STROLL UP
YA-LUN LEE PROFESSOR KATRIN MUELLER-RUSSO
ST RO L L U P R EI M AG I N E A N U R B A N- F R I E N D LY ST RO LLE R by Ya-Lun Lee
Š 2015 Ya-Lun Lee
A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Industrial Design School of Design Pratt Institute Dec 2015
A C K N O W LE D G M E N T S
I would like to thank, first and foremost, my advisor, Katrin Mueller-Russo, for the support and advice guiding me through the process, all of the experts, young parents, and babysitters who shared their experiences and expertise, friends who helped me build the model and produce the films. Lastly, I would like to thank my family, friends, and classmates for their assistance and support over the course of my academic career at Pratt Institute.
TA B LE O F C O N T EN TS
1 . INT RODUCTIO N
1.1. Stroller In New York City
1.2. Unfriendly Facilities
1.3. Impractical Stroller Design
1.4. Design Goal
2. RE S E A RC H
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19
2.1. Ethnography Method
2.1.1. Preparing For Observation
2.1.2. Common Issues With The Stroller
2.1.3. Conversation With Parents, Babysitters, And Experts
2.1.4. Findings
2.1.5. Scenarios
2.2. Review
2.2.1. Baby Growing Timeline And Product Map
2.2.2. Competitor Product Analysis
2.2.3. Opportunity
3 . CONCEP T
3.1. Stroll And Carry
3.2. Load Carriage Study
3.3. Human Scale Study
35
4 . DE SIGN DEVELO P MEN T
4.1. Mechanism Exploration
4.2. Material Exploration
4.3. Full-Scale Prototyping
4.3.1. CMF And Detail Definition
5. FINAL DESIGN
5.1. Stroll Up
5.2. Applications
5.3. Further Development
6. CON CLUSIO N
41
51
57
6.1. Final Thought
BIBLIO G RAP HY
66
A PPE N DICES
68
L I ST O F F I G U R ES
Figure 1.1: Strollers in Tribeca river park, NY Figure 1.2: Grand Central Station, NY Figure 1.3: Difference between the subway facilities in New York City and Taipei Figure 1.4: Percentage of the stations without elevators Figure 1.5: Daily ridership of MTA subway Figure 1.6: Safety rule for strollers on the bus Figure 1.7: User manual from Maclaren Figure 1.8: A young mother asked for help at the subway station Figure 1.9: Staircase at a subway station Figure 2.1: Conversation with a young mother at Prospect Park, NY Figure 2.2: Area choices for conducting observation Figure 2.3: Two persons were trying to carry the stroller through the steps Figure 2.4: A gap between the train and platform Figure 2.5: A stroller blocked the space on the train Figure 2.6: A stroller with bags hanged on the handle Figure 2.7: A person pushed the stroller down through the steps Figure 2.8: Scenario break down Figure 2.9: Pictures from the scenario - 1 Figure 2.10: Pictures from the scenario - 2 Figure 2.11: Thumbnails for baby growing timeline and product map Figure 2.12: Stroller types Figure 2.13: Carrier types Figure 2.14: Matrix analysis on baby transportation tool Figure 3.1: Locations for different needs Figure 3.2: Stroll and carry Figure 3.3: Load carriage study Figure 3.4: Baby figure Figure 3.5: Measurements of human body
Figure 3.6: Sketch template Figure 3.7: Learning to use a baby carrier Figure 4.1: Adjustable locking hinge Figure 4.2: Retractable mechanism Figure 4.3: Small-scale models Figure 4.4: Various soft materials Figure 4.5: Straps on the stroller Figure 4.6: Full-scale prototype - 1 Figure 4.7: Patent drawings for suicase mechanism Figure 4.8: Sketches of retractable frame Figure 4.9: A beer vendor carrying the tray with a strap Figure 4.10: Sketches of handle Figure 4.11: Full-scale prototype - 2 Figure 4.12: Using 3d scanned female as a reference Figure 4.13: Various 3d printed parts for quick evaluation Figure 4.14: Testing ABS joint on aluminum tube Figure 4.15: 3d printed frame in Nylon Figure 4.16: Water repellant fabric and color scheme Figure 5.1: Stroll Up Figure 5.2: Stroll up in context Figure 5.3: Compressing Stroll Up into a carrier Figure 5.4: Carrying Stroll Up on the shoulder Figure 5.5: Transformation of Stroll Up Figure 5.6: Carrying Stroll up to walk up the stairs Figure 5.7: Sitting with Stroll Up resting on the laps Figure 5.8: Further development Figure 6.1: Lifting up the stroller
8 Stroll Up
1
INTRODUCTION
1.1. Stroller In New York City 1.2. Unfriendly Facilities 1.3. Impractical Stroller Design 1.4. Design Goal
Stroll Up 9
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION 1 . 1 . S T RO LLER IN N EW YO RK C I T Y
The baby stroller is one of the necessary
Since urbanization comes with a rapid growth
transportation tools for parents and their infants.
