The Directory - Faculty of Engineering - University of Leeds

The Directory
Product Design Exhibition 2009

Contents
Foreword 02
Individual Skills 03
Core Learning Areas 04
The Course Tree 05
Our Students 06
The Work 07
BDes Students 09
Jenny Andrews 10
Alex Anglin 12
Josh Ayto 14
Kristie Beck 16
Luke T Bennett 18
Tern Chuan Cheah 20
Daniel Chisholm 22
Frankie Critchfield 24
Edward Davies 26
Duncan Joal 28
Maxim Fedeczko 30
Liam Gardner 32
Thomas Griffiths 34
Emma Haberton 36
James Harrison 38
Mark Harrison Stanton 40
Yasser Hassan 42
Ben Hollings-Tennant 44
Hanna Holloway 46
Sophie Hough 48
Chris Huggins 50
Patrick Hutton 52
Nick Johnson 54
Alex Killeavy 56
Chloe Le Poidevin 58
Robert Lynch 60
Sarah Morley 62
Josh Newcombe 64
Andrew Peto 66
Alex Roberts 68
Samuel Rock 70
Tiffany Roddis 72
Elizabeth Sayers 74
Adriano Staffieri 76
Hannah Sugrue 78
James Todd 80
Justine Tong 82
Richard Wilson 84
Jason Winder 86
The Exhibition 88
Mdes Students 99
Jack Calvert 100
Edward Carroll 102
Christopher G Drew 104
Thomas Eales 106
James Hyson 108
Henry James 110
Emma Pinnock 112
Adam Robinson 114
Sarah Stevens 116
Jade Tso 118
‘Solar Aid’ Team > 120
Henry James
Adam Robinson
Ata Kyereme-Boafo
‘Nokia Pop’ Team > 122
Louise Barratt
Cheri Beer
Christopher G Drew
Thomas Eales
Sarah Stevens
Acknowledgements
& Awards 124

Foreword
I am delighted to be able to introduce our 2009 Product Design brochure. At the
degree show this year we had exhibits from 49 Level 3 BDes students, 15 Level 4 MDes
students and one Study Abroad student from Queensland University of Technology in
Australia. Although the projects do not represent all of the students’ activities through
the year, they do provide a snapshot of both their product design-related skills and
knowledge, and ways in which they use them to inform their design thinking and deliver
innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Many of the students talk, in different ways through their career aims, of their aspirations
to make a positive impact on people’s lives. This enthusiasm is an enduring theme in
this year’s projects. One of the most rewarding aspects of the show was seeing the
potential societal impact, both nationally and in developing countries, that students
might make through their designs. As you will see, many of the projects have addressed
global challenges such as changing demographics resulting from ageing populations,
the needs of developing countries, climate change and the importance of incorporating
healthy diets and physical activity into our daily lives. The majority of the projects in
the exhibition are included in this brochure but a small number are not because their
potential has already been recognised and is being developed, in some cases by
external partners who are working with the students concerned to develop the designs
into marketable products.
As I have said in previous years, our students are one of our greatest assets. I hope that
you enjoy the brochure and will join me in both congratulating the students on their
achievements and thanking the staff who have supported them so well. Our best wishes
go with our new graduates as they embark on the next stages of their careers and we
hope that they will look back with pleasure on their time in Leeds.
Alison McKay
Professor of Design Systems & Programme Director
02

Individual Skills
The Product Design program at the University of Leeds has been designed to produce
creative designers who understand the role of aesthetics and technology in consumer
products which are key attributes identified by many leading employers in the sector.
The program bridges the gap between visual-arts and engineering giving Leeds
graduates a significant advantage over other institutions by equipping them with a wider
variety of employment opportunities
Students participate in project and workshop based learning giving them the
opportunity to put knowledge into practice. Studio activities focus on the various stages
in the design process from concept development, detail development, design definition,
developing skills such as drawing and sketching through to model making, Computer
Aided Design and rapid prototyping. Many of the projects are team based resulting in
oral & multimedia presentations. Student experience develops an understanding of the
value of team-working and develops confidence and presentation skills preparing them
for the today’s working environment.
03

