DT A level Product Design

Calum Dewane Bayford

Centre number: 10254Candidate number: 2424

Context and TaskContext: The price for property is increasing rapidly, this makes it hard for students to have space to live and study. Where ever a student is living like their parents house, a small flat or a dorm all these spaces have little space. This has made a new trend that is that multifunctional living spaces are modern and stylish. This can benefit the occasional table and allow it to be multifunctional as well as occasional.

Task: Habitat a successful major retailer have commissioned me to sell an occasional table marketed at students in their stores. Students face to problems, these are space and money. Students are limited by both these factors. I want to create a product that is good quality relatively cheap and is small in size. I have been influenced by Terrence Conran and Issac Krady. These designers have helped me look at multifunctional furniture and popular materials used.

Context and Task

Above is my re written context and task, to the left I have pulled apart the original context and task into a brain storm. This has helped me structure my rewritten context and task. Rewriting this I have planned what else I will include in my research and planning. I will include:• Designer research • Customer profile • Target market inspiration• Product analysis ACCESSFM• Primary research • Analysis and specification• Habitat research• Occasional table mood board• Multifunctional rooms mood

board• Ergonomics and

anthropometrics

Context: Our lifestyles are changing rapidly. It is now fashionable to have multifunctional living spaces. We now look for items of furniture that are individual and original as well as

being made of high quality.

Task: A major retailer wishes to market, a modern style, and small occasional table. The product should include some storage space, and be influenced by a designer or artist. You

can use the work of the designer you studied In the summer assignment.

Moving, acting, or occurring with great speed

Conforming to the current style; stylish

Belonging to the present time

The way in which something is said, done, expressed, or performed

having or able to perform many functionsspace sought for occupation by a nation whose population is expanding

Preceding all others in time; first

the quality of being superiorAn inherent or distinguishing characteristic

Of or relating to recent times or the present

The way in which something is said, done, expressed, or performed Occurring from time to time

The sale of goods or commodities in small quantities directly to consumers

the area in any structure that provides space for storage

Not for everyday use should be appealing to the eye and easily kept aside if not being used

Need to make sure the table can fit well without taking up space when not being used

Ides must be original and appeal to the selected audience and fit in to its surroundings

Must have good storage depth and size is determined on who is using the table and where the table is.

Office- small objects like pens pencils paper etc

Home should have a reasonably sized space for the average size table object

A power affecting a person, thing, or course of events, especially one that operates without any direct or apparent effort

Must find an artist that inspires me

Whos the audienceWhos my designerWho is my table forWhere will my table be used What will my table be used for?

Context and task analysis

Designer Research

Issac Krady designer of the tre table

The tre table is a multifunctional table, it can be used as a coffee table or a laptop table It was designed by Issac Krady. The reason this table inspires me is because it is one continuous flow of hard wood with no seems or breaks. The table can stand horizontally or Vertically and looks effective both ways. The function of this table is to look aesthetically pleasing as well as be sturdy and able to balance weight when used either vertically or horizontally. I would like to create my table to have two uses like the Tre table and also to be able to fold away or not take up a large amount of space.

I like the way the wood is steam bended to create a smooth elegant shape that look good as a laptop table or a coffee table. The materials he has used are good quality and are appropriate for the function of his table, I need to make sure my product meets all these standards for it to be successful.

Terence Conran Balance alcove shelves

Terrence Conran designed the Balance Alcove Shelves. They are made of hard wood and come in oak, walnut, white and black colours. I like the way the shelves are placed to create the illusion they are balancing on top of each other. I would like to incorporate a structure into my table like the structure used by Terrence Conran. I want to create a product that is different to other tables on the market like The Alcove shelves.

Terrance conran is an English designer born in born 4 October 1931. He is known for designing for Habitat stores. He also invested over 50million into the British design Museum which shows his passion in design

Oak coffee table by Terrence Conran

Habitat green coffee table designed by conran for Habitat

Why are these artists relevant to my project?

I like the way both these artists have made their furniture so versatile and that they can be placed different ways up and still have a function. I also like the way both products are diverse and are still both aesthetically pleasing. Both products are made of hard wood and are good quality. They both also do their function to a high standard. I would like to create a product that is made of good materials meet the function and look good where ever it is placed.

I can use this information I have gathered to help me create an aesthetically pleasing product as well as doing its function to a high standard, I will also use good materials to help me create my product.

Customer profile target market design inspiration and room

I Think habitat are an appropriate shop to sell my product as they are a modern stylish store with a wide range of products unique to the shop. I am also attracted to habitat as they have a versatile section which is perfect for a multifunction product.Students rooms are generally small nowadays weather it be a dorm or at home with their parents. The product I want to design will be small and efficient it will carry out its function and be multifunctional.