of population and the development of public
Its function is to fulfill safety and mobility needs
transit system, one of the benefits of living in New
of parents and infants, to enable the user to travel
York is that it has one of the largest mass transit
to their destination with ease while keeping their
networks in the world. The New York City subway
baby safe.
has stations in gridded distribution throughout Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. As a
When I first came to New York, one of the initial
result, traveling in the city is easy and efficient for
things I noticed was how frequently I saw
city-dwellers.
people with strollers. Young parents were very accustomed to traveling with their children while exploring the lively metropolis. However, in this urban environment, using a stroller can be problematic and can expose the child to danger.
Fig.1.1 Strollers in Tribeca river park, NY
10 Stroll Up
INTRODUCTION
Though transporting infants with a stroller is usually limited by distance, the New York City transit system allows people to access subway stations that are within a walking distance from where they live, and transports nearly six million passengers across the dense city environment on a daily basis. The city bus service further completes this transit network, which greatly increases the convenience and efficiency of the mass transit system, and reduces the frequency of using personal vehicles to achieve the idea of the sustainable and efficient city.
Fig.1.2 Grand Central Station, NY
(source: unsplash, https://unsplash.com/photos/2Qm47LI0W1c)
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INTRODUCTION
1 . 2 . COM PARISO N W ITH TAIP EI
In a city with a dense population, the subway
But, from my observations, the process of bringing
system plays a crucial role in mass transportation.
a stroller and infant onto the subways system
The Subway systems expand the travel distance,
in New York seems much more challenging
so that city residents are no longer limited to the
compared to Taipei. The key difference between
places only in their neighborhood, and have more
the two cities is public infrastructure. In Taipei
options for outings with their children, such as
every subway station is fully equipped with
river-parks, museums, playgrounds and markets.
accessible facilities such as elevators, ramps, and
However, in New York City, often poorly designed
automatic gates to fulfill universal needs, whereas
public facilities and subway platforms, or
there is still an enormous lack of accessibility
impractical policy could restrict these users and
infrastructure in New York. Another issue that
lead to unexpected risk and inaccessibility. Due
I considered, other than the built environment,
to the facilities, infrastructure, and New York City
occurred to me. I started to wonder do people
policy, later in this paper I will discuss scenarios
behave differently in different context and
that may occur.
culture?
Taipei, the capital of Taiwan, my hometown, also
I became very curious and wanted to understand
has an incredibly dense population and a mass
this product on a deeper level.
transit system similar to New York. The young parents with strollers in Taipei are also very accustomed to utilizing the subway system for daily commute as well.
1. How does a young parent with stroller approach accessing the subway station through the staircase? 2. How does a stroller user pass through a non-automatic gate? 3. How does a stroller user move between different platforms?
12 Stroll Up
INTRODUCTION
N EW YO R K C I TY
TA I P E I
(source: http://www.fgu.edu.tw/~94411002/TaipeiMRT/3-2htm)
Staircase at the subway entrance
Subway entrance with elevator
Hard to move between different platforms
Using the ramp to go to different platforms
(source: http://www.sempo.dorts.gov.taipei/lp.asp?ct Node=22807&CtUnit=6616&BaseDSD=7&mp=115021)
Manually open the door
Enter through automatic gate
Fig.1.3 Difference between the subway facilities in New York City and Taipei
Stroll Up 13
INTRODUCTION
1 . 3. U NFRIEN DLY FAC ILITIES
According to the statistics from Metropolitan
Currently, there are so few subway stations in New
Transportation Authority (MTA), average
York City that are elevator and ramp accessible.
weekday subway ridership was 5.6 million in
The system can barely be considered user-
2014(fig. 1.5), and 82 % (384 among total 469) of
friendly. The width of the stairs and platforms are
the stations were not accessible by elevators (fig.
not designed to accommodate the current number
1.4). Furthermore, one of the MTA safety rules
of passengers, and many of the thoughtless
requires people to fold the stroller on the bus
policies become a barrier for users. This causes
(fig. 1.6). Although New York City has a widely
enormous trouble to people who frequently use
expanded mass transit system to satisfy the
the stroller. As a result, these young parents have
public demands, most of the stations are not well-
to ask for other passengers’ help to overcome
planned to fulfill universal needs for the disabled
different obstacles. This travel experience comes
and for stroller users.
to greatly rely on other passengers and encourage this dependency on strangers.