Core Learning Areas
Creativity,
Innovation & Design
In the context of this
course we look at
creativity as one of the key
driving forces behind the
generation of new ideas.
Innovation is the term
we use to describe the
successful exploitation of
those new ideas.
Design is the process that
we use to shape guide
and evaluate those new
ideas linking creativity
with innovation to produce
new products.
04
Technology
Manufacturing & Materials
All the features, benefits
and costs in a product are
designed in. Technology,
manufacturing and
materials all have a
part in the costs and
performance of a product
during development and
realisation.
It is essential in today’s
technologically advanced
world that our designers
are technically and
technologically literate.
Human Factors
& Ethics
Sustainability and ethical
considerations are now
key factors affecting the
design and development
of consumer products
and services. As many
our products today are
technically complex it is
users who need to form a
key element of products
definition and operation.
The development of
successful products is
reliant upon our designers
using processes which
both incorporate and
evaluate user preferences,
ergonomics, and interface
design.
Business Context
& Marketing
Knowledge of the
business context such
as target markets and
competitor analysis is
essential both to form
clear a clear product
specification prior to
development and to
commercially exploit the
new product once realised.
Psychology, marketing
and enterprise skills
combine allowing our
designers to create
products which satisfy
a business model
based around profit,
sustainability, and growth.

Thinking
Enterprise
Form Creativity
Psychology
Business
Digital Media
Decision Making
Sketching
Science
Marketing
Engineering
Ethics
Human Factors
Electronics
Computing
Mechanics
Sustainability
Societal Values
Ergonomics
05

Our students…
10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24
26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40
42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56
58 60 62 64 66 68 70 72
74 76 78 80 82 84 86 100
102 104 106 108 110 112 114 116
118 120 122
06

and their work.
11 13 15 17 19 21 23 25
27 29 31 33 35 37 39 41
43 45 47 49 51 53 55 57
59 61 63 65 67 69 71 73
75 77 79 81 83 85 87 101
103 105 107 109 111 113 115 117
119 121 123
07

B/Des Students
QAA Degree level qualification
“ Graduates with a bachelor’s degree with honours will have developed an understanding
of a complex body of knowledge. Some of it at the current boundaries of an academic
discipline. Through this, the graduate will have developed analytical techniques and
problem-solving skills that can be applied in many types of employment. The graduate
will be able to evaluate evidence, arguments and assumptions, to reach sound
judgements, and to communicate effectively.
An honours graduate should have the qualities needed for employment in situations
requiring the executive of personal responsibility, and decision-making in complex and
unpredictable circumstances.”
From: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/students/guides/UnderstandQuals.asp
The Level 3 Design Project is the culmination of the BDes degree, representing 50%
of the credits for the final year. Students design a product, of their choosing and
demonstrate it through a prototype or concept model.
They are required to demonstrate user involvement in developing the concept and show
that it is commercially viable.
Projects:
> Packaging
> Limited Resources
> Medical Devices
> Sports
> Consumer Electronics
>
The Inclusive and Sustainable Home
09

10
> Jenny Andrews
REFRIGERATED
TRAvEL MAKE-UP
CASE
The optimum temperature for make-up is room
temperature.
Many oil based cosmetic products such as
foundation cream, lipstick and soft eye pencils
begin to melt and congeal once they pass this
critical temperature, making them difficult to
apply and often rendering them unusable.
various cosmetic brands and beauty advice columns
suggest that placing make-up into a refrigerated
environment prior to use in a hot or sunny situation
could preserve their original format and prevent
the spoiling of expensive products. However this is
temporary and short lived solution.
I have designed a make-up case designed to chill
and protect the most popular make up products
used when travelling to beach locations and hot
climates. I have calculated that my case can
maintain a temperature of 21°C below the outside
temperature and sustain this for 8 hours.
“ Many oil based cosmetic products
begin to melt and congeal once
they pass this critical temperature,
often rendering them unusable.”
> Contact Details
63 Warwick Square, Pimlico,
London, SW1v 2AL
men6ja@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
Human Resources.
The primary market for this cooling product is
females travelling to or in hot climates including
beach destinations.
The make-up cooler will cost more than the average
make-up bag, however I believe that the additional
initial expense could save the user money in the
long run, negating the necessity to replace spoiled
make-up products. The application of make-up in
hot conditions would be facilitated by storage at the
correct temperature.
The technology and design principles could be
applied to other applications such as medicine
storage.
The novelty, colour and design elements would
also be of paramount importance when marketing
the product.

