just visually stimulating, it‟s fun to put together as well – and this plywood furniture series by Paul Bellila even allows you to try your hand at creating some organic and unexpected shapes.
Tetris like the well-known video game, an interplay of joints and constructions of different geometries that rapidly cancel each other out on the screen. The composition of the squares and the alternation of voids and solids animate this lounge table in two colored versions, black or white. The projecting upper shelves are suspended towards the center. The empty spaces are conceived as racks for magazines or bottles. Designer: Nendo[ Manufacturer: De Padova ]
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4.1.c. iii] Parallel study
Multifunctional and Dynamic Curv The Curv is the space saving, environmentally friendly solution for the 21st century home. The changes in housing market, particularly the reduction in the size of living accommodation, has seen a growing need for adaptable, space saving, multifunctional furniture. Inspired from the space-age furniture styling of the 1960‟s, the Curv is a modern adaptation that fulfils the needs of today‟s society. The Curv‟s elegance stems from the simplistic concept of providing two types of furniture from an integral item. When orientated horizontally, the Curv provides the user with a stylish table complete with a chair, perfect to use as either a work desk or dining table. With just with one effortless movement to position the product vertically, the Curv transforms into a comfortable chair with a side table; perfect for relaxing after a hard day‟s work. Designer: Tiffany Roddis
This clever desk design allows a sort of controlled chaos with nooks and crannies in which to store items that would otherwise be scattered across the desktop or shoved into drawers.
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4.1.c. iii] Parallel study
Solitaire is multifunctional wooden table design by Alexander Lotersztain, this table together with chairs that aims to facilitate your work. Whatever your job will be fun with this wooden table, you can also use it for various purposes, such as reading, writing and even play music. Equipped with storage shelves and hooks to store wood, functional wooden table that answers needs of many people today.
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4.1.c. iii] Parallel study
Couch System for the Mobile Generation It is called “Diagonal” and it contains only two elements. There‟s the two types of padded movables, and the screen. The screen is meant to be a guide and an anchor point for the movable bits. The movables are cushioned and come in two heights. The shorter, lighter ones are for sitting, while the taller, darker ones are for laptops and other similar devices.Designed for meetings and social situations. For waiting rooms and talking rooms. The taller, darker movables are called “worktops,” and can be used for working or for higher sitting .A flexible furniture set. Manufactured by Martela
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4.1.c. Market research I] Competitors across India
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Featherlite 1. edge
categories
features
Material specification
accessories
Wire management
Cost
Straight, Lshaped, Non sharing, sharing, Non sharing cluster, sharing cluster
1 seater to 6 seater
Finishes: Fabric shades 6 colours, Glass 3 colour types, Laminates 3 types, Powder coating – texture moonlight grey
ABS keyboard tray with/without mouse pad, CPU trolly,paper tray, pencil stand, white board, stationery organiser, dustbin
Vertical : vertebra, wire entry cover Horizontal : metal tray to carry wires below table top
Remarks: no scope of personalization, no tag boards or softboards provided
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Featherlite 2. evolve configurations
features
Material specification
accessories
Structural elements
Wire management
L- shaped work top, straight work top, 120 degree worktop
Glass tile, add on tile, extension table, accessory tile
Finishes: Fabric shades 6 colours, Glass 3 colour types, Laminates 3 types, Powder coating – texture moonlight grey
Over head storage with gaslift, Foot rest (2 variations), CPU trolly, paper tray, pencil stand, flower holder, dustbin
Steel frame, power beam, Al trim, clip on skirting, clip on race way,
wire ladder
Remarks: corners of softboards out of reach, customizable, sharing space not foldable Support options
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Modular combinations - evolve
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Featherlite 3. fusion configurations
features
Material specification
accessories
Structural elements
Wire management
L- shaped work top
Economical combination of tile based and desk based workstation, colourful options of fabrics for the tiles
Finishes: Fabric shades 6 colours, Glass 3 colour types, Laminates 3 types, Powder coating – texture moonlight grey
File holder, paper tray, pencil stand, flower holder,
Support options:gable end support/ pedestal support/metal leg support, power beam
The tile based partition runs along the main spine housing the data and power networking cables.
