PUBLIC SEATING ‘A’ - PRODUCT ANALYSIS
V. Ryan © 2015
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| Product analysis involves looking closely at existing products and identifying how they work, the materials they are made from, the industrial processes used to manufacture them and their key features. It may also involves the designer asking the general public or potential customers what they think of the product. The aim of product analysis is to help the designer develop even better designs and products in the future. |
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SUITABILITY OF MATERIALS: Polypropylene has been used for the surfaces of the seat. This is because it can be moulded into almost any shape through the process called injection moulding. The main structure is manufactured from aluminium, spray painted to add a suitable colour OR polypropylene again. The polypropylene and aluminium can be recycled at the end of the seats lifetime. ERGONOMICS: The seats have been designed with ergonomics in mind. The polypropylene is slightly flexible, which means it does not feel as rigid as a metal or some natural and manmade woods. This adds to the comfort. The seats have been positioned at one height, determined by working out the average comfortable seating height of hundreds of potential users. STYLE / AESTHETICS: The seat is quite stylish. Because polypropylene has been used for the seats, it is possible to mould it into almost any shape. The ‘leaf’ like slots in the back of each ‘chair’ add a natural look to this ‘plastic’ material. Also, a green pigment has been added to give the illusion of a natural materials being used. The seat is modernist in style. WEATHER RESISTANCE: Both polypropylene and aluminium are weather resistant, increasing the lifetime of the seating. Both materials do not need continual maintenance such as painting or repairs due to corrosion. SUITABILITY FOR ADULTS AND YOUNG CHILDREN: The seating is suitable for adults but not perfect for young children. It is possible that one or more of the seats could be adapted, so that it is at the right height and size for a young child, or so that a child’s buggy could be safely interlocked with it. EXPANDABILITY: The seat cannot be expanded except by the addition of another three seating system. The design would need to be updated so that other seats could be added / locked in position. |
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