01
Heat sink to
dissipate heat
> 0 2
Seal to keep case
closed and prevent
heat from escaping
> 03
Hinge
> 0 4
Battery
> 05
Insulation layer
> 0 6
Inner layer
> 07
Peltier element
for cooling
01
02
06
03
07
05
04
11

12
> ALEx AngLIn
THE vERTEBRAE
(LAPTOP CASING)
With an increase in wireless communications,
transport and portability, it has meant that the areas
in which people are working have become very
diverse. Also with the increase in computer usage
especially laptops, it has become increasingly
important to make sure people are using correct
body positions and posture whilst working for long
periods of time. The issues of working posture
within offices and at home have already been
tackled and designed for many times before.
However the issue of working from other areas such
as on trains, in parks, on floors, with and without
desks, to which this new wireless technology has
allowed, has not yet been touched. Naturally with
this new wireless technology, it means that people
will be able to work in very diverse locations. Surely
therefore, it would seem that however diverse that
working environment, good healthy posture, needs
to be designed for. “Despite the name, laptops
should not be used on the lap as this is likely to
induce poor working posture.” Leeds University.
My product is a new design for laptop casings with
an ergonomic focus. It is a rethink of how a laptop
functions as a reading article, typewriter as well as
being portable. The design focuses on ergonomics
“ It would seem that however
diverse the working environment,
good healthy posture, needs to
be designed for.”
> Contact Details
59 Dore Road, Dore
Sheffield, S17 3ND
men6a2a@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
To become a professional designer in
graphical or product design fields. A life aim
of mine is also to start up a company.
as well as portability, something that hasn’t been
apparent in previous laptop designs, where
portability has normally been the main focus.
An extra panel slides out of the main body and
is hinged at both ends, allowing for extensive
adjustability, as well as an easy fold away function.
The higher display height lifts the user’s head,
allows the user to straighten their back and in turn
makes sure the user’s neck is in a neutral position.
The wireless keypad and scroll mouse can also
slide out allowing them to be nearer the user having
the effect of making sure the user doesn’t slump
forwards whilst reaching the controls. The wireless
capabilities of this keypad also allow for maximum
flexibility in where and how a user wants to sit and
type. This and all the other features allow for a much
more ergonomic user experience that is flexible to
every environment in which the user wishes to work.
The vertebrae has been designed with advice
from experts in osteopathy and posture, making
the device of top class medical standard. This,
along with the fact that I’ve used up to date
anthropometric data in the development of this
product, makes it an extremely healthy solution for
anyone working anywhere.

01
Extra Panel slides
out from the main
body to separate
display and interface
> 0 2
Wireless keyboard can
slide out from main body
> 0 3
Slide mechanism allows
for a variety of tilt angles
and increased display
height
> 0 4
Friction hinges allow
the user to easily attain
desired positioning that
can be held
> 0 5
Hinges at both ends
allow for maximum
adjustability
> 0 6
Brushed aluminium
plated surface finish
> 0 7
Black polycarbonate
injection moulded case
> 08
Bio mimicary –
Inspriration from
the vertebrae
04
03
01
02 08
05
07
06
13

