domestic future-proof radio

BA Product Design: Eco-Powered Radio

Name: Daniel Marshall Student No: 20001964

Existing Products Moodboard:

Daniel Marshall BA Product Design

Existing product research:1. How is the product field merchandised overall? The radio, being an electronic product, is merchandised within large and small businesses. It is retailed on shelving, within packaging and cardboard, and wrapping, to prevent damages and to ensure it is distributed safely. The packaging also retails the product in the form of advertisement be expressing the key features of the internal item and its benefits as a point of sale. Radios are retailed in businesses such as Tesco, where numerous forms of designs would be exhibited alongside along side pricing. Radios would be advertised on television as a means to grasp consumer interest, however in today’s marketing world radios aren’t advertised as much purely because music can be provided from more technical products , (Apple products, MP3 players and mobile phones).

2. What’s the immediate brandscape of competitive brands surrounding your own? The market for radios is highly competitive with companies such as Phillips, Sony and PURE. Existing products look clean and easy to use, as consumers are attracted to products that look good. Existing brands are hard to challenge as the market is huge, so identifying a new solution requires looking towards existing ones and finding a problem which perhaps could be fixed or changed. An example is how some of them feature a docking station for the I phone, (perhaps my solution could look further beyond the I phone and look towards other products in which can be involved within the design). Consumers purchase these products purely because of the recognized brands; they are reliable and trust worthy, (they own consumer loyalty and recognition).

3. How orderly or chaotic is the overall visual impression of the sector? The market for radios years ago was highly chaotic, but has now been suppressed to orderly, purely because they do not sell anymore (progression of technology). Below is a good example of how the sector has progressed, from very vintage designs from 70 odd years ago to highly technical designs which are touch screen such as the Phillips radio. Radios today give the impression they are almost made obsolete because of how they are incorporated with other products such as phones; many phones feature applications in which enable its users to listen to wireless radio on the move. Many consumers may find that the product is very attractive, but it isn’t needed necessarily as it is only a single based product. If all past radios where made obsolete and touch screen radios where the ‘new form’ of listening to music, then this trend would increase. The present trend/ style of listening to music is products such as an I-Pod. Products such as this are difficult to overlap, however it is always possible to make a new form of radio that inherits this existent idea upon many other (idea to power the radio being another).


PURE:

•Qualities of PURE’s designs are that they look good, designed in a contemporary fashion and look simple. These designs sell well mainly because of these contributing factors.

•Weaknesses of these models are that they are expensive and costly, in terms of design because of the materials selected as well as the technology. The second design is highly technical, however this would be high in power as well; not very eco friendly.

PHILLIPS:

•Qualities of PHILLIPS radios is that they look very high tech and clean. They are simple in terms of look and functionality; not many buttons and big, spacious areas on the interface.

•Weaknesses of these models are the choice of materials; are they strong enough to withstand use and waterproof? The material looks weak therefore poor strength. The design wouldn’t fit within all environments either, as all users have different environments.

SONY:

•Qualities of SONY radios such as these designs are that they don’t use many functions, materials or complicated designs.

•Weaknesses of these models are that the buttons are too small and difficult to use by larger proportioned users; anthropometric studies would be advisable for this area.

PANASONIC:

•Qualities of PANASONIC are the nobs and dials are at a good proportion. The designs look strong and robust also.

•Weaknesses of these models relate mainly to the design; bulk and a lot of buttons are placed on both models. Signal frequency parts of the radios may also be snapped off easily. The overall look of the radio isn't very attractive because of buttons and material use. Consumers don’t look to purchase these radios anymore because they have been made obsolete (progression of technology).

Competitors and their qualities/weaknesses:


Competitors and their qualities/weaknesses; (PURE): Technical designs• Looking closely at the competition in which my product will face I have decided to look at one of the best brands in closer detail, PURE, to truly understand their pride radio designs, what

some of their designs mean and how they are specifically retailed; this will enable me to focus on what works well.

Qualities of the CONTOUR:

•This radio is know as the Contour, (in linguistic terms meaning a phonetic sound) in which its name derives from. This device as shown through imagery is designed to hold users I phones, which enables them to have a wider speaker system.