Cost
Remarks: folders can be hung so we get free space on the work surface
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Featherlite 4. perform configurations
features
Material specification
accessories
Structural elements
Wire management
Clients
Linear,Lshaped work top, 120 degree desks
Seamless, simple sleek, straight clean lines, inspired by contemporary European designs but suitable in Indian conditions, fashionable yet productive
Screen options: coloured laminate/ frosted glass, fabric or magnetic screen, Screen with Al trims, Fabric slide screen
Monitor mounting poles, comfort leather pad, CPU stand,CPU trolley with lockable castors,Monito r arm, Pedestal, vertebrae,
Support options: square/ curve legs, screens
Flip up box and Data tray : centrally placed below the track and shared by users on either side, bi-level raceways with vertical wire manager cover
Eka softwareB’lore, Avery DennisonB’lore, Anchorbangalore, HewittMumbai, DTZ bangalore, Gokaldas/Nikebangalore, Elbitbangalore, US TechnologyManila,
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Godrej 1. Portable A- out of box iiid godrej innovation award winner configurations
features
accessories
Wire management
mobile workstation for two people
Mobile, expands to provide shelf space for laptop/desktop along with storage, Post work it can be easily closed and moved to the corner to create free space. styling and interesting graphics
flexible stem LED task lights for worktops, Lockable storage units with push-to-open shutters for personal belongings and drawers for easy access to files
Integrated switch box aids plug and play power access,
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2. Desk based vurv
configurations
features
accessories
Linear workstation for two people
Created using environment friendly processes and materials, Linear contemporary design for openness and interaction
flexible stem LED task lights for worktops, Lockable storage units with push-toopen shutters for personal belongings and drawers for easy access to files
Wire management
Concealed wire management
Remarks: there is no privacy between two adjacent users. The middle sharing desk can be made adjustable when privacy is provided.
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Ergo 1.alpha
Remarks: foldable sharing table which is good as it saves space when not in use, but the details they have used are not efficient. Person has to use 2 hands while operating it.
Configurations
Features
Material Specification
Accessories
Wire Management
Linear- single seating/both side seating, L-shaped, T-shaped, U-shaped, X-shaped
Free-standing, privacy panels, Central cable “mast”, modular- interchangeable accessories, “Spanner worktops” (between two contiguous worktops- for informal meetings)
Top: Pre-laminated particle board
Paper trays, Bookshelf, Pin-up board, Marker board, Storage cabinet, Binder bin, File bin, CD Holders
Cable ducts in the ‘legs’, wire tray in the frame, central cable “mast” has all the plug points
Partitions: Fabric covered boards, Pre-laminated particle boards Structural Elements: Steel frame Finish- Powder coating
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Ergo 2.axis
Remarks: Good- grove at the top channel of the partition where accessory holder can be hung and slide.
Configurations
Features
Material Specification
Accessories
Wire Management
Linear- single seating/both side seating, L-shaped, T-shaped, U-shaped, X-shaped, X-shaped with central cable mast
Privacy panels customizable- height (1135mm, 1200mm, 1350mm, 1500mm), width and finishes,
Top: Pre-laminated particle board
Paper trays, Bookshelf, Pin-up board, Marker board, Storage cabinet, Binder bin, File bin, CD Holders
Cable ducts in the ‘legs’, wire tray in the frame, central cable “mast” has all the plug points Different trays for data and power cables
Central cable “mast”integrated power beam, modular- interchangeable accessories,
Partitions: Fabric covered boards, Pre-laminated particle boards- 25mm Structural Elements: Steel frame Finish- Powder coating
“Spanner worktops” (between two contiguous worktops- for informal meetings)
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Ergo 3.stratum
Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) Configurations
Features
Material Specification
Accessories
Wire Management
Privacy panels/ partitions: customizable height (1135mm, 1200mm, 1350mm, 1500mm), width and finishes,
Top: Pre-laminated particle board
Paper trays, Bookshelf, Pin-up board, Marker board, Magnetic board, Storage cabinet, Binder bin, File bin, CD Holders Key board tray
Electrical and data access points above and below the desk (skirting level).
modular
Acoustic tiles- reduce noise
Partitions: 15 mm MDF Tiles: •Fabric, •Pre-laminated •Veneer •Painted High NRC acoustic tiles Structural Elements: Steel frame Finish- Powder coating
Cable run in ‘raceways’.
Over head storage
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Ergo stratum
Remarks
You get standing privacy. Lower part of storage is not accessible.