14
> JOSH AyTO
TRI LOCK
The design of child resistant packaging for
medicines has remained relatively unchanged for
the past thirty to forty years. These packages have
been successful in being child proof, however
they neglect the user, especially those with joint
problems. Due to the difficulties in opening these
types of containers, it is not uncommon for people
to decant the contents into unsafe non-child proof
packaging, a practice which currently causes
an estimated 10,000 cases/year of accidental
poisoning in the UK, mostly involving small children.
The elderly are also affected by this poor design,
those who have no one else to help them open their
medicines, can possibly miss vital doses of drugs,
which could help improve their quality of life.
“ Designed to be as easy to
open as possible while still
being fully child proof.”
> Contact details
Redwood House, London Road
Retford, Notts, DN22 7JG
josh.ayto@btinternet.com
> Career Aims
To pursue a career in product design
and project management.
My product is designed to be as easy to open as
possible while still being fully child proof. This is
accomplished by a three stage logic lock, that does
not require the user to be stronger or have better
co-ordination than a child. The lock is opened by
the simultaneous light pressing of the three buttons,
with the central button being the main locking
button, that must be pressed first or at the same
time as the other two, for the product to unlock. The
product is designed to be able to purchased by the
user who can then easily attach the product to the
majority of their current drug containers.
The thread on the base of the product is designed
to lock, and cannot be removed easily once
attached. The product can also be used by the
manufacturer who can take extra steps to make
sure the design is firmly locked onto the container.
This product helps people that have to regularly
take medication, to worry less about how hard
it may be to access their drugs or the need for
decanting the drugs into a different, non-child proof
container. Improving quality of life for the adult while
still assuring that any children are safe from being
able to gain access dangerous substances.

01
3 button locking system,
the middle button must
be pressed first to unlock
the container
> 0 2
The buttons latch
into the base unit to
lock the design
> 0 3
Locks the teeth of
the buttons in place
once shut
> 0 4
Ergonomic shape,
to help ease the strain
on the hand and wrist
> 0 5
The thread allows the
design to be attached
to any current medicine
container, but then
locks to it
04
05
01
03
02
15

16
> KrISTIE BECK
v.A.B.A (vARIABLE
ADULT BUOYANCY
AID)
One in five people in the UK alone cannot swim.
Swimming aids designed for adults are almost
non-existent, and those that can be used by weak
and non-swimmers are few and far between.
This presents a problem for those adults that
desperately want to learn to swim, but do not have
enough confidence. One of the main problems
coaches find is that there are no specific buoyancy
aids for those that struggle to float, and have a fear
of sinking in the water.
v.a.b.a is designed to be a one off purchase that an
adult can use while learning to swim in a pool. It has
been designed to be as discreet as possible, while
also encouraging the correct swimming strokes
and placement in the water, both of which are very
important when learning to swim.
“ Enhance an adult’s confidence in
the water, and make the experience
of learning to swim as enjoyable and
stress free as possible.”
> Contact Details
Dhoon Farm, Maughold,
Isle of Man, IM7 1HL
kristiebeck@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
Play a major role in the improvement
of inclusively designed sports equipment.
This aid allows the user to concentrate on
swimming, rather than worrying about staying
afloat, an issue that was highlighted during the
user research and can affect the user’s confidence
dramatically while they are learning to swim.
Furthermore it is fully adaptable and allows the
user to choose whether they wear it on their front
or back; this could be dictated by the stroke
being learnt. The design also features adjustable
buoyancy pockets that can be easily altered
depending on the user’s ability and size.
v.a.b.a is unique as there are no products like it
currently on the market, that have been designed
with adults specifically in mind. When used, it
will enhance an adult’s confidence in the water
and make the experience of learning to swim as
enjoyable and stress free as possible.