•The contour radio can connect to the internet via a USB Ethernet adapter, (below). This allows the user to connect to digital and FM radio with over 30 stations.

•The product is upgradable via Wi-Fi, Ethernet or USB

•Alarms and time is also included.

•Integrated with existing products; I phone.

Weaknesses of the CONTOUR:

•The retractable unit for the I phone may be weak and break easily.

•Only for the I phone; not a universal design.

•Expensive materials used for manufacture; metals.

•Mains powered via the back of the design; not eco-friendly.

Future Designs:

•The progression of technology will always advance with brand new ideas. This design proposal has been launched but isn't available for retail currently. It is fully touch interactive, with a working performance similar to the I phones layout:


• Some products have a unique, modern design to them. Some look advanced, some look simple and others are highly personal.

Competitors and their qualities/weaknesses; (PURE): Modern designs

Qualities of the EVOKE FLOW:

•EVOKE Flow uses the same Wi-Fi technology as portable computers to connect to the internet wirelessly.

•EVOKE Flow’s touch-sensitive controls

•Large, clear auto dimming graphical OLED display

•Handy alarm clock

•Timers

•Optional rechargeable ChargePAK battery for maximum portability

Weaknesses of the EVOKE FLOW:

•Expensive at £149.99; internet based and expensive materials used.

•Difficult to fit within every users home; single particular design.

Qualities of the EVOKE MIO by Orla Kiely:

•Similar in many ways to the original EVOKE FLOW radio, but this one has a more personal feel towards its look and design. It has been manufactured with a design influenced by the designer herself.

•As shown through imagery, the design works well in a household, and can interact with all environments that it is placed within; kitchen, living room and even a shelf for decoration.

•This is an import piece of research that has shown me that personal design appeals to all users and generally ‘works’.

•It features future design, modern and past designs integrated into one. This is an idea which may inspire my designs.

•Very neatly designed and manufactured, materials include a mirror chromed folding handle, walnut veneered cabinet, cream fascia and a stylish leather tag the radio fits perfectly with Orla’s extensive homeware range.

Weaknesses of the EVOKE MIO by Orla Kiely:

•Apart from pricing at £150.00 which is due to materials, this design doesn’t have many faults as its appealing to a universal of users.


Competitors and their qualities/weaknesses; (PURE): Interchangeability and suiting for all users

• Products are known to be interchangeable/upgradable, through parts or software. I have researched into some radios to learn how they are interchangeable and how some products can be altered to suit ranges of customer tastes.

• This design is sold in 7 different colours, two examples shown. The colouring is a good design for suiting all users in all environments; children's night light would be warm colours like blue and a normal bedside light would be white.

• Colour is a very good idea to implement for my designs as it enables users to apply a colour which best suits their homes.

• Colour is one aspect of aesthetics, as is texture, style and size. These elements are the key to ensuring my design looks good.

• Some radios are sold in different colours, textures and styles for a wide range of options to enjoy.

• This radio is a good example; it is hosted in a range of colours suited for that particular consumers environment, (cutlery, dishes, etc.)

• An interchangeable part for radios can be the outer unit; the casing could be removed and a new, different style could be replaced so the product has some form of difference from time to time.

• Radios have advanced along way, from initial plastic designs such as these which sole purpose was to provide music, (with additional nobs and settings), feature the time and have an alarm clock inter built.

• All radios have numerous things in common however:

-Time-Alarms-USB and other ports-Nobs and buttons-Ariel's-Output speaker areas

• These basic principals should be integrated into my design as they remain classical and practical to install into all designs without looking too futuristic, whilst remaining their natural feel.


What types of radio broadcast designs are there?• DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) is a popular broadcast that is well used on most radios. DAB radio’s are easy to use, much more than

analogue radios because they automatically search for stations. Once the radio has found all available stations you just choose the one you want by name. No more trying to remember frequencies.

• With DAB you get a wider station choice also; as well as many of your existing favourite stations now broadcasting on digital radio, you’ll also find great exclusive – to – digital stations.

• DAB radios have very high sound quality. Unlike analogue radios, DAB give you a more crystal clear sound.