M TA FA C T S Fig.1.4
Fig.1.5
Fig.1.6
of total 469 stations have NO elevators
5.6 million daily ridership
NO unfolded strollers on the bus (source: MTA , image created by Ya-Lun Lee)
14 Stroll Up
INTRODUCTION
1 . 4 . IMP RACTIC AL STRO LLE R DE S I GN
To understand how this inconvenient scenario
Though most strollers are designed to be easily
is reflected in the current stroller design, I tested
folded, trying to fold a stroller near an indoor
out some of the current strollers on the market.
or outdoor staircase subway entrance is an
According to the user manual from Maclaren, to
impractical situation and could be dangerous to
use the stroller correctly, the parent should keep
both parent and baby. For instance, in a crowded,
the baby in the stroller with the safety belt on.
public transportation scenario, when a young
Also, it is not recommended to lift up the stroller,
mother tries to fold the stroller after taking the
and it is also not recommended to stroll down the
baby out in front of the stairs, she must then
stairs (fig. 1.7).
carry the stroller with one arm down the stairs, while her other arm holds her baby. In this case, the parent increases the risk to the baby of being injured by not having hands available to keep
U S ER M A N UA L FRO M M AC LA R EN
balance and protect her baby from falling. Therefore, stroller-users usually opt to seek help from other passengers to carry an unfolded
Fig.1.7
stroller with a baby seated inside, and then walk up and down the steps (fig. 1.8). Despite the inconvenience and clumsiness of moving, the result reflects the natural behavior of how these city parents adapt to these urban obstacles.
Do not lift up the stroller
Do not stroll down the stroller
(source: Maclaren)
Fig.1.8 A young mother asked for help at the subway station
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INTRODUCTION
1 . 5. DE S IG N GOAL
How can design assist young parents in using a stroller on stairs safely and independently, within the mass-transit environment?
As an industrial designer, my responsibility is to provide a creative and practical solution based on the perspective of user’s behavior in the real-world setting. City parents should be able to operate the stroller independently with little help from others, and walk through various urban terrains. I defined my project objective by asking this question: How can design assist young parents in using a stroller on stairs safely and independently, within the mass-transit environment?
Fig.1.9 Staircase at a subway station
16 Stroll Up
(source: unsplash, https://unsplash.com/photos/eZC5I4ozAMA)
2
RESEARCH
2.1. Ethnography Method
2.1.1. Preparing For Observation
2.1.2. Common Issues With The Stroller
2.1.3. Conversation With Parents, Babysitters, And Experts
2.1.4. Findings
2.1.5. Scenarios
2.2. Review
2.2.1. Baby growing timeline and Product Map
2.2.2. Competitor Product Analysis
2.2.3. Opportunity
Stroll Up 17
RESEARCH
RESEARCH 2.1 . E T HN O G RAP HY ME THO D
“ ... focus on where the products go wrong, rather than when products work as planned. “
– Norman. Don. 2013. The design of everyday things
Ethnography study was used during my initial
Parents and caregivers will be the ones to use the
research. As Wasson stated, “...the Ethnography
results of the design process. Therefore, through
approaches should investigate not only what
a series of observations and conversations with
consumers say they do, but also what they do.”
young parents, I will create a design that is cre-
(Wasson 2000). Also, Norman further emphasized
ative yet practical, and fulfills the real needs of the
that designers should more focus on where the
user for the specific context.
products go wrong, rather than when products work as planned (Norman 2013, 9). In the case of the stroller, which requires a huge amount of human operation, through this method I was able to gain insights from urban parents, and understand more practically the problems that came with using a stroller in a mass transit environment.
Fig.2.1 Conversation with a young mother at Prospect Park, NY
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RESEARCH
2.1 . 1 . P REPARIN G FO R O B S E RVAT I O N
Through a series of observations, designers
Based on the two principles described below, I
can receive insights into consumers’ behavior,
chose three distinct locations - subway station,
in order to gain a better understanding of how
supermarket, and park - where users with strollers
people use products in their daily life (Wasson
frequented to conduct my initial observations
2000). To conduct a successful observation, Chris
about how these users behaved within the urban
Milton has mentioned a few points to assure the
environment. Throughout this process, a few
authenticity of the collected data in his book,
issues drew my attention that I will discuss in
Research methods for product design (Milton and
section 2.1.2.
Rodgers 2013):
•
Have a specific question or a general sense that more information is needed on a particular topic and then examine the behaviors of people in their natural surroundings over a prolonged period.
