The purpose of this project is to analyze a high-touch product and improve it ergonomically using research and data. The information gathered will inform a new, effective, aesthetically appropriate design. I chose to redesign a snow brush with an ice scraper. Based on personal experience and the observation of others I identified ergonomic issues with the product.
Ergonomic Product User Testing
After exploring ergonomic issues like hand placement, grip, length, depth, and comfort, I made modular testing brushes to find an ergonomic solution. The testing pieces consisted of 7 different brush handles, 2 different brushes, and four different scrapers.
I tested eight people to find the most ergonomic option for them. I had them test each handle, brush, and scraper and pick their favorites. We tested using a midsize SUV. Using all the results from 8 people and their comments I was able to pick the best combination of parts to refine for the final.
The final combination after testing is pictured here, It includes the highest rated scraper, brush, and handle.
I used this brush and comments like:
Add length
Add better grip
Make it easy to flip from brush to scraper
To create the concepts for the design.
Design Brief and Concepts
-Secure, comfortable grip, and leverage for effective snow and ice removal
-Long enough to reach across majority
of a vehicle
of a vehicle
-Compact enough to fit in car
-Easy to switch from scraping to brushing
-Balanced and lightweight
-Bristles that are soft on the car
-Soft grip materials with non-slip texture
-Thin enough scraper to get under ice
Final Designs
I combined some of my concepts and ideas for my final design. It is a snow brush with multiple options for secure, comfortable grips, to effectively remove ice and snow. It has a wide, thin, ice scraper and a large brush that can pivot to different angles.
The multiple comfortable grips give you options for removing snow and ice efficiently.
Final Prototype
This improved snow brush is more ergonomic and easy to use. It utilizes negative space, is longer, has a better angle and sized scraper, multiple comfortable places to hold, and a large brush for snow removal.
This snow brush: has a secure, comfortable grip for effective snow and ice removal; length to reach across majority of a vehicle; ease when switching from scraping to brushing; is balanced and lightweight, has soft grip materials with non-slip texture; and a thin scraper to get under ice.