Who’s my customer?My product is aimed at a student preferably students in university or a form of higher education. I have decided to choose this audience as my product will be small and multifunctional. Students do not have allot of space weather they are at a dorm in a university or at home, Their space is limited. The goal of my product is to allow students to occasionally use the product for different things and it not demand space.

Aesthetics and materialsThe product must look modern stylish and use space well. The table should either be made out of wood or plastic. Metal is expensive and students are limited to the amount they can spend.

Customer profile

Students will most probably use online services allot as it is quick and easy. Websites such as amazon. This is a problem as students do not visit habitat however parents in their 30+ most probably do. To make the product successful I will market the product to parents for their child. Adults this age generally have more money then a student so the materials used can be better increasing the retail price. This will also increase the quality of the product.

The table will need to have available storage space for the students books papers and other equipment. The tables surface will also have to be big enough to hold a laptop.

This is a picture of a students room researching rooms I found that nearly all rooms had a desk, desk chair or both. This means that desks are a vital part of a teenagers room and have a desk chair is also popular. I can try and incorporate this information into my table.

I am inspired by the Tre table as it is such a simple design however carry's out its function very well while being Aesthetically pleasing. The table is also made out of plywood which is durable and cheaper then hard wood. The table is also lined with hard wood veneers which makes the table environmentally friendly. I would like to use veneers on my product as it has to be cheap for students to be able to afford however it also has to be durable.

Researching desks I have found that wood is very popular however I want to give my table a modern stylish feel and may use white veneers or white/coloured plastic I also want my table to be a unique shape and style.

Target audience

Target audiencePicture Mood board

Where Customer profile

My target market are 16-24 year olds that live in limited multifunctional space. They are modern and slick and are up to date with technology. They are social and fun and may live with friends. They are active and have a busy schedule.

The main audience live in built up urban areas and cities there house would be in housing estates and blocks.

active

technology

fun

Adventurous

young

study

party

work

learn

Product analysis Access FM The TRE Table Issac Krady

Aesthetics: The tre table is one flowing sheet of plywood I like the follow of the wood and how there are no splits or breaks the table is all one sheet. The use of plywood is more economically friendly then the use of hard wood which makes the table sustainable.

Cost: The table retails for $90 dollars or £56.36 British pounds. This is a reasonable price and the us of plywood keeps this table affordable. Customer: The customer this product is

aimed at is a young adult who likes modern furniture. The audience may also have a limit on space and require this multifunctional design. The product comes in wood and white The white for more of a stylish modern customers. The wood for more of a natural outdoors look. The customer might also be drawn to this product as it is more environmentally friendly then a hardwood table.

Environment: This product is more beneficial to the environment as it is not hard wood rather a plywood with a dark wood veneer finish. This is better for the environment therefore the designer must have had this in mind.

Safety: The table is sturdy and strong is has no sharp corners when used as a coffee table and would be safe around children. When used as a laptop table the structure is

supported and will not fall or snap.

Size: The table itself is small and would not stand tall when stood up a laptop fits perfectly on the top when stood up. The table is relatively small.

Function: The function of this product is to be a multifunctional table as a coffee table and a laptop table. When stood the table holds a laptop and allows legroom. When laid down the table has a dip allowing the customer to fit books in it while there being a flat are to put objects.

Material: The material used is plywood with a hard wood veneer on both sides to make the product aesthetically pleasing.

From this research I have found that using veneers is good as it makes the product environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing. Also to make my product an appropriate size for the room I am placing it as well as for what it is holding. However my table must be occasional whereas this table is permanent. My table being occasional may need to be able to collapse easily or be able to be stored well.

I am going to interview my cousin and see if his answers can benefit my product and allow me to understand more about that age range. I am also going to visit Habitat and take pictures of existing furniture.

What do I want to discover

Methodology Subjects or participants

How am I going to be able to gain access to these groups or individuals?

What are my biases about this topic?

How can I make sure my biases are not reflected in my research?

What do I expect to discover?

When did I do this?

What are the requirements of a table for a student.

Survey at a university

Family Member (Cousin)

Arrange to meet my cousin and ask him questions.

Issue on space and price needs to not use allot of space and be relatively cheap.

Asking specific questions that will help with designing and price.

I expect to discover that I need a product that has space for storage and space to hold things like laptops and other equipment.

--

What are the requirements of a table for a student.

Primary research at a Habitat

Me Go to the store and take pictures

Issue on space and price needs to not use allot of space and be relatively cheap.