•
Identify and locate the people for study in a particular environment, culture or geographical location. – Milton, Chris, and Paul Rodgers. 2013. Research methods for product design
A R EAS FO R O B S ERVAT I O N Subway station
Supermarket
Park
Fig.2.2 Area choices for conducting observation
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RESEARCH
2.1 . 2 . COMMO N ISSUES W ITH T H E S T RO LLE R
At a subway station without elevator, young parents tended to seek help while encountering stairs. To walk up and down the steps, one person held the protection bar in the front of the stroller, while another carried the handle of the stroller. On a narrow stairway or pathway, walking up or down the steps with two people carrying the stroller was difficult and would block most of the space.
Fig.2.3 Two persons were trying to carry the stroller through the steps
When getting on the train, the stroller slowed down people entering.
Some of the subway platforms had a very wide gap between the train and the platform. Parents had to lift up the stroller to enter. Fig.2.4 A gap between the train and platform
The size of the stroller was too big for optimal use of the subway car. The stroller tended to occupy too much space, blocking other passengers’ way while entering.
When the train door closed, the parent was still trapped in the train and could be caught by the door. This could lead to injuries.
Fig.2.5 A stroller blocked the space on the train
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RESEARCH
Sometimes parents hung overloaded grocery bags on the stroller, which was troublesome while walking.
Aisles in the market sometimes were too narrow for a stroller to enter.
Some of the supermarkets were not equipped with an automatic door so that a user with a stroller could not open it easily.
Fig.2.6 A stroller with bags hanged on the handle
Some parks had few accessible ramps, so the user had to lift up the stroller to go down a few steps.
In a residential building, when the elevator was broken or occupied by tenants, a parent was unable to transport the stroller up or down.
Fig.2.7 A person pushed the stroller down through the steps
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RESEARCH
2.1 . 3. CONVERSATIO N W ITH PARE NTS , BABYS I T T E RS , AND E X PE RTS
Along with initial observations in the city, I
The participants of the interview included four
targeted the user group to conduct an interview.
babysitters and five parents, as well as two
This research used informal conversation as well
professionals, an experienced stroller designer
as designated questionnaires. The objective of
and an owner of a juvenile product store.
the interview was to extract insights from their experience that I was unable to access during
The participants of the interview were selected
the observation. Moreover, through a direct
based on the two prerequisites: 1. The interviewee
conversation, the user’s attitude and satisfaction
was accustomed to taking care of babies and
toward the stroller were also revealed.
using a stroller, and 2.the interviewee had experiences in using the stroller within the mass transit system.
FEED BAC K FRO M EX P ERTS
JOEL WENNERSTROM Stroller Designer
“ I like that you are thinking about the duration and the amount of strength one must have in various situations when transporting an infant. ... concentrate on the ergonomics of the carrying, lifting, climbing, setting down and comfort issues. “
22 Stroll Up
DAREK Store Owner of Height Kids
“ I suggest you add straps on the back of the stroller, so that it is easier for people to carry when it is folded. “
RESEARCH
FEED BAC K FRO M PA R EN TS A N D BA BYS I TT ERS
VALESKA, 27
“ Usually, if I go out with Callein, I will avoid going to a station that has no elevators. “
MONICA, 32
“ I always felt overwhelmed while taking the subway, especially if I had to climb those stairs at a crowded station. “
DAVID, 38
“ I like using the carrier for my daughter, Helena since it is much easier for me to move around while taking the subway. “
XIMENA, 29
“ I will use a smaller stroller if I take the train. “
Stroll Up 23
RESEARCH
2.1 . 4 . FIN DIN G S
As the MTA stated, currently only 18% of the total
Therefore, when they traveled alone, they
469 MTA stations provide accessible facilities
commonly had to seek help from other passengers
such as elevators, automatic gates, and ramps to
to get through the subway system. Further details
fulfill universal needs for the disabled and stroller
were also brought up in the conversations such
users. Average weekday rider-ship was reported
as how users managed to avoid the situation of
to reach 5.6 million, the highest peak since 1949,
climbing the stairs by planning ahead to only
which led New York City subway to become one of
go to the stations that had elevators, and how
the highest annual ridership systems in the world.
troublesome it was to take the stroller on the
Also, safety policy suggested strollers be folded
subway without blocking other passengers.
before entering the bus and should remain folded for the duration of the trip (MTA 2015). The information above describes how inconvenient this system is for city parents with a stroller while transferring within the subway system. Aside from my observation and research revealing statistics information and rules provided by MTA, having direct conversations with users allowed me to understand further
T H E M O ST C RU C I A L I SS U ES
that people commonly have similar issues while using the stroller in a mass-transit environment. From these interviews I also gained a different perspective and new insights that helped me thoroughly understand the scenarios in context, and extract potential solutions. From the results it can be concluded that the most challenging issue parents encountered was climbing up and down the stairs and maneuvering the stroller on a platform packed with passengers.
