hairdryer project

In this project I gathered information about current market hairdryers and their consumers. Through analysis of existing products, I identified key trends, user preferences, and areas for improvement within the industry. Utilizing the research from my study, I then developed a product to fulfil customer desires and redefine the hairstyling experience.

Process

01.

Interviews and research

02.

Ideation and sketching

03.

Advanced sketches

04.

Prototyping and testing

05.

Final design and renders

Interviews and Research

To start, I conducted an investigation into the multifaceted world of hair dryers. Delving into the market landscape, I conducted research by engaging in interviews with hairstylists and end-users alike. Through this exploration, I aimed to discover the prevailing trends, user preferences, and technological advancements shaping the current market dynamics. These interactions served as the foundation for my subsequent design, providing an understanding of the existing challenges and opportunities within the hair dryer industry. This initial phase not only laid the groundwork for informed decision-making, but fueled my passion for crafting a product that advances conventional boundaries and addresses the evolving needs of users.

tangled wires

Wires are bulky and heavy. Users often report feeling obstructed by wires, and they make storage a pain as they often get tangled with other devices. Long wires must be maneuvered around during the drying process and complicate properly using the device.

lack of control

Flimsy buttons placed in inconvenient positions cause confusion. Switches are reportedly pushed accidently, and settings are unexpectedly changed. Often the temperature controls consist only of extremes, very hot and very cold, causing frustration.

no proper place

The bulk of the wires and drier often has trouble finding a home within the bathroom. Often the dryer is simply hidden away by being thrown into the nearest drawer or cabinet. The large shape is obtrusive with no apparent place where it belongs.

Emma S.

“the cord of the hair dryer is very clunky and added a lot of weight to the dryer.”

Miguel A.

"because of the placement of the buttons I would accidently hit the temperature switch often."

Grace S.

“might as well look good on my counter if it's going to damage my hair."

Interview Quotes

Ideation and Rough Sketches

Venturing into the exciting realm of ideation and rough sketching, we find the second phase of my project. Building upon the insights garnered from the research and user interactions, I began generating a plethora of design ideas. This phase involved a fusion of imaginative thinking and practical considerations, with the goal of pushing the boundaries of conventional hairstyling devices. Engaging in rapid, exploratory sketching, I allowed ideas to flow freely and evolve organically.

Advanced Sketches

Entering the advanced sketching phase marks a significant juncture in my design journey, where the initial burst of creative ideation converges with practicality. This pivotal stage in the project represents the convergence of inspiration and functionality. As the ideation is narrowed down, a refined set of drawings captures the innovative considerations vital for the development of the hair dryer. This stage is characterized by a deliberate pursuit of a product created to elevate the hairstyling experience.

Prototyping and Testing

Embarking on the transformative stage of prototyping and testing, I translated the refined sketches into tangible, three-dimensional models. The first iteration saw the birth of prototypes crafted from layered cardboard, intricately cut with a laser cutter. This initial physical manifestation allowed for a hands-on exploration of form and functionality. In the subsequent phase, high-density foam served as the canvas for CNC-machined models. Each was then meticulously hand-refined to capture the nuanced and ergonomic details critical to the design. These prototypes became the focal point of assessments, scrutinized both by peer designers and the insightful interviewees from stage one. This refinement process resulted in the selection of a final model that resonated with the practical needs and visual preferences of its future users.

Making of the model

Creation of a comprehensive 3D model using the SolidWorks program, laying the digital groundwork for the physical prototypes.

recreate the handle

Iterative refinement based on user feedback, particularly addressing handle ergonomics. Redesigning the handle in SolidWorks and producing a revised carboard model.

recreate the base

Identification of fit issues between the hair dryer and its charging base during the detailed foam modeling phase. Iterative redesign of the stand in SolidWorks followed by CNC machining to ensure seamless integration.

cardboard mockup

Initial prototype development through the use of a laser cutter, crafting a layered cardboard model to visualize and assess the overall design.

foam mockup

Employing a CNC machine to fabricate the hair dryer from high-density foam, enhancing the prototype's structural integrity and aesthetic fidelity.

final mockup

Final refinement through meticulous hand carving and sanding of the foam model, adding intricate details to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional excellence in the ultimate prototype.

Final design and Renders

In the culminating stage of this design journey, I employed KeyShot to transition from the tangible realm of prototyping to the visual world of digital rendering. Armed with a model crafted in SolidWorks, I working to bring the final design to life in stunning detail. Through the lens of KeyShot, I calibrated each contour, texture, and material to accurately capture the details of the hair dryer. These high-quality images provided captivating final shots, showcasing the small yet complex form that defines this project. As these digital creations brought new dimension and life to early sketches, they embodied the culmination of research, ideation, prototyping, and user-centric refinement into their ultimate result.