• Extra features are also provided on this type of broadcast, such as scrolling text to show titles, artists’ names, news and sports results. Features like textSCAN and intellitext enable you to pause and control scrolling text and display extra text information from participating stations. Some models also allow you to pause and rewind live digital radio or upgrade the radio or upgrade the radio via USB or WI-FI.

• FM reception enables you to listen to local stations not yet broadcasting digitally and provides listening in remote areas yet to be served by digital transmitters. RDS (Radio Data System) provides extra text information, like station names, broadcast by some FM stations

• Internet radio uses the same Wi-Fi technology as portable computers to connect to the internet wirelessly. Through this connection our flow range of radios allow you to access thousands of radio stations from across the world.

• Wi-Fi enables the user to update the system and/or browse through a large library of music stored on a computer also.

• Some designs also enable you to run internet applications such as Twitter and Facebook.


What is an OLED?• An OLED, (organic light-emitting diode) is related to the commonly known LED. They are naturally used in

television screens, computer monitors, small, portableOLEDs are used in television screens, computer monitors, small, portable system screens such as mobile phones and PDAs, watches, advertising, information, and indication. OLEDs are also used in large-area light-emitting elements for general illumination.

• Below is an example of an OLED in use on this radio. This would be what is to be implemented on my radio design.

• From personal research I have found OLED’s also on my radios, (below);

OLED’s on radios:


• The display is crystal clear, looks neat and is very easy to maintain, (the use of a cloth is usually involved).

Ethnography study:•I have selected a photo ethnography study to carry out a study of the ‘typical user’ using my selected product. I have photographed areas of close functionality of the product, interaction between the user and the product and how this impacts the user generally.


Anthropometric data:

Hand measurements (mm)

Letter Indicator

Part of Hand/Grip

Values

Percentile 5% 50% 95%

I Cylinder grip 40 45 52.5

J Fist Size 92.5 102.5 112.5

K Finger grip 10 12.5 15.0

Ages 15 – 65 years 14 – 9 years 8 – 0 years

L Breadth of hand 87.5 70 62.5

M Length of Hand 187.5 175 140

N Thumb Length 67.5 30 25

• I have researched all anthropometric data and have selected key measurements that apply purely to my project. Hand measurements are the only human element to undertake, as the size of a human in height and diameter isn't necessary for my product, nor relevant.

• All data provided will enable me to produce my designs in perspective of a users interaction. I can produce models and sketches that allow me to see how the design differs from the user.


Persona

Goals

Personal Details

Interests & Hobbies

Education, Career & Experience

Photograph

Personality

Demographic Characteristics

Name: Adam Harris

Age: 27

Gender: Male

• Cycling

• Travelling

• Reading business, economics and ICT articles

• Technology

• Art

• Literature

• Graduate at Exeter University

• Degree in Business Studies

• Aspires to work in Apple head office

• Experiences include placement in Subway franchise, Manager of a M&S store and small time placements.

• Family man

• Travelling on business trips aboard

• London Originated

• Lives in Exeter

• Job in head office at NEXT

• Fun

• Charming

• Respectful in manors

• Hard working

• Colourful character

• Warm hearted

• Technical

• Creative

• Loving for family

• Wife, (Sarah Harris aged 26) and two children, (Alice Harris, aged 3 and Charlie Harris, aged 5).

• Outgoing

• Two cars; Honda Jazz sport (family car) and Jaguar xkr (work car).

• Completing the hardest of tasks for satisfaction

• Perfectionist

• Hard working to be the best of himself

• Maintain a good family by being a good role model for his children

• To ensure family and friends are proud


Technical Research:

• Upon developing my research I have looked towards purchasing an existing radio and have disassembled it to understand what technical parts and elements help to power the device.

• Understanding of course that this model is battery powered I can see how within the back of the product the user can slide off the cover to reveal the insertion point for the batteries, (bottom left).

• The following image shows the overall look and combination of the radio.

• The radios interior shows many parts where bosses and ribs are injection moulded to help keep the product together. The key point in which the radio is powered is through the PCB (printed circuit board).

• The radio is an example of an interactive product, meaning it is computer embedded, (interactivity between the user and the product).