24 Stroll Up
1. Climb up and down the stairs 2. Had to seek for other passengers’ help 3. Avoid the situation by planning ahead on only going to the stations that had elevators 4. Block other passengers on the train
RESEARCH
2.1 . 5. SC ENARIO S
Based on the information I obtained from the previous research, a full scenario was illustrated to present every keyframe and issue that would happen during the trip in a mass-transit environment with a stroller (fig. 2.8). This process was also revealed in a film that was taken while I was shadowing a young mother on her daily commute. Pictures from the scenario on the following page. 1.
The scenario started from her encountering the entrance where she had to wait for someone’s help to carry the stroller through the stairs.
2. Before entering the gate, she notified the subway staff to open the door for her.
3. Then, the stroller was lifted up to cross over a gap between the train and the platform while boarding.
4. After finally sitting on the train, she worried the stroller might take too much space and block the entrance for other passengers.
5. And the same issues appeared again when she got off and returned to the ground level.
S C EN A R I O B R EA K D OW N
Fig.2.8
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Fig.2.9 Pictures from the scenario - 1
26 Stroll Up
Fig.2.10 Pictures from the scenario - 2
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RESEARCH
2.2. RE VI EW 2.2.1 . BA BY GRO W IN G TIMELINE AND PRO DUCT MAP
To better understand the average anthropometric information of a baby, as well as their physical capabilities and constraints from newborn to five years old, I created a chronological diagram to clarify what age range I was targeting on.
Targeting on: •
Age 12 to 36 months
•
Average 20 to 30 lbs, 29 to 38 inches
BA BY G ROW I N G T I M ELI N E See appendice for full view
Fig.2.11 Thumbnails for baby growing timeline and product map
28 Stroll Up
(source: Babycenter , image created by Ya-Lun Lee)
RESEARCH
Based on this timeline, a product map was also generated to give more reference and inspiration. I chose to focus on the baby whose age was ranging from 12 to 36 months, when they had developed neck muscles to sit in the stroller but were not yet capable of climbing stairs without support.
•
Have developed neck muscles to sit in the stroller but are not yet capable of climbing stairs without support
P RO D U CT M A P See appendices for full view
(source: Babycenter , created by Ya-Lun Lee)
Stroll Up 29
RESEARCH
2.2.2. COMP E TITO R P RO DUCT ANALYS I S
ST RO LLER TY P ES
I started to look at different types of strollers. Based on my observation and interviews, the standard-sized stroller and the lightweight stroller are currently the two dominant types in New York City. There are also various strollers tailored for certain customers to
STANDARD
LIGHTWEIGHT
fit into different lifestyles. For instance, the jogging stroller is designed for parents who are accustomed to doing exercise while strolling with baby. The travel system can replace the stroller seat with car seat, and the double or triple stroller is customized for parents or babysitter who has more than one child to take care of.
TRAVEL SYSTEM Fig.2.12
30 Stroll Up
DOUBLE
JOGGING
RESEARCH
CA R R I ER TY P ES
Another convenient medium for transporting a baby is the carrier. Based on its complexity, the carrier can be categorized into three types: 1. baby wrap, CARRIER
usually referring to a fabric or sling, 2. baby carrier, a specialized soft good with straps that can be put on user’s shoulder, and 3. hiking carrier, a carrier combined with a backpack, particularly designed for outdoor scenarios.
BABYWRAP
HIKING CARRIER Fig.2.13
Stroll Up 31
RESEARCH
2.2.3 . OPPO RTUN IT Y
An analysis was conducted through a matrix I
Through this practice, the differences of these
created to evaluate the features and potential
products emerged. While using a baby carrier one
opportunities. To have a full assessment of
is more agile and able to move through different
current baby transportation methods, besides
terrains, like climbing stairs or even hiking, but
the strollers, different types of baby carriers were
requires more physical effort. In comparison, a
also included and positioned based on the levels
stroller allows one almost effortlessly to walk for a
of agility and how much physical effort that are
longer duration but is more clumsy to maneuver.
required from the parent.
BA BY T R A N S PO RTAT I O N TO O LS A N A LYS I S
AG I L E
Des i g n O p p o r tu n i ty
LESS PHYSICAL EFFORT
MORE PHYSICAL EFFORT
CUMBERSOME Fig.2.14
32 Stroll Up
3
CONCEPT
3.1. Stroll And Carry 3.2. Load Carriage Study 3.3. Human Scale Study
Stroll Up 33
CONCEPT
CONCEPT 3 .1 . S T ROLL AN D CARRY
There were two primary factors that had drawn
I defined the type of stroller qualities needed
my attention while developing the concept: 1.
at certain locations that users commonly
Agility/Adaptability, such as the different needs
encountered during a trip within the mass-
on agility for a stroller between on the ground
transit environment. Each location stated has
maneuvering and subway station maneuvering,
significantly different needs or issues while using
and 2. Duration, such as how much time during a
the stroller.
trip will the user spend climbing stairs compared
1. on the ground
with strolling on the ground.
