Design Description
Design requirements: What I implemented in my prototype:
Variable speed control: A fluid mechanism in the trigger that changes the speed of the screwdriver's spin depending on the amount of pressure put into the trigger
Drill bit selection mechanism: A touch sensitive screen on the top of the drill that allows users to choose and switch between 5 sizes of Phillips and flathead bits
Non-digital reverse mechanism: A forward/reverse switch to the joint of the drill, mimicking the switches on current market electric drills to allow users to have seamless usage between their current tools and this prototype
Monochromatic/non-touch sensitive digital A Monochromatic, non-touch sensitive digital screen readout for number of screws screwed/unscrewed: the base of the drill that counts the amount of screws screwed and unscrewed
Ambidextrous use: Simple handle design that is symmetrical and ergonomic for both left and right handed users
Rechargeable battery: A charging port on the side of the base with a rechargeable and replaceable battery in the base.
Minimum 6 inches long: Height while bent: 8 inch Height while straightened: 12 inch
Weight between 1-1.5 pounds: Rice added into the base and the top of the drill
Factors I Evaluated:
Usability and desirability were the two main items I was thinking about while designing the prototype. With these in mind, I decided to go for a design that was similar to current market products while still adding new aspects that are unique to my prototype. For example, adding a switch mechanism similar to current market electric drills which allows seamless usage of multiple tools. I also added a digital screen that simplifies the drill bit changing process for the user, removing the need to manage and possibly losing all the small bit pieces.
Sketches
1st & 2nd Idea Sketches
3rd Idea Sketches
Prototype
Describe the prototypes you created and the process by which you got them (e.g., a brief explanation of the whole process from ideation to completion of the assignment). Include sketches, scans, photos, and other evidence of the design, the prototype, and your testing.
Bent Side View
Bent Back View
Vertical Side View
Screen Face 1
Screen Face 2
2 Drill Bits
Summary & Analysis
The weight and dimensions of the prototype were a good size and weight for many users of different hand size. The buttons on the screen clearly showed what the buttons would do and are easily comprehensible for all users.
An aspect that needs some improvement is the usability for users who may not be familiar with current market electric drills. For users familiar with current market electric drills, the usability of the prototype was easy to understand and get used to. The trigger being pressure sensitive and changing the speed of the drill, the forward/reverse switch mechanism, and the type of grip were all familiar aspects. During the user testing, I found that users who were unfamiliar with current market electric drills had some confusion with the forward/reverse switch mechanism and what the switch's purpose was.
An aspect that was brought to attention during user testing was the lack of an on and off button. This is a big oversight since there would be no usage of the prototype if there was no possible way to turn on or off the electric screwdriver.
From the user testing, I concluded that my design had many good aspects that allowed users to manipulate and customize the electric screwdriver for a more unique and fluid usage, but also many oversights that may cause a large dip in usability and feasibility for the future of this product.
User Testing Video Demo