Features
Material Specification
Accessories
Wire Management
Privacy panels/ partitions: customizable height (1135mm, 1200mm, 1350mm, 1500mm), width and finishes,
Top: Pre-laminated particle board Partitions: 15 mm MDF Tiles: •Fabric, •Pre-laminated •Veneer •Painted Structural Elements: Steel frame Finish- Powder coating
Paper trays, Bookshelf, Pin-up board, Marker board, Magnetic board, Storage cabinet, Binder bin, File bin, CD Holders Key board tray
Electrical and data access points above and below the desk (skirting level).
modular Acoustic tilesreduce noise
Cable run in „raceways‟.
Over head storage
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4.2. primary research
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4.2. Primary Research METHODOLOGY for Primary research
Study user and its interaction with furniture in terms of-
In context immersion- Case studies -Hear the user (Understanding needs, hopes and aspirations of the user) --through questionnaire --User‟s views -Observing the user and context --activities --interaction with furniture --how do they do their business --Mind mapping
•Activity chart •Motion chart •Interaction with furniture •Exploration with workstations •How/where do they keep personal belongings •How long can they withstand in a workstation •Healthy/ unhealthy habits the furniture is imparting •What are they happy with existing furniture? What things do disappoint them? •What are their expectations or demands for the provisions in furniture?
What do you want to know? A list of things is made which you want to know and extract through the visit, which gives you a certain direction to the case studies. Making a questionnaire A questionnaire is prepared for interaction with user to extract the things which you want to know. It is prepared on the basis ofa. Quantitative questions: To measure the incidence of various views and opinions so that the findings are conclusive b. Generative/Qualitative questions: To inspire imagination and inform intuition about new opportunities and ideas
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Questionnaire 1. Which kind of workstation would you prefer? Open Semi open Enclosed Because 2. Can you enlist your personal belongings you bring to office? 3. Do you have space to keep your personal belongings? 4. Problems you find while doing tasks at your workstationMess of cables Desk height Insufficient storage Insufficient work surface Insufficient leg space Immovable chair/ desk Sharp edges or corners No task lighting Tabletop temperature-too cold or too warm No footrests No space for informal or instant meetings Other > 5. How long can you withstand working in your workstation? Less than one hr 1 hr-3hr 3hr-5hr More than 5hrs Why?
6. When you are saturated with work, you would Read newspaper/book Doodle, sketch Play game Play music Eat
7. Do you get stressed because of work? If yes, how do you manage your stress? Listen to music Take breaks like tea-coffee break, smoking break etc. Play indoor game like badminton Talking to your colleagues Go to other places in office like, garden, open gallery, etc Exercise/ meditate Other > 8. How do you personalize your workspace and make it more interesting? 9.Which place/ location attracts you to do office work? Cafeteria Garden Home Your colleagueâ€&#x;s workstation Other > Iâ€&#x;m happy working at my given workspace Because, 10. You can give maximum output at work, when 11. At your workstation you would like to have 12. Does noise in office distract you while working? Which kind of noise? 13. What kind of pain you experience because of prolonged working? Neck back Lower back Wrist Eye strain Other- specify > 14. Enlist the activities on your desk. 15. What do you like about your existing workstation? 16. If you would suggest some improvements in your workstation, what would they be?
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4.2.a. Case studies- findings Offices visited
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
Archohm, Noida Vestergaard, Saket Instapower, Gurgaon Indian Oil, Noida Fluor Daniel, Gurgaon
Observations highlighted in following areas 1.Ergonomics User (Posture related) Furniture related
2.Activity based 3.Functions / facilities
what existing furniture offers and what not what needs to be offered and why
4.Environmental factors 5.Psychological comfort 6.Information related
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Observation
1.Ergonomics A] User (Posture related)
fact Insight
Ulnar Deviation Wrist extension Contact stress Excessive elbow flexion Wrist Hazards Carpel tunnel syndrome is observed in working people due to prolonged use of mouse and keyboard who experience numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the thumb and fingers, pain in the wrists or hands and loss of grip strength, etc. a.i) Hunched back while working on laptop Screen is comfortably readable when it makes 30 degree angle with eyes below eye level of the user. Body tries to get into comfortable vision position. Desks are not designed for laptop use.