2. through the stairs 3. in the train.
LO CAT I O N S FO R D I FFER EN T N EED S 1. ON THE GROUND
2. THROUGH THE STAIRS
3. IN THE TRAIN
LONG DURATION STROLL
TRANSITION EASY TO CARRY
TRANSITION SAVE SPACE
Fig.3.1
Based on the considerations, I narrowed down the design goals:
1. The user can independently climb the stairs. 2. The stroller can adapt to various mass-transit scenarios.
34 Stroll Up
CONCEPT
What if a stroller could transform into a carrier when the agility to cross over difficult terrains is needed, and when back on the ground, it returns to a full-size stroller that allows me to easily continue on to a longer distance stroll.
LONG DURATION
TRANSITION
LONG DURATION
STROLLER
CARRIER
STROLLER
Stroll
Stroll Easy to carry
Save space
Easy to carry
Fig.3.2 Stroll and carry
Stroll Up 35
CONCEPT
3 .2. LOA D CARRIAGE STUDY
The first and foremost concern was how feasible
While the unit weight of a stroller varies
it is for a person to carry the weight of a stroller
enormously from one type to another, I chose
with baby. In a recent ergonomics study on
to focus on the lightweight stroller that has the
female hikers, researchers put different amounts
average weight as 12 pounds and was closer
of weight in backpacks to evaluate how much
aligned with the design needs.
weight a person should carry while hiking without increasing their injury risk. The study concluded
Based on the information provided, the total
that a backpack load limit of 30% body weight
weight of a stroller and baby was less than the
was recommended during prolonged walking
suggested percentage of an average female body
(Simpson, Munro, and Steele 2011).
weight (fig. 3.3).
As the national health statistics report stated, the average weight of a baby from 12 to 36 months is 20 to 30 pounds and for a 20 to 30 years old female, the average body weight is 144.8 pounds (Margaret, Fryar, Ogden and Flegal 2008).
AVERAGE FEMALE BODY WEIGHT AGE 20 TO 29 YRS 144.8 LBS AVERAGE BABY WEIGHT AGE 12 TO 36 MTHS 20 TO 30 LBS
LIGHTWEIGHT STROLLER 12 LBS
Fig.3.3 Load carriage study
36 Stroll Up
30% OF BODY WEIGHT (43.4/144.8 lbs) 12 lbs 20~30 lbs
CONCEPT
3 .3 . HUMAN SCALE STUDY
Another crucial concern was how the stroller was positioned on the user’s body and the sequence of transforming it into a carrier. At the earlier stage, I made a full-scale baby figure based on the true proportion and tested out a few strollers and carriers to familiarize me with the dimensions and operation process. I also looked at the average measurements of humans, and how the stroller and carrier related to the human body on three
Fig.3.4 Baby figure
dimensions. At this stage, manipulating these tools and the baby figure helped me to envision and generate concepts. By having these objects to use as a reference along the developing process, I could also keep the related dimensions in mind while exploring different approaches. This process led me to start thinking two main questions: How can a stroller transform into a carrier size?
(source: Uppababy image created by Ya-Lun Lee) Fig.3.5 Measurements of human body
How can a stroller be carried on human’s body?
Fig.3.6 Sketch template
Stroll Up 37
Fig.3.7 Learning to use a baby carrier
38 Stroll Up
4
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
4.1. Mechanism Exploration 4.2. Material Exploration 4.3. Full-scale Prototyping
4.3.1. CMF And Detail Definition
Stroll Up 39
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT 4 .1 . M E CH AN ISM EXP LO RATIO N
To achieve the goal of transforming a stroller into a carrier size, an efficient mechanism played a crucial role in this concept. This mechanism needed to be designed to allow the user intuitively and independently to complete the transformation in as few steps as possible. Since I did not have an engineering background, I looked for advice from two mechanical engineers during my prototyping process. Also, I wanted to explore more broadly,
(source: http://www.adjustablelockingtech.com/index.php) Fig.4.1 Adjustable locking hinge
instead of focusing on the current stroller design and trying to figure out a way to redesign a modified frame. I started to look at the various mechanisms that were related to size-scaling including the rotational hinge, adjustable locking hinge, and retractable self-locking mechanism. Quick
Fig.4.2 Retractable mechanism
ideations were developed by doing sketches and small-scale models. After moving to full-scale prototyping stage, more detailed mechanisms were designed through CAD modeling. Rapid prototyping technology was later introduced to fabricate functional prototypes for evaluating efficiency.