Take pictures of tables that are small and cheap however do there function well.

Small multifunctional tables a range of different colours and materials

--

Primary research planning

Analysis Overall Analysis:I have done primary and secondary research to help me design ideas for my project. I have researched into some artists that have done work that I can build inspiration from and traits that I might consider using in my own table. I visited two different shops for my primary research one of the shops being habitat which on of the artists I have researched into designs for the shop. I thought this was relevant and wanted to visit to the shop to see some of the furniture and take photos and measurements from similar products to give me an idea of how I want my product to look. I also visited Heals which also has a furniture department similar to Habitat. Whilst looking in these shops I took pictures of products I liked that were similar to what I am going to make for my table. I took measurements of these objects and felt the wait and what materials where used to make them. All this information would be key to helping me create design ideas. I have also focused on my target audience and have researched into what their needs are and what would appeal to them so that I can incorporate this into my table.

Customer ProfileFrom my customer profile I learnt that I will have to create a product that appeals to them and to also keep the table unisex to appeal to both genders of the target audience age range. My customer is teenagers and young adults therefore I will be using my older cousin and the people in my class to help with my table so I know that it appeals to everyone. Shop Research For my primary shop research I have visited two shops and taken photos to show as evidence of this and to also use as inspiration when thinking up ideas for my table. The shop research was very useful as it allowed me to get a sense of size for my product and also a sense of materials that I could use that look atheistically good and would fit the function of my table. Designer case studyFor my designer case study I used the internet to research artists, I found Terrance Conran and Issac Krday. I chose these designers as I found their work interesting and creative. I can use the research I did on these artists to inspire me when designing my table, doing this research has also helped me understand what materials are good to use and what they look affective on.

Analysis

Specification

Specification of my project: Aesthetics and functionality : My product must appeal to the target audience which is teen agers and young adults therefore my product will need to be sleek and modern to refer to I have asked my cousin to look at photos of my work throughout the manufacturing process to give me ideas oto make the product appeal to my audience. He has already recommended a sleek modern table with unnoticeable seems with a draw with enough draws space for books mobiles phones keys and other objects found next to a bed or that have come out my customers pocket.

Cost: My product must be affordable to the target audience. My target audience will either be in education or have a part time or full time job. The price range here is broad as the customers that have jobs will have more money then those who still attended full time education therefore I have decided to make sure my table is affordable and not to expensive. However I want to use materials that will last and be durable so that the product is worth the money.

Customer: My customer is young adults that are in education or have left education and are starting to work, The customer will have the product for occasional use and be able to have it in a multifunctional room with out it getting in the way. The customer will want draw space to fit every day objects such as keys phones change or a wallet and other items found next to a bed. The table must be easily mobile so that it can be moved easily and connected to make the coffee table. The table also has to be unisex to appeal to both male and female customers I will make sure my product appeals to both genders by asking people in my class.

Environment: My product is for a room with limited space such as student accommodation, small flats or a room. The table must be able to take up as little space as possible as some customers will have reduced space. For this I will research into sizing of my table to make sure it is not bigger then it should be and therefore would take up unnecessary space. The environment its self is also benefited as I am using plywood which is a man made composite material which can be recycled and is made from recycled wood.

Safety: My product will be made from plywood and be constructed with either adhesives nails screws or metal rods. To ensure safety I will make sure no screws or nails protrude the surface and that there is no risk of the rods ripping through the material and possibly hurting the customer. I will also sand down all my edges on my table to make sure they are not to sharp.

Size: size is key in my product and I have considered that my target audience may have limited space for the product and that it also may need to be stored. I will study the sizing of my product in detail and make sure it is not bigger than it has to be to perform it function.

Function: The function of my product is to be an occasional table with multifunctional properties that also have storage in the form of a draw. My table will need to be within the size of an average coffee table and within the size of an average bedside table which I will consider in my research.

Materials: The materials I will use for my table is plywood. I will use this man made composite as it is cheaper then alternative woods such as Oak or Mahogany however has good properties and can be finished with a veneer if needed. It will also be easy to laminate to get the required thickness I need for my table and these laminations will be unnoticeable due to the exposed lamination on the sides of the plywood.

Habitat and Heals

primary research

primary research

Through my primary research I have found that it is very popular to have tables that have removable lids and storage inside. Some where simple round tables with a plastic or wood lid that can be removed and inside would be storage. This relates to my research well as it is diverse and occasional. This design is very simple to manufacture and offers good storage.