01
Inner valves between
pockets allow selective
buoyancy for the body
and the hips
> 0 2
Small holes increase the
gripping surface
> 0 3
velcro and elasticated
straps for easy
adjustment
> 0 4
Air pockets that can be
inflated and adjusted to
suit the user
> 0 5
Only one outer valve is
needed to inflate the
device
05
04
01
02
03
17

18
> LUKE T BEnnETT
COMPACT
AUTOINJECTOR
For allergy sufferers susceptible of anaphylaxis
carrying that life saving dose of adrenaline can be
a matter of life and death. This is a 24 hour task as
the auto injector carrying the adrenaline has to be
carried everywhere, as anaphylaxis if not treated
immediately can kill in minutes. This is a problem
for millions worldwide and there are currently 1.2
million anaphylaxis sufferers in Britain.
Current autoinjectors on the market are bulky,
unattractive and unportable, the market leader in
Britain being Epipen. I researched into the current
flaws and concluded that its size and usability
deters 47% of users from even carrying the life
saving dose around with them.
“ Autoinjector and components
are almost half the size of
current market leader being less
invasive, easier to administer
and could potentially save lives.”
> Contact Details
Lawsings, Clapham
Yorkshire, LA2 8ET
lukebennett1@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
Multifaceted entrepreneur/Product Designer.
My design incorporates a compact injector design
in an ergonomic protective sleeve. When needed
the device’s sleeve extends out with a pull and twist
motion locking in place giving the user a larger device
to grip. The device is then ready for administration
by pushing the end against the mid thigh.
The new design of autoinjector and components
are almost half the size of current market leader
being less invasive, easier to administer and could
potentially save lives.

01
Pull and twist lock
extending handle for
activating device
> 0 2
Downsized components
resulting in compact
sleeve
> 0 3
Window for viewing
vial condition
> 0 4
Pressure sensitive trigger
> 0 5
Overall compact design
virtually half the size
of Epipen
05
04
03
01
02
19

20
> “JErEMy” TErn CHUAn CHEAH
RODA-WHEELCHAIR
Indonesia is a country where I grew up. During that
time I have always involved myself with the local
people – they are hard working, smart and self
reliant. This does not help as they are not given the
appropriate support from the government.
“20 million people registered as being disabled”
but from experience, this number is far from the
actual figure. Having worked in several charity
groups have brought me back to an organisation
called Yayasan Wisma Chesire. It was clear after
a few conversations with the caretaker that the
wheelchairs provided to the residents are not
equipped for their needs.
My aim was to develop a wheelchair that could be
provided for not just the Indonesian people but
individual users in other Asian countries because
they potential face the same problems and are in
similar environments.
“ All the materials are sourced
and manufactured locally so any
damaged parts can be replaced
from even a street shop.”
> Contact Details
15 Spencely Street, Leeds,
West Yorkshire, LS2 9DY
mn06tcc@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
To be able to continue my career in design
back in Indonesia and to start a charity.
This design has several changes from their
current wheelchairs.
It has a simpler structure that makes it lightweight.
The seats have circular holes to allow for better
ventilation where a supportive cushion can be
attached (via velcro) if the user so wishes. There
are inflatable tyres so that the wheelchair is more
flexible on rocky/damaged surfaces.
All the materials are sourced and manufactured
locally so any damaged parts can be easily replaced
from even a street shop. The price of the wheelchair
is put at an estimated price around USD 220 which
is more than 50% cheaper than their model (if
sold individually).

01
velcro tabs
> 0 2
Supportive cushion
> 0 3
Brakes
> 0 4
Strap to prevent
legs from slipping
off foot rests
> 0 5
Extendable – same
method as extending
a forearm crutch
> 0 6
Standard 24” wheel.
Easily replaced
05
04
03
02
01
06
21