• The product is both physically product designed and digitally product designed. Physical in terms of form, screening, buttons, dialling and power. Digitally in terms of interaction, connectivity and functionality. These contributing factors for interactive products such as the radio are important to undertake when developing ideas., and new solutions.


• This Mobile phone shows how easy it is to interchange new designs; it simply clicks into place onto the product. This is done through ribs and detailed measured accuracy of how the product will interlock.

Technical Research Continued:

• I have looked further into learning the interiors of other radios by disassembling my alarm clock/cd player radio.

• This radio discovered to be more complicated mainly because it is a bigger design, but it relates to the other radios interior; printed circuitry, LCD for the screening, etc. This design also features a cooling fan so the interior doesn’t overheat. It is wise to apply some form of vent to let heat escape from the radio otherwise is will ruin.

• I have disassembled the outer body to see how the design has been made. The entire shell has been injection moulded as the finishing points are left on the design, (bottom left image).

• The image above is a boss with secure ribs to distribute the weight of the strength of the material to ensure it can withstand use and is self-sustainable.

• Numerous boss designs have been injected onto this product for the screws to provide connectivity of the parts. The plastic is recyclable and is ABS plastic.


Questionnaire results:1. Do you currently possess a radio in your household?

5 people

15 people

2. If yes, where do you keep/place the radio in your household?

12 people

4 people4 people

2 people

5 people 0 people0 people

3. Would you like the idea of an eco-friendly powered radio?

17 people

3 people

4. If No, please provide reasons, (3 people):

•“Don’t think it’s a good idea.”

•“Don’t listen to the radio at home only in work”.

•“Normal radios are fine”.

5. What ideas do you think would be good to eco-power a radio? Please provide your answer below:

13 people

2 people

3 people

• I have produced a series of questions to ask the public, selecting a random 20 members. Collecting their results enables me to produce my product to consumer demand.

• It also enables me to look closely what people may think towards the idea.

• The results show how the higher percentage of the population possess a radio of some form of description.

• The results show that people place radios mainly in the kitchen area. Some people did comment that they place their radios around windows and counters within exposed sunlight of their kitchen also.

• The results show how people like the proposal of a new, eco-friendly design.

• The results show how people would like solar power as a provider. This means this is how my radio shall be powered to achieve my objective.

• An interesting point one person raised who marked ‘both’ said: “Wind up as long as it lasted for a while. Solar powered in the garden for summer “. Perhaps my idea can inherit numerous eco-friendly sources of power, however the technology may be to complex to bring in too many ideas; this will be focused during my development of ideas.


Solar Power:• Solar power was the winning decision in which the public would like to see. Of course, existing radios

possess forms of technology with solar power units, but they do not look very appealing, nor modern styled as shown in some examples.

• They look to be manually wired in the top design, with its individual component, where the other design looks compact with the panels, it looks outdated.

• Sunlight is the key contributing factor to powering solar power. Focusing on the physical side of the matter, sunlight on average arrives at a 45 degree angle during the hot seasons of the year, where ate a lower angle during the cooler, winter period.

• As shown in the diagram, the earth is hotter and cooler at different times. This is due to the earths rotation around the sun, thus impacting sunlight's direction of travel and the heat impacted from that angle, (hot from the higher angle then a lower angle).

• This research is interesting towards my design; for the angle of the solar panel, perhaps the panel could be hidden and appear when attracting sunlight, and also, be set on an angled bar to rotate directly at the suns rays, as shown on the diagram:

• Solar power can also encourage other forms of eco power to collide; this radio has both solar and wind up technology. This a perfect demonstration of an eco powered radio. This could be an angle for designing ideas, as some of the public did comment on wind up technology:

• Solar panels are made from monocrystalline silicon wafer, (containing solar cells that collect sunlight):


Solar Powered Radios:•This type of radio has been manufactured, however a long time ago when older radio designs where popular. Below I have researched existing models of forms of radios within this category, with annotations also included:

• Here is a radio that has a foldable solar power unit as well as a hand wind up mechanism when the weather isn't sunny. This is a clever idea as it addresses all necessary conditions, faults however result in the products look; not a very attractive design

• This radio has both FM reception and DAB; the OLED shows song names, artists and words as shown in the image. This design is nice, clean simple; a good design. Note that more than one type of broadcast can be interpreted, but not Wi-Fi as this requires mains power; solar power can provide limited energy.