PRIMARY RESEARCH

Another very popular design was the three tables that slid underneath one another and could be placed in the corner of a room when not being used. Both shops had loads of different colours materials designs and shapes of these tables which shows that they are very popular. I should try to incorporate the idea that the product can slid underneath one another as it is popular.

Another shape I noticed while walking through the shop was the squares that came to about knees height or shorter. In habitat they sell are selling square stools that are made of fabric. They come in various colours however do not have any storage. I found a wooden box in heals that did have storage but was not a stool.

I want to create a product that can be a stool and a table. The product will be a little over knee height, It will be a square shape and allow storage. The product will have a lid that can be flipped from a padded cushion to a hard flat wood to be used as a table. The product will be able to be pushed together to make a bigger table and can also be stacked for storage. The product can be used as seats or a table, The outside of the product will be able to be modified by the customer, The sides of the square will have strips that can have fabric and other materials stuck to it. This makes the product diverse and fun for the young target audience. This product is completely customisable and can be stored easily.

The Price varied from high to low in both shops however was reasonably affordable and good quality. The two shops clearly sell high quality affordable products unlike ikea that sells cheap products that are flat pack and assembled by hand.

Occasional tablesOccasional tables

I chose these images as I like the fluidity of the table. All images have been bended and flow with out any joints or splits.

I like the image of the three blocks of wood as it appears they are floating. I want to create a balance illusion with my product. I also like wood work so this was an appropriate image to add.

I chose this image as I like the creativity and simplicity of the image. It is a cleaver multifunctional product that can be stored easily and can be constructed easily.

Multifunctional rooms

I have gathered some images of multifunctional rooms that could have my table init. The rooms are all relatively small and have one function such as a living room or a bedroom however my table will suit a multifunctional room as well as this style of room.

QUALITY CONTROLI will need to make a jig to allow the

wood to be cut on the table saw. Because of the size of the wood and the length it will have to be slowly pushed through the saw and could fall or slip therefore a jig will be needed to help

cut the wood.

Plan of makingI have decided to use plywood to make my table. I have decided on this as it is relatively cheaper then hard woods such as Oak and Mahogany and still holds good properties such as strength and durability. Plywood can also easily be laminated so that I can control the thickness of the wood easily without it being noticeable when it is finished. Plywood can also have veneers laminated onto it as well as be painted stained and varnished, therefore I have a wide range of finishing techniques that I can choose from. I can also easily sand down plywood to give it a nice smooth finish which is also another benefit when looking at the athsetetics at the finishing process of making the table.

Step 1 First I will sand my wood down and get rid of any ruff edges and ruff surfaces that it may have, I can then also choose a side that has no defects such as knots and splits to make sure the table looks good.

Step 3 Next I will mark out my wood ready for it to be cut. The wood will be cut using a table saw to give it a smooth cut. The table saw will need to be used as the wood its self comes in a big sheet and will need to be cut using a powerful saw.

Step 4 The jig will then be made and The wood will be cut into the lengths needed to make my table. Once the wood is cut I can begin to attach the wood using adhesive nails and wood screws.

Step 2 I will then laminate my wood to get the desired lengths I am going to need making sure I do not waste any wood on laminating areas that I will not be cut on the table saw for the main parts of the table.

Step 5 Once the wood is attached I can then sand down the sides to make sure it is even and smooth. I will only be able to attach the bottom and the middle sections of the table until the draw is attached to the top piece so that it is easier to work with.

Step 6 I will then fill the counter sunk holes that are made from screwing the pieces together and I will remove any adhesive that may be on the surface. I can then mill out the draw ready to be attached to the top pieces of the table.

Step 7 I can then attach my draw runners to the top piece of the table and to the draw itself that I have milled out using the milling machine. I will attach the draw runners using screws and adhesive if necessary.

Step 8 Once the draw is fitted I can attach the top piece of the table using the same method I used to attach the bottom and middle. Once it is attached I can sand down the table ready for the finishing processes.

Step 9 To finish the table I will use varnish and stain to make the table athletically pleasing to the customer. Once this is complete I can test and evaluate my product.

QUALITY CONTROLBefore cutting I will

make sure that I have marked out correctly so the cuts are perfect.

QUALITY CONTROL

I will make sure the screws are not protruding the other side

Analysing my target market and models

The table is made

from plywood which is

strong and durable this is

appropriate for the students

as they will not need

to buy another table.

Students have limited money to spend therefore making a product with multifunctional features will draw in more customers and allow the product to be more successful. Students will be more likely to spend money on furniture with multifunctional use then a piece of furniture with only one use.

Students like to sit with friends or room mates around a coffee table and talk as they are around friends a lot they are being social. A coffee table with a multifunctional use would appeal to the audience.