Reason: compression of the median nerve at the wrist due to lack of wrist supports, sharp edges, hard contact surfaces Care has not been taken to prevent wrist hazards. Wrist supports, edge protection/cushioning, arm rests are not considered
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Twisted postures cause physical discomfort in body parts like neck, back. People tend to sit in restrained twisted positions due to fixed screen positions and their short cables. Absence of document holder Screens should be placed right in the front side of the user, document holder provision
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1.Ergonomics B] Furniture related
Leg room Leg room is occupied by either CPU or dustbins. UPS and the associated cables on the floor hampers free movement
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Absence of footrests 4/5 offices visited didnâ€&#x;t provide footrests Employees feel discomfort in legs due to absence of foot rests. At some places they are observed with carrying their own small stools to support their feet.
Footrests take off the body weight from the thighs and promote good blood circulation. Health issues such as blood clots, varicose veins are commonly reported problems among people in the absence of footrests. Keeping the blood flow regular in lower limbs, facilitating the leg movements is important.
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2. Activity based No space allocation for stuff which tend to spill 1 out of 5 offices had a shared tray in two users which organizes bottles, cups and stationary.
-Keeps desks organized -Prevents spillage possibility and possibility of documents to get wet -stationery never misplaced -OPEN: gathers dust
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Informal Meetings 50% of the users felt need of proper space for quick discussions and meetings at the desk. Sittings are absent, Sharing of the screen becomes difficult, Whiteboards are not provided for instant group discussions Some instant solution of arrangement for knowledge sharing and informal discussions
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Around 70% of the people have problem of not having any storage or covered space for lose papers. Lose papers gets lost, get dusty if kept on the desk
Unorganized files, lose papers are problems. belongings like wallet, mobiles etc need lockers.
Personal
Accessories like Headphones, earphones etc These accessories are observed in offices where video/audio calls with the client are often. There is no space allocated to place headphones which consume s desk area and causes wire nuisance.
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Space for belongings
personal
Women prefer to keep their handbags on the top of the surface as they need to use some of stuff kept inside it often e.g. handkerchief, cosmetics, cellphone, etc. Storage needs to be provided for tiffin box,handbags,eatables, extra pair of clothes, etc Men keep their laptop bags either on the floor or on the desk which hampers leg movement and occupies desk space respectively
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Personalization of space People like to personalize their space by decorating it or keeping their own stuff which inspires them. Most of the things are placed on the desk than pinning to the softboard. Design of workstation doesnâ€&#x;t offer any scope to accommodate these things. Users struggle handling their documents as well as their stuff on desk at a time. The stuff includes calendars, family photographs, plants, inspirational cards/prizes, gift articles,etc.
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Cable Management Most of the offices donâ€&#x;t have proper cable management system at workstations which causes mess on the worktop. Here the wire conduits are not incorporated into the workstation. Cable tray doesn’t accommodate laptop adapters.
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4.Environmental factors -Noise -No visual connection to outer environment Noise: Conversational distractions is one of the measure issues which hamper the work efficiency of 65% of the users. No visual connection to outer environment Workstation environment should not be monotonous. It should allow to see changes in time shift(environmental changes), which keeps you energized. Body secretes a hormone which makes you feel dizzy when you work in a monotonous environmental conditions. To avoid this, a visual connection with the external environmental changes is necessary.
5. Psychological Comfort related Privacy issues
a.95% users would like to have semi open workstations which allows you partial level of privacy and also let you see the others and not let you feel disconnected. b.Users donâ€&#x;t wish for typical office arrangement which gives them feeling to sit and work at the given place. c. Leg room should have atleast partial cover so that person sitting nearby or in the front doesnâ€&#x;t get distracted or attentive to the leg movements or posture changes. 96% of women wish to have covered leg room for privacy.
•90% of the user preferred to have warm work surface like a wood than glass or metal.
6. Information related It is important that the worker be informed of health hazards in the workplace. In fact it is a legal requirement. The worker needs to understand which body movements and positions contribute to discomfort and that the conditions causing mild discomfort can lead to chronic injury in the long term. The worker should be aware that rest periods are important elements of the work. Rest periods should be used to relax when muscles are tired, to move around when muscles are stiff, to walk when work restricts the worker's ability to change postures or positions, and so on.