• The popular hand held radio invented by Trevor Baylis is a well known design being idea for portability, easy of use and simplicity. It can be solar powered also, however it is analogue based like the old designs.

• This unique, surreal design is very solar powered specific, with its adjustable panels enabling the user to angle them to the specific angle of the sunlight travelling. Looking closely at the design, it features very minimal operations and a OLED, which is small. This is useful as it shows that certain shapes obtain great ideas and looks.

• These designs like the first perform well in terms of eco-friendly power, however they are bulky and poorly presented. This is a good working point; the radios already possess the functions, (which won on the questionnaires), a good idea would be to turn the look of the radio into something aesthetically pleasing to all.

• Clean, simple and easy to use; this radio is a perfect example of what I aim to produce, however it looks very simple in terms of look. What's also interesting is how the radio is sold in numerous designs, (this also looked in more critical detail earlier in my research). Colour interchangeable parts in terms of the outer design maybe an interesting design issue to play with.


Manufacturing techniques and materials involved:•Manufacturing the radio itself takes careful consideration; what materials are used, why use them, what technic is best for that method and is it the most cost efficient method? From looking at numerous radios and disassembling 2 existing radios I have learnt allot about manufacturing and materials. Here is my conclusion for making my radio:

• Looking at the 7 types of plastic groups, I have learnt what each one contributes towards, however both radios I have looked at use ABS, (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) which would fall into number 7, OTHER, known as “Mixed Plastics”.

• Reflecting on my radios also exposed critical parts that clearly showed how both radios where made; injecting moulding. The parts being bosses and ribs, which would be IM, also including the ejected points in which the machinery ‘pushes’ the parts away once made.

Injection moulding and its methods:

1. The process begins when a “short shot” of thermoplastic is injected into the mould, partially filling it with a predetermined amount of resin.

2. Using either a nozzle or gas pins, nitrogen is injected into the centre of the hot resin, following the path of least resistance it forms hollow channels and directs the resin to the last area of the mould to fill.

3. As the gas expands in the cavity, forcing the plastic in front of it, all of the surfaces receive an equal pressure creating an even “pack out” of the part. This brings the following benefits: shortened cooling cycle, elimination of sink marks and improved dimensional stability.


Branding my product:• Its always important to label designs when marketing them. Names of products gain customer recognition, loyalty, preference, trust and overall customer satisfaction, upon that brand

being successful. Existing markets such as Pure, PHILLIPS, PANASONIC and SONY have established themselves as electrical suppliers, PURE being very successful for its designs in particular. I have designed my own personal label which establishes key parts of my design.

• All of these designs share a similar element; the logo designs look plain, original and designed with simple text, which from personal appearance implies simple ideas; I have looked to produce my design as shown in the form of the 3rd dimension with bold, powerful text:

• Solid text with curves in the lettering for effect

• Reflection from the text to imply a futuristic design


Concept Development - sheet 1/4:

• The ideas with a red box indicate the selected idea for development.


Design Proposals - 1/6:


Matrix Evaluation:

Design Proposals Ease of use Portability Versatility Sustainability Ethical Popularity Total

1. ++ + + ++ ++ ++ 10

2. + o o + + + 4

3. + o + + + + 5

4. ++ o o + ++ ++ 7

5. ++ ++ + + ++ + 9

6. ++ + o + ++ + 7

• Upon reflecting on my designs, I have selected one concept to take further into production, idea 1. From this stage the design will be taken further into account in terms of the look, the assembly and a CAD of the model to shop its technical look as well as an in-situ to reflect the products qualities.

• To finalise the product I will first look at the proposal look and how it can be improved.

• From all of my research I already know the materials and manufacturing methods that the product would undertake, it now faces a more elaborate assembly method and alterations to its look and design.


Initial Modelling:

•Whilst developing ideas I had built a model representing idea 3. The reason for doing so was because Initially I was very taken personally to this product proposal, however reflecting back to my brief the key element wasn’t to ensure it can ‘Hold’ a phone, any radio can do this as shown in the example image.