Fig.4.3 Small-scale models
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DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
4 .2. M ATERIAL EXP LO RATI O N
Another key component was how the stroller attaches on human body. Various methods of attachment were tested throughout with the prototyping process. Soft materials that were commonly used in outdoor applications became my primary focus areas such as backpack strap, webbing belt, silicone tubing, rubber sleeve and foam. The usability and intuitiveness of each material were examined during full-scale prototyping.
WEBBING BELT
BACKPACK STRAP NEOPRENE RUBBER
HIGH DENSITY FOAM
SILICONE SLEEVE
WOVEN SLEEVE
Fig.4.4 Various soft materials
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DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
4 .3 . FULL- SCALE P ROTOT YP I NG
Building full-scale mock-ups allowed me to evaluate the sequence of transforming the stroller. In order to build mock-ups and have them tested in an efficient way, I chose to use plywood strips and plastic tubings, so that I could build the frame structure based on the measurements of the stroller. Along with this process, I was able to design and acquire insights by operating these prototypes. At the earlier stage, backpack straps and webbing belts were simply attached behind the stroller seat to assess the relation between human body and the seat, while the stroller was carried on the body (fig. 4.2). Additionally, I tried to use rotational hinges on both handles and legs of the stroller for the purpose of folding.
Fig.4.5 Straps on the stroller
THE STROLLERS WERE TOO LONG WHILE FOLDED AND CARRIED ON ONE’S BODY.
IT WAS DIFFICULT TO PUT THE STRAPS ON ONE’S SHOULDER WITHOUT HELP.
THE SEAT WAS BLOCKING THE LINE OF SIGHT.
THE STROLLER REQUIRED TOO MANY STEPS TO TRANSFORM.
WHEELS WERE INTERFERING ONE’S MOVEMENT WHILE BEING CARRIED.
THE STROLLER WAS ABLE TO BE FOLDED INTO A CARRIER SIZE AND ALLOWED THE USER TO SIT DOWN WHILE IT RESTING ON ONE’S LAPS.
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PROTOTYPE 01
PROTOTYPE 02
PROTOTYPE 03 Fig.4.6 Full-scale prototype - 1
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DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
From the previous mock-ups, a few points needed to be improved. To make the process of transformation simpler and more intuitive, the mechanism needed to be more efficient, using fewer steps and less effort to finish the task. It was crucial to eliminate steps of the process and provide a better, quicker alternative than just bending over and carrying the whole stroller.
(source: http://www.faqs.org/patents/imgfull/20090107788_07) Fig.4.7 Patent drawings for suitcase mechanism
To address this problem, for the following prototypes, I adopted the retractable self-locking mechanism, commonly found in suitcase or clothes hangers, to shorten the overall height of the stroller while being carried on the user’s body. As the user pushes the button, the frame unlocks and one is able to extend or retract. When the button is released, the frame stays and locks to the position. This mechanism not only helped me simplify the steps of transformation, but also led
Fig.4.8 Sketches of retractable frame
to a more intuitive process. Another crucial aspect of the design was inspired by the beer vendors in baseball games who frequently climbed up and down the stairs with a vending tray carrying gallons of beer on their shoulders and neck. I incorporated the handle as a close loop that rests on user’s shoulders while carrying the stroller to lift up the overall weight.
(source: http://www.amazon.com) Fig.4.9 A beer vendor carrying the tray with a strap
Rubber, silicone, and foam sleeves were tested to evaluate its comfort on one’s shoulders and rigidity as a handle.
Fig.4.10 Sketches of handle
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PROTOTYPE 04
PROTOTYPE 05 Fig.4.11 Full-scale prototype - 2
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DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
4 .3 .1 . CMF AN D DE TAIL DEFIN I T I O N
In conjunction with full-scale prototypes, I worked on CAD modeling to design a more detailed mechanism and define dimensions for each component. At this stage, hand sketches and results of models were transferred into digital data. This process involved referring to measurements of the stroller and human as well as importing 3d scanned female adult and baby as the quick reference for ergonomic considerations.
Fig.4.12 Using 3d scanned female as a reference
To evaluate the usability of mechanisms, I worked closely with 3d printing industries. Functional mechanisms and precision were achieved in a quick turn-around time, which allowed me to test and make alterations efficiently. This technology was also later to be utilized for my final model. For future production, the materials will be aluminum tubes combined with fiberglass-reinforced nylon, which is a lightweight plastic and has a strong ability to absorb impact. Applications include helmets and accessories for sport, outdoor, leisure, fashion and furniture products (Material Connexion 2015). As for the prototyping, I used 3d printed Nylon and ABS for the plastic parts. I also looked at different fabrics for the soft part of the seat. I chose to use water repellant fabric on the outside of the seat, and cotton on the inside. The color choice was navy blue, to give the stroller a unisex image.