I have made a model out of board and used the laser cutter to cut the model out precisely. I noticed with this design that I would not be able to make the leaning effect with the angle and shape and will have to add an extra leg for support running parallel with the top of the table . Adding the extra leg will allow the table to be stable and not topple over and rely on leaning for support.

The extra leg on the table allows extra stability and will support the draw that will slide underneath the top of the table

The Models above all have a draw cut out this was my old idea I have now decided to have a slim line draw made inside the plywood itself. I have decided this as it will make the table look more sleek and modern

After testing both tables I decided to use the extra leg at the bottom and have my table in a ‘Z’ shape as it will support the table more and will be easier to balance. It will also not need a wall behind it to lean on.

I can use my class and my cousin to allow me to make sure the table appeals to the audience I am making it for. This will allow me to decided ideas with influence from the target audience.

Ergonomics and anthropometrics What is ergonomics?Wikipedia definition: study of workplace design: the study of how a workplace and the equipment used there can best be designed for comfort, efficiency, safety, and productivity

Ergonomics is when a designer design a product with the customer in mind, for their comfort safety efficiency and the productivity. For example if the designer is designing some earphones they will have to consider the ergonomics of the product to appeal to humans.

What is Anthropometrics?Wikipedia definition: the measurement of the human individual. An early tool of physical anthropology, it has been used for identification, for the purposes of understanding human physical variation, in palaeoanthropology and in various attempts to correlate physical with racial and psychological traits.

Anthropometrics is when information on the “average human” is collected as the 95%. Therefore a designer will use this information to try and appeal to the 95% of customers. For example if a designer wanted to invent a pen they would have to take everyone into consideration this is where Anthropometrics is used.

Average height on a bed side table is 24"-28“ in heighthttp://www.houzz.com/discussions/24876/How-tall-should-a-nightstand-be-in-relation-Average height and weight of a 20year old male Height-5'9 , weight-145 to 150 pounds

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_average_height_and_weight_for_a_20_year-old-male#slide2

The average height of a common coffee table is16-18 incheshttp://wiki.answers.com/Q/Standard_coffee_table_height#slide2

The average height from floor to the top of a mattress. 18”http://www.ehow.com/info_7975967_mattress-height-floor.html

I have researched some Anthropometrics that will help me with my product. This information was all sauced of off the internet.

Above I have gathered some useful information to help me construct my table to appeal to the 95%. Some problems I have come across are that beds are all different shapes sizes and heights however I found the average bedside table size that will appeal to the majority of beds. My table is targeted at students aged 16-24 male and female.

All of the data I have used is backed and is accurate even though it may come of a website that may also have unreliable sources. I have had to use these websites as there are no others I could find.

Relevant information to help with my table

Average height on a bed side table is 24"-28“ in heighthttp://www.houzz.com/discussions/24876/How-tall-should-a-nightstand-be-in-relation-Average height and weight of a 20year old male Height-5'9 , weight-145 to 150 pounds

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_average_height_and_weight_for_a_20_year-old-male#slide2

The average height of a common coffee table is16-18 incheshttp://wiki.answers.com/Q/Standard_coffee_table_height#slide2

The average height from floor to the top of a mattress. 18”http://www.ehow.com/info_7975967_mattress-height-floor.html

I have researched some Anthropometrics that will help me with my product. This information was all sauced of off the internet.

Above I have gathered some useful information to help me construct my table to appeal to the 95%. Some problems I have come across are that beds are all different shapes sizes and heights however I found the average bedside table size that will appeal to the majority of beds. My table is targeted at students aged 16-24 male and female.

Table handle

My tables will have two draws that will allow the you to store things in. I want to apply a push to open door hinge to give the table a sleek design that will appeal to the audience. I think the push to open mechanism will appeal more to a young audience then an older audience however everyone will like it as you can not see it as suppose to a handle which people will have an opinion on.

My table will need a handle on the draw, I have researched some potential handles I could use on the draw.

All of these handles are modern and sleek and would go well with the design. What I found was that metal handles are very popular on wood and that they compliment each other well. I had other ideas to use a cut out in the wood to act as a handle for the customer. I then though to use a draw that has no handle and a push to open hinge. This makes the table sophisticated and stylish and highly appeals to the audience.

All of the data I have used is backed and is accurate even though it may come of a website that may also have unreliable sources. I have had to use these websites as there are no others I could find.

I want my table to reach to the level of the mattress. Beds are all different heights so the table may not reach the mattress or may be above the planned height.