•At this point I realised how I needed to change my outlook by reflecting back to the briefs direction of producing an eco-friendly radio.

• Here I have identified a accurate sketch plan of the radio, and how it will look through broad design.

• Here I have produced a CAD design of my product; it is shown in two different designs to illustrate how it will look when different interfaces are applied. From this stage I will look to produce a series of measurements, identifying each part and producing a final in-suite situation in which this CAD design will be illustrated within.

Detailed embodiment design: • This page looks at how the selected product has been taken that extra step further into more critical detail. It looks at closer detail on the radio, the final look and a broad plan.


User Centred Design (UCD):

•Looking further into my detailed design I have looked at how the product will be constructed through a brief exploded plan. It enables me to study each part, knowing how and what that particular parts purpose is.•I have produced a model which enables me to demonstrate the product in use, from lifting the radio, rotating the handle or tuning the stations/volume.


Detailed in-suite CAD - Final:

• Clean look to the interface, designed to be user friendly.

• Rotational handle alike Trevor Baylis’ hand held radio; for when sunlight isn't visible.

• Solar powered to capture suns rays; additional means of powering with a modern design look.

Detailed in-suite CAD - Final:

Story Board:



General Arrangement Drawing:

Notes…..

General Arrangement Drawing:

Exploded view:


Item Number Title of Part Material Quantity

1 Front cover ABS 1

2 Front frame ABS 1

3 Handle ABS 1

4 Handle Arm ABS 1

5 Handle attachment ABS 1

6 Cover Frame Aluminium 1

7 Bar Aluminium 1

8 Back frame ABS 1

9 Back frame ABS 1

10 Solar PanelMonocrystalline

Silicon Wafer1

11 Ariel Aluminium 1

12 Screws Steel 12

13OLED (Electrical

compounds)OLED 1

14 Speakers ABS 2

15 Central Frame ABS 1

16 Base pads Rubber 4

17 Dials & Buttons Aluminium 6

B.O.M:

• NOTE: Inside of the central frame (15), Is the location of electrical components, circuitry and powering, (as learnt from past research).

Task Analysis:•A Task Analysis will enable me to identify the key issues relating to the product in more critical detail then my previous understanding of factors and influences research. At the end of the project I will produce the same task analysis to see how my product performs in all areas.

Radio Ergonomics

User interface

Performance

Assembly

• Its important to remember what tactile qualities selected materials feature, (sense of touch, how good it feels).

Aesthetics

Finish

Build Quality

Function

Materials

• The combination of materials should be assembled in a distinctive formation. This involves strong materials like plastics and woods, learning their properties.

• Concern for the environment when selecting my materials; concerns of the impact to acquire them for example; in this case sourcing reusable materials is an advisable method.

• Its important to reflect the over performance of that materials; its finish, how it feels, looks and reflects impact upon the consumer. The radio must have a good finishing.

• The radio must function easily and safely. This can be achieved with ensuring its well designed and tested by the BSI.

• It must be eco friendly. This can be achieved through its power source, sourcing reusable materials and building the design from fewer parts as possible.

• Anthropometrical studies will enable me to look closely at what measurements are needed for my radios development; size of buttons for example.

• Not just human sizes, but also the design itself; it mustn't be too large or small, but well suited for the user to operate.

• Manufacturers declarations, or user requirements, will declare what exactly is expected from the outcome; it must play music, it must look good and stand out from other designs with its USP.

• The USP alone is important; for the radio to be eco friendly, it must be sourced from all possible methods of accomplishing this, (in-depth research).

• The user of the product must find the interface easy to use, not too many dials or operational points and comforting, (the relationship between the user and the product, how it personally feels).

• A simple design should be implied to the designs; nice colours, textures, materials, shapes, forms and overall presentation.

• The overall design has to withstand use from the user; sometimes in certain environments the product is placed in events can occur such as water spilling or the radio falling from a ledge. The assembly of the product must be well organised.

• Alike build quality, however assembly concentrates on how practically this product will be held together. Bosses for example are a practical method of accomplishing this.