22
“ A bike de signe d
for clean and
convenient urban
transportation.”
> DAnIEL CHISHOLM
“ MY-RIDE” URBAN
UTILITY BIKE
With increasing traffic congestion, tightening
financial constraints and increasing environmental
concerns, running a car in the city has become an
increasingly impractical and irresponsible choice
for urban dwellers. When striving for a speedy
and convenient solution for short distance innercity
journeys, many people are turning to bikes
and cycling for an answer. But despite the bicycle
market offering countless options for prospective
city cyclists, users are often left unsatisfied; with
a choice of complex, high-maintenance and
expensive equipment, often ending up with a
product which does not effectively meet their needs
or purpose.
My-ride is a bike designed for clean and convenient
urban transportation; offering cheap and
sustainable city transportation aimed at young
adults and students. My-ride is intended to provide
a complete solution for short distance travelling
in the city, focussing on usability, simplicity and
elegance; perfect for “hop-on-hop-off” runs to and
from campus or the shops.
> Contact Details
85 Fulton Road, Sheffield,
South Yorkshire, S6 3JL
daniel@daniel-chisholm.co.uk
> Career Aims
Role in sustainable design.
The design integrates several innovative features
designed to improve accessibility and simplicity
for the user in a market place dominated by overly
complicated and confusingly clutter equipment.
The ride position is tuned for relaxed city cruising
while the lightweight carbon fibre frame and street
tyres offer light, responsive and engaging riding
experience. The design uses an integrated 3-speed
hub gear in the rear wheel for clean, simple and
contained ride-ability. This innovative drive system
features a reinforced polymer belt as an alternative
to conventional metal chains and the problems
associated with them. A coaster brake within the
rear hub allows back-pedal braking and greater
control for the user, essential for negotiating busy
city traffic. Integrated storage, lighting and security
locking features make the bike a safe and viable
choice for short distance, inner city journeys.

01
Rear storage
compartment
> 0 2
Front storage
compartment and
lighting
> 0 3
Integrated 3-speed hub
gear with coaster brake
01
03
02
23

24
> FrAnKIE CrITCHFIELD
CUSTO.MED
Medicine wastage is a serious and growing problem
within the NHS. Sometimes patients with repeat
prescriptions continue to get more medicine than
they really need and stockpile them at home. This
wastes millions of pounds and huge quantities
of medicine. Recent statistics have shown that
better prescribing of medication and adherence
to prescribed regimens could save the NHS £300
million a year.
It is not just in terms of medication costs but
also treatment failures. It has been stated by the
East Lancashire primary care trust that £3.5
million is wasted in their district each year. The
saving of this limited amount of money could buy
105 more community nurses and 5000 needed
cataract operations.
Some waste is inevitable e.g. if a patient
experiences side effects to a medication they will
need to stop taking it. However a lot of medication
waste is preventable.
“ Waste will be avoided as it monitors
when new medicine is needed
and stops unneeded prescriptions
being sent out or collected.”
> Contact Details
7 Alexandra Park Road, Muswell Hill,
London, N4 4BB
francescacritch@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To pursue a career in packaging design
or visual merchandising.
The new custo.MED aims to solve these problems
and in the long term help save precious money.
The custo.MED is a new intelligent casing
and packaging for a patient’s combination of
prescription medication.
The standard model holds a maximum of three new
reusable medication cartridges, which each store a
maximum of a month’s supply of medication. After
every push dispensed a number is. Before nearing
the end of the prescription the intelligent packaging
warns the user that a new order is needed or it
uses the radio transmission system to warn the
mother pharmacy that new medication needs to be
dispensed to the user.
It allows great waste to be avoided as it monitors
when new medication is needed and stops
unneeded prescriptions being sent out or collected.

01
The electronic casing
> 0 2
The refillable medication
cartridges
> 0 3
visual feedback lighting
> 0 4
Customising Section
03
04
01
02
25

26
> EDWArD DAVIES
HIT IT! MULTI-SPORTS
EQUIPMENT
Physical activity and sport are important factors in a
child’s physical, emotional and social development.
However, our primary schools are struggling to
offer children the best possible opportunities as
they have a very small annual budget, often less
than £100, for buying, restoring and replacing
equipment. To add to this financial problem a lot
of time is wasted at the beginning and end of PE
lessons due to setting up the equipment. Teaching
staff need a solution that is easy to transport and set
up to maximize the amount of time that children can
partake in physical activities.
From a child’s perspective, the equipment is often