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Fig.4.13 Various 3d printed parts for quick evaluation
Fig.4.14 Testing ABS joint on aluminum tube
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Fig.4.15 3d printed frame in Nylon
Fig.4.16 Water repellant fabric and color scheme
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5
FINAL DESIGN
5.1. Stroll Up 5.2. Applications 5.3. Further Development
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REIMAGINE AN URBAN-FRIENDLY STROLLER
Fig.5.1 Stroll up
FINAL DESIGN
FINAL DESIGN 5.1 . S T ROLL UP
Stroll up is an urban-friendly stroller that allows young parents to independently adapt to the various, mass-transit situations in the city. It is designed to be easily transformed from a stroller to a baby carrier depending on different scenarios, to better align with a user’s need. Due to its auto-locking retractable mechanism on both the handle and side frames, the user is able to easily transform Stroll Up and adapt to multiple applications in two steps - by simply pushing the button to unlock the mechanism, and extending or retracting the structure. The handle is designed to fit human’s shoulder and is covered with flexible, high-density foam that can provide comfort while being carried.
Fig.5.2 Stroll up in context
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Fig.5.3 Compressing Stroll Up into a carrier
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Fig.5.4 Carrying Stroll Up on the shoulder
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FINAL DESIGN
5.2. A PPLIC ATIO N S
Stroll Up is designed to address multiple issues that commonly occur in a mass-transportation environment. Different applications are described in the images below. When a young parent and their baby are going on a trip by subway, Stroll Up can be used as a full-size stroller on flat ground when handles and legs are extended. After seeing a station entrance, the user compresses the stroller into a carrier and easily walks down the steps and over varying levels in the underground subway system. While sitting in the train, Stroll Up also allows the user to rest the stroller on one’s laps without blocking other passengers.
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Fig.5.5 Transformation of Stroll Up
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CA R RY I N G S T RO LL U P T O WA LK U P T H E S TA I RS
Fig.5.6 Carrying Stroll up to walk up the stairs
S I T T I N G W I T H ST RO LL U P R E ST I N G O N T H E LA P S
Fig.5.7 Sitting with Stroll Up resting on the laps
FINAL DESIGN
5.3 . FURTHER DEVELO P MEN T
Further improvements can be made into two directions: 1. increasing comfort and 2. improving efficiency.
COMPOSITE MATERIAL
Regarding comfortability, using a composite material that combines Neoprene with strong plastic on the handle can enhance the flexibility INTEGRATED BUTTON
of the handle while the user is placing the stroller on the shoulder. Inspiration for another improvement came from the hiking backpack. Adding an extra waist buckle on Stroll Up could help the user better distribute the overall weight to the whole body. In consideration of baby’s comfort and safety, a foot rest should also be added on the future prototypes. I also saw the potential for Stroll Up to further improve the efficiency of its transformation. By integrating the buttons of two retractable mechanisms into one, on the handle similar to suitcase design, the user can achieve the
REFLECTIVE RING WAIST BUCKLE
transformation in only one step that is more intuitive to use and requires less effort. Using reflective paint or embedding LED ring around the frame can also add extra visibility and safety within a darker environment such as underground subway stations, acting as a visual indicator to both parent and other passengers.
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Fig.5.8 Further development
6
CONCLUSION
6.1. Final Thought
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CONCLUSION
CONCLUSION 6.1 . FINA L THO UG HT
Using a stroller in a subway station has been a
Stroll Up provides a different vision to look at
long-standing problem for many young parents
this long-standing problem and has the potential
in New York City. This is the most noticeable and
to have a positive impact on many users.
difficult issue for young parents, and puts a barrier
Future development can be achieved by using
between them and their city.
production-level materials and ergonomic testing in an interdisciplinary team with both designers
Though this problem can possibly be solved by adding more accessible elevators and renovating infrastructures of the system, it is unlikely, difficult and expensive to have such a large-scale change. As an industrial designer, my role is to work within current infrastructures and systems to design a product that can change the user’s behavior and lead to a better experience. Stroll Up differs from the many attempts to create a wheeled product that climbs the stairs. I started from the user’s perspective, developing the design by extracting the strengths of two conventional products, and combining them to fit into the specific context. The goal of the design is to give the young parent the confidence to walk independently up and down stairs and to move within the mass-transit environment while traveling in the city.
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and engineers.
Fig.6.1 Lifting up the stroller
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A P P E N D I C ES BABY GROWING TOMELINE CREATED BY YA-LUN LEE, SOURCE:BABYCENTER
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A P P E N D I C ES BABY PRODUCT MAP
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