• Assembly looks also at the manufacturing technics in which it will undertake; how will the product actually be made? Injection moulding for example to make the parts within industry.

• The finish of the product depends on the material; woods usually interact with veneers or plastics with a polishing form.

• Depending on the finish, it must be safe; none-toxic or dangerous in any form.

• Size, Colour, Style and Texture; my product must perform well in all of these critical fields. Size ensures the product is a suitable proportion for both the product itself and the user. The product should be graphical, look nice and stand out well in any environment. The style should be up-to-date, not too old dated nor too futuristic, however the product is to ensure it isn't outdated within the next 10-20 years at least. Texture of the material; is it leather, wood, plastic, or something else? It must feel comfortable to hold and use, no sharp edges or hazards.


Components

Sustainability

PackagingManufacturing

SafetyCost

Maintenance

Similar Products

Reliability

Radio

• Reliability can be given from the product if user tested through UCD methodologies, these being user trails, insights, interviews and other user approaches.

• Reliability concerns user trust within a design; the brand and design must be user friendly.

• BS tested; this ensures the product would be ideal for marketing.

• All materials and components must be sustainable. Materials, packaging and resources are well researched to ensure they are reliable.

• General H&S specifications and standards; labels and warning on certain parts so the user is identified.

• Products feature labels which signify issues that help the manufacturer to inform the consumer of the safety and maintenance precautions. My radio should be easy to repair if problems occur. If parts do damage or get wet, the product should be easy to dissemble and repair/interchange for a new part.

• The product must serve a quality life span; this can be achieved with careful considerations such as cleaning the radio regally with a dry cloth or duster.

• The environment, the economy and the social system all relate to a system that can be maintained in a healthy state indefinitely. These terms relate to the general sustainability within the sustainability process. The product should be mass manufactured as opposed to batch to save cost, time and energy.

• Materials should be locally sourced if possible to reduce carbon footprint impact. Obtaining these materials naturally is damaging to the environment and its resources; Mining metal ores and plastics coming from oil, both unsustainable if constantly revisited.

• Recycling is key to this product; obtaining recycled plastics, woods or metals to make this product whatever it looks like. However, it costs a lot to recycle materials, but being more friendly. Its difficult to decide, recycling materials or purchasing them from suppliers in which they are freshly harvested; both methods feature the good yet the bad points.

• The economic system of sustainability exclusively focuses upon the total transportation audit, which is an examination of financial records. This means how the product is distributed to the market. Shipped by ISO containers however it would be transported by lorries; this process should be cost effective through mass manufacturing.

• My radio mustn't harm people, offend or insult in any way otherwise issues would rise causing public awareness and protest. No misused labels, colours or imagery should otherwise be used throughout the product.

• Kept to a minimum in all sustainable, manufacturing and material areas. The cheaper the cost the more profit will gain.

• JIT (just in time) manufacturing is one approach that will save a lot of money; upon ordering materials as of when they are needed, reducing storage.

• Boxed and easy to open by the user; the product would be fully assembled and ready for use.

• Clear imagery and logo branding the interior product, saying what it is.

• Injection moulded, blow moulded, rotational moulding, etc. At this point its difficult to know how to manufacture my design, however I will look into existing designs to learn their manufacturing technics.

• Some parts can be interchangeable, these being outer designs perhaps so the consumer has a different look each time. Not just interchangeable parts, but perhaps upgrading the system also for better performance factors perhaps?

• Servicing the radio would involve quality checked; on products a small golden label can be found to show it has been checked by an institute. A check up usually means to ensure the part still works, operating and fully functions.

• User tested and evaluated by an institute such as the ISO (international standards organisation) that issue a certificate to organisations that meet British standard regulations. If BSI certified my product fro example it would be classified as safe for purpose and use.

• Labels and warning signs are a good demonstration for user care: “WARNING: KEEP AWAY FROM WATER BASED SURFACES” for example; the consumer must be kept in mind.

• All existing radios possess some form of consumer interest that makes them work well together; each product has a USP, (unique selling point) that issues that product. Mine being eco friendly should appeal to a lot of users potentially that is if it looks good.