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Activity chart Identifying critical areas
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4.2.a. Interactive User survey via Internet What do users wish for? •It should be intelligent enough to respond user‟s change is sitting posture •60% of the people wish to have provision for taking nap as a short break at the workstation •The ergonomics of the furniture should be such that it should allow to slog for 5-6 hours in the crucial period of work •Some informative stuff which would take care of the users wrong working behaviors e.g. some exercise/ stretches utilities. •Freedom to move space of work and not made to sit at one place for long hours. •Locker is needed to keep personal belongings safely- 100% •Workstation environment should not be monotonous. It should allow to see changes in time shift(environmental changes), which keeps you energized.[Body secretes a hormone which makes you feel dizzy when you work in a monotonous environmental conditions. To avoid this, a visual connection with the external environmental changes is necessary.] •95% users would like to have semi open workstations which allows you partial level of privacy and also let you see the others and not let you feel disconnected. •Users don‟t wish for typical office arrangement which gives them feeling to sit and work at the given place. •No attention is given for the provision for informal meetings/presentations and quick discussions at the desk •90% of the user wish to have warm work surface like a wood •Enough plug points to plug camera charger, mobile charger, laptop charger •Space to keep food items •25% of the people need space to keep gym utilities e.g. extra pair of shoe, clothes, etc
•Physical pain while working in descending order Eye strain Neck pain Back and Lower Back pain Wrist knee
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4.2.c. Market & Material study i] interaction with dealers and manufacturers Agenda : To know about furniture offered by GODREJ INTERIO. Focus areas –Manufacturing, Equipment (Technology), Supply, Materials, Maintenance. Customisation, Clients, Most sold / trend, Costing
From Godrej Interio Rohit Singh, Asst. Manager Sales rsing@godrej.com , +91-9911249400
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Agenda : To know about furniture offered by FEATHERLITE. Focus areas –Manufacturing, Equipment (Technology), Supply, Materials, Maintenance. Customisation, Clients, Most sold / trend, Costing
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Agenda : To know about furniture offered by INFINITY. Focus areas –Manufacturing, Equipment (Technology), Supply, Materials, Maintenance. Customisation, Clients, Most sold / trend, Costing
Devendra Mehta, Manager Sales, teronidel@impl.biz, +91-9313812340
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4.2.c. ii] Material study
FINISHES
SURFACE
RATES
Enamel Paint
Wood, veneer, MDF, Particle board
Rs 18 /sqft
Duco Paint
Wood, veneer, MDF, Particle board
Rs 65 /sqft
Varnish – Spirit Polish
Wood, veneer, Particle board
Rs 150 /sqft
Melamine Polish
Wood, veneer, Particle board
Rs 55 /sqft
SURFACE
RATES
METAL FINISHES FINISHES Enamel Powder Coating
Rs 18 /sqft
Duco Paint
Rs 125 /sqft
Automobile Paint
Rs 200 /sqft
Buffing
Rs 150 /sqft
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TYPE
THICHNESS
SIZES
RATES
PROCESSES / FINISHING
ACRYLIC SOLID SURFACES (eg. Corian)
Plain white
6mm, 12mm
3680 mm x 760 mm, 2500 mm x 760 mm
Rs 650 to 750 /sqft for (12 mm)
Textured
6mm, 12mm
ARYLLIC
Translucent
Sticking /sqft CNC cutting /sqft Thermoforming /sqft
ENGINEERED STONE
12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm or 30 mm
TACLAM GLASS
Rs 750 to Rs 1500 /sqft (12 mm)
3040 mm x 1440 mm, 3040 mm x 1650 mm
4, 6, 12 mm
PARTICLE BOARD
350 350
Cutting 12 mm – Rs 450 sqft
Mirror
CORIAN, LG- Hausys, SAMSUNGStatron
JOHNSON CRYSTAL, LG- Hausys EDGES: Bullnose, Bevel, Pencil, Dupont, Ogee edge
3 m x 1.2 m Toughened
COMPANIES 250
Sticking Glass Cutting Thermoforming
4 mm – Rs 250 sqft
Lacquered
4, 6 mm
Plain - Interior grade, Wood/ bagasse based
9mm, 12mm, 19mm, 25mm, 35mm
8 ‘ x 4 ‘ ( 2440 mm x 1220 mm ) 8 ‘ x 6 ‘ ( 2440 mm x 1830 mm ) 9 ‘ x 6 ‘ ( 2745 mm x 1830 mm )
4mm – Rs 350 /sqft 19mm – Rs 50 to 110 /sqft
0.6mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm, 1.5mm
2440 mm x 1220 mm (8 ‘x 4 ‘)
750 - 1250 / sheet
Sticking, Cutting,
GreenLam, SunMica,
3, 4, 6, 9, 12, 16, 19, 25 mm
8'×4' ( 2440mm ×1220mm ) 8'×3' ( 2440mm × 920mm ) 7'×4' ( 2140mm ×1220mm ) 7'×3' ( 2140mm × 920mm ) 6'×4' ( 1840mm ×1220mm ) 6'×3' ( 1840mm × 920mm )
4mm – Rs 43 / sqft 6mm – Rs 57 / sqft 9mm – Rs 72 / sqft 12mm – Rs 92 / sqft 16mm – Rs 115 / sqft 19mm – Rs 134 / sqft 25mm – Rs 200 / sqft
Sticking Sawing CNC Cutting
Century, Greenlam, Duro, Kitply, Uniply, Donear, Garnet, Uro, Black Cobra, Virgo,
Pre-laminated
LAMINATES
PLY BOARDS
Marine BWR Grade
Commercial Ply
4mm – Rs 37 / sqft 6mm – Rs 51 / sqft 9mm – Rs 63 / sqft 12mm – Rs 78 / sqft 16mm – Rs 100 / sqft 19mm – Rs 117 / sqft 25mm – Rs 175 / sqft
Pre-laminated
6mm – Rs 42 / sqft 19mm – Rs 125 / sqft
Price Source: Alpro- ply Lado Ram Ji - Prelam
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TYPE
LAMINATES
BLOCK BOARDS
Marine Grade
THICHNESS
SIZES
RATES
PROCESS COMPANIES ES
0.6mm, 0.8mm, 1.0mm, 1.5mm
2440 mm x 1220 mm (8 „x 4 „)
750 - 1250 / sheet
Sticking, Cutting,
19, 25, 30 mm
8'×4' ( 2440mm ×1220mm ) 8'×3' ( 2440mm × 920mm ) 7'×4' ( 2140mm ×1220mm ) 7'×3' ( 2140mm × 920mm ) 6'×4' ( 1840mm ×1220mm ) 6'×3' ( 1840mm × 920mm )
19mm – Rs 125 / sqft 25mm – Rs 156 / sqft 30mm – Rs 190 / sqft
Commerci al Grade
VENEERS
19mm – Rs 115 / sqft 25mm – Rs 145 / sqft 30mm – Rs 175 / sqft
Without 3 mm, 3.5 base panel, mm, 4 mm MDF / ply base panel:
GYPSUM
GreenLam, Orchid Ply,
8 „x 4 „ (2440 mm x 1220 mm )
9mm, 12mm
1840 mm x 1220 mm (6 „ x 4 „)
On 4 mm ply: Rs 96 to Rs 640
MDF
Interior, Exterior, Plain Prelaminated, Perforated
2.5, 3, 4, 6, 8, 9,10, 12 , 15,19, 25, 3 0, 35 mm
2440 mm x 1220 mm (8 „ x 4 „)
6mm 27– 33 / sqft 12mm 47 – 58 / sqft 19mm 68 – 83 / sqft 25mm 125 – 152 / sqft
HONEY-COMB BOARD
MDF / pinewood internal, Finish Laminate, Veneer
Thicknesses from 30 mm to 100 mm are available
According to drawings, depends only on veneers / laminates to be used 2440 mm x 1220 mm (8 „x 4 „)
30mm ,35mm or 40 mm – Rs 300 to 350 raw (add select Vineer)
Honeycomb Table Tops Sourcehttp://www.indiamart.com/southin dia-trading/honeycombfurniture.html#honeycomb-tabletops
CEMENT PARTICLE BOARD
Plain, Prelam, Textured
4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20, 25 mm
610 mm x 610 mm (2 „ x 2 „) 1220 mm x 1220 mm (4 „ x 4 „) 1840 mm x 1220 mm (6 „ x 4 „) 2440 mm x 1220 mm (8 „ x 4 „) 3050mm x 1220 mm (10 „ x4„)
6mm, Rs 22 / sqft 10mm, Rs 38 / sqft 12mm, Rs 46 / sqft
Bison Panels Price Sourcehttp://www.ojasdekor.com/price_li st.htm
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5. insights
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5. Insights
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Team Profile Furniture design team has involvement of five people who belong to Architecture and Industrial Design background. Sourabh gupta Director Archohm consults private limited
Pradnya patil Industrial Design student School of Planning & architecture, New Delhi
Gopendra singh Master of design School of Planning & architecture, New Delhi
Husain aijaz Architecture student School of Planning & architecture, New Delhi
Sidhharth bathla Master of design IIT, Kanpur
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