On Google the average height of a bed side table was 24"-28” however this is taller than the average height of a coffee table. Coffee tables are traditionally low to the floor and bed side tables are traditionally the same height of a bed. I found on E how that the most common height from the floor to the top of a mattress is 18”. This works perfectly as I found that a common height of a coffee table is 16-18 inches off the floor. I will make my table slightly taller than this so the customer does not have to reach down to the coffee table at night.

The table needs to also be a good size when used as a coffee table with a sofa. The average height of a sofa from floor to the top of the seat is generally 18” The same as a bed. This size is just under the average height of a bed side table. I will make my table in-between these heights.

The height of the table will be 22” 560 mm

I have chose for my table to be 22” because this is 2” down from the average bed side table height and 2” above the average bed and sofa height. It is also 2-4” bigger then the average coffee table.

The top of my table will be 16”x16” 406mm 435mm

Sizing and table informationWhat is ergonomics?Wikipedia definition: study of workplace design: the study of how a workplace and the equipment used there can best be designed for comfort, efficiency, safety, and productivity

Ergonomics is when a designer design a product with the customer in mind, for their comfort safety efficiency and the productivity. For example if the designer is designing some earphones they will have to consider the ergonomics of the product to appeal to humans.

What is Anthropometrics?Wikipedia definition: the measurement of the human individual. An early tool of physical anthropology, it has been used for identification, for the purposes of understanding human physical variation, in palaeoanthropology and in various attempts to correlate physical with racial and psychological traits.

Anthropometrics is when information on the “average human” is collected as the 95%. Therefore a designer will use this information to try and appeal to the 95% of customers. For example if a designer wanted to invent a pen they would have to take everyone into consideration this is where Anthropometrics is used.

Average height on a bed side table is 24"-28“ in heighthttp://www.houzz.com/discussions/24876/How-tall-should-a-nightstand-be-in-relation-Average height and weight of a 20year old male Height-5'9 , weight-145 to 150 pounds

http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_average_height_and_weight_for_a_20_year-old-male#slide2

The average height of a common coffee table is16-18 incheshttp://wiki.answers.com/Q/Standard_coffee_table_height#slide2

The average height from floor to the top of a mattress. 18”http://www.ehow.com/info_7975967_mattress-height-floor.html

I have researched some Anthropometrics that will help me with my product. This information was all sauced of off the internet.

Above I have gathered some useful information to help me construct my table to appeal to the 95%. Some problems I have come across are that beds are all different shapes sizes and heights however I found the average bedside table size that will appeal to the majority of beds. My table is targeted at students aged 16-24 male and female.

Why is this table appropriate to my Target audience?My table is appropriate as people this age generally still live at home or with friends, because the table can become two bedside tables two people can use the bedside table weather it either side of a double bed or in separate rooms. The age I have chosen do not have allot of money and will probably have friends over allot of the time as supposed to going out and having to spend money. This makes the function of turning the two tables into one coffee table very appropriate as the table can be clipped together and used around chair to socialised etc. A key role in success of a product is if it has a USP (unique selling point) My unique selling point is that the table is multifunctional and turns from a bedside table to a coffee table.

Materials I have done research into what materials I can use on my table bellow I have had to consider the function and aesthetic he product and what material will benefit the product the most.

Material Advantages Disadvantages Is it appropriate ?

Plywood Plywood is a strong and durable wood consisting of right angle layered wood interlocking the structure making it very strong. Plywood is cheaper than a hard wood as it is man made and constructed from wood waste.

The wood can be damaged if exposed to liquids for a long period, it will absorb the liquid and become heavy and weak and if dried become weak and easily snapped.

Yes my product is for indoor use therefore will not be exposed to water for long periods of time as it would if it was left outside in the rain.

Acrylic It is cheap and strong and can be easily obtained anywhere in multiple colours and sizes.

It can be easily scratched and cracked as it is plastic and has a brittle property.

No because It can scratch easily and I am making a coffee table and bedside table which will be in contact with cups and objects which means it can be scratched and loose the aesthetic quality.

Oak Oaks aesthetic quality makes the product look nice it is also strong durable and will not absorb water as fast as a man made board would such as MDF.

Oak is very expensive as it is a hard wood and will make the product cost allot of money.

This is not appropriate as the product is aimed at students and young adults who will not spend large amount on tables therefore using an expensive hard wood is not appropriate.

I chose to evaluate one man made composite material one polymer and one hardwood. The most appropriate material was plywood as it is cheap has a good strength to weight ratio and looks good as well as being easy to apply a finish.

Development of my idea

Here are some more developments I made I decided to make my model out of acrylic using a line bender and look at what shapes I would be able to achieve using a polymer as supposed to a wood. I can consider using plastic for my main product however I do not know if it will be strong enough and if it will be to expensive.

I decided that I did not want to make my model out of acrylic or any polymers therefore wanted to make a model using plywood

Making my table

Before I started to make my table I carried out some tests to see weather the table will be functional at the angles I was going to cut it. I used small pieces of plywood and cut them into the angles I planned to do with my final work I then used adhesive to stick them together and tested weather it was stable and function able. I then used metal rods as a test on how to attach the wood I put the rods directly through one piece to the other and it was very stable. However the worry was that on a larger scale because there would be pressure on it the bars could rip through the wood.

Because my previous models and this model was successful I decided to carry on making my table.

Making my table

I started by marking out my sheets of plywood so that I know what sizes I need to achieve the angle of the table. I then got my work cut at the angle of the table saw. Before I cut After this I then laminated two pieces of ply together to reach the thickness I wanted for my table. I did this with PVA glue and once dry I sanded the sides to make them even and smooth. Once my wood was laminated I realised that the wood was very heavy and due to the angle I was going to cut them had to make a jig to stop the wood from moving when being cut. The jig was a simple MDF box with a flat piece of MDF stuck to the side this allowed me to clap my piece on a push it through the saw. I then experimented with putting metal rods through the wood to make a strong structure that could join the angles together. On my main table I decided not to do this and instead do a row of nails and screws as I could cover them with filler to make them unnoticeable.

This is my jig I made to allow my wood to be cut without falling or moving when being pushed through the saw.

Here is a picture of the angle I cut my wood. Because the saw was at a tilt the wood moving was a big problem however the jig ensured this didn’t happen.

Quality controlI made sure to test the jig works and

keeps the wood level and will ensure it will

not fall

Making my table

The next thing I did was make a draw for my table. I had already allowed space in my table top for me to add a draw. I did this buy cutting out a section before I laminated my wood to then allow me to use the wood I cut out as the draw. My initial idea was to have a push to open draw however I was unable to do this. However if my product was mass produced to sell in a shop it would have a push to open draw. I got normal draw runners and used the routing machine to make a slit to push them into. I also added a slight dip underneath the draw for ergonomic reasons and to make the draw easier to open and more ergonomic to use.

I used the router machine that uses CAD CAM, the benefit of using this is it is allot more accurate and precise then I could be if I routered it by hand or used a milling machine. I marked out all of the dimensions and then put them into the computer and they where routered out. I then screwed the draw runners into place and could then attach the draw to the table.

Quality controlI made sure the milling

machine was set to the right proportions and that the

runners would fit once it was milled.

Making my table

Once the draw was attached to my table I sanded all the edges removed all off the filler and made sure all edges where smooth and flat. I also made sure that the draw look flush against the wood and was unnoticeable when closed. I tested my draw by putting books and my phone in it to make sure it was fit for its function and it was. Finally I varnished the edges very the layered plywood effect is seen, I used clear varnish as I wanted to keep the plywood look. I then used a mixed stain and varnish for the rest of the table to give it character and make it look complete.

Before varnish and stain my table was a light wood colour, I wanted to stain and varnish it as it would make the table stand out more and make it look finished as when it was not stained it did not look finished.

Quality controlHere I used masking tape to make sure the varnish and stain did not

run on to places I did not intend to be painted. Some stain leaked

through while it dried however once it was dry I removed the

masking tape and sanded it off.

I asked my teacher what colour varnish he thinks would look good on the table and he said a varnish with a red tint would look good so

Evaluation

Evaluation of the table I have made a multifunctional occasional table out of plywood, I only had resources to make one table however if sold it would come as two. The table is made up of laminated plywood that I cut at angles to create a ‘Z’ shape. I also incorporated a sleek unnoticeable draw that is flush with the wood and has no handle. This makes the table looks modern and stylish. The draw has a dip underneath it that I milled out which helps open the draw. As a finish I used a varnish stain mix and applied it to all the flat surfaces of the table as I liked the effect of the lamination of the plywood against the stain colour.

What went well and what can be improvedAn improvement of the table could be that their is a connection of the back of each table that allows them to connect as a coffee table as supposed to being pushed together which is what happens with the current table design. I could also of used a less heavy material then plywood as the table is heavy however this give it stability. I was unable to incorporate a push to open mechanism into my draw as I ran out of time to do so. Some things that went well are the proportions of the table. It is within the two heights I needed this is important as it will look affective when used for it functions. I also like the size of the draw as it is not to big however is big enough for what it was designed to hold. The draw can hold phones keys change thin books and other small objects.

Future development of the project. If I was to develop the table in the future I would like to make a fitting to connect the two tables together when they are being used as a coffee table. I would also liked to explore other runners that I could use in the table and other styles I could create for the draw. I would incorporate the push to open mechanism into my table as this would make the table look effective and modern. I would need to work out where and how to apply this mechanism to the runners and where to place the mechanism to make it work effectively and smoothly.

What did my target audience think of my product?I showed my cousin pictures of my finished product he said he licked the modern look it had and he also liked how the draw was hidden within the table itself. He said that the table appealed to him and that he would buy and use it if it was sold in a shop. My class also licked the table they fall within the target audience for the product therefore the positive feedback is good as it means that the product appeals to the audience.

Aesthetics and functionality : My product must appeal to the target audience which is teen agers and young adults therefore my product will need to be sleek and modern to refer to I have asked my cousin to look at photos of my work throughout the manufacturing process to give me ideas to make the product appeal to my audience. He has already recommended a sleek modern table with unnoticeable seems with a draw with enough draws space for books mobiles phones keys and other objects found next to a bed or that have come out my customers pocket. My table is sleek and modern and would appeal to a teen age audience I know this as I have asked my peer group and my cousin as well as my teachers and they all like the product. It also has a draw that has enough space to fit various items such as phones keys change and books the table it self can also hold these items on the table top and stands steady. Cost: My product must be affordable to the target audience. My target audience will either be in education or have a part time or full time job. The price range here is broad as the customers that have jobs will have more money then those who still attended full time education therefore I have decided to make sure my table is affordable and not to expensive. However I want to use materials that will last and be durable so that the product is worth the money. The table is made out of plywood PVA adhesive nails screws and metal draw runners with varnish and stain finish this could keep costs considerably low and allow the table to sell for a low price to suit the target audience. Customer: My customer is young adults that are in education or have left education and are starting to work, The customer will have the product for occasional use and be able to have it in a multifunctional room with out it getting in the way. The customer will want draw space to fit every day objects such as keys phones change or a wallet and other items found next to a bed. The table must be easily mobile so that it can be moved easily and connected to make the coffee table. The table also has to be unisex to appeal to both male and female customers I will make sure my product appeals to both genders by asking people in my class. The table has more weight then intended however is still easily movable. I have asked my class for there view on my table and it is liked by both boys and girls so the table has maintained unisex appeal.Environment: My product is for a room with limited space such as student accommodation, small flats or a room. The table must be able to take up as little space as possible as some customers will have reduced space. For this I will research into sizing of my table to make sure it is not bigger then it should be and therefore would take up unnecessary space. The environment is also being benefited as I am using a man made composite material which can be recycled and is made from recycled wood.I have used plywood which is an environmentally friendly material and I have also made my table a suitable size to be able to fit into small spaces and ensured it is not bigger then it needs to be. Safety: My product will be made from plywood and be constructed with either adhesives nails screws or metal rods. To ensure safety I will make sure no screws or nails protrude the surface and that there is no risk of the rods ripping through the material and possibly hurting the customer. I will also sand down all my edges on my table to make sure they are not to sharp. I have made my product safe by sanding the edges and making sure the screws do not protrude the wood surface.Size: size is key in my product and I have considered that my target audience may have limited space for the product and that it also may need to be stored. I will study the sizing of my product in detail and make sure it is not bigger than it has to be to perform it function. The table is small and takes up little floor space it is appropriate for a small room. It is also small in height which is convenient if it was to be stored. Function: The function of my product is to be an occasional table with multifunctional properties that also have storage in the form of a draw. My table will need to be within the size of an average coffee table and within the size of an average bedside table which I will consider in my research. The table meets its function by being able to stand and hold objects on its surface it also has the draw that allows numerous objects to fit inside I have made sure the table is the right size and is not inappropriately big for its function.Materials: The materials I will use for my table is plywood. I will use this man made composite as it is cheaper then alternative woods such as Oak or Mahogany however has good properties and can be finished with a veneer if needed. It will also be easy to laminate to get the required thickness I need for my table and these laminations will be unnoticeable due to the exposed lamination on the sides of the plywood. I have used plywood and it has been successful in that it holds the weight on the table and was also easily finished by using varnish and stain.

Specification analysis after project

My finished product

I have tested how my table is when I place objects on the top off it. The table was stable and sturdy and had enough space on it without it feeling cramped.

Testing

The draw was the main feature of the table and had enough space to fit books keys and various objects such as phones pencils pens and would be good to put small pocket objects in. The draw was strong whilst holding the objects and closed all the way as well.

I have test my table to see if it can preform the jobs it has to be able to do to bit fit for its function.

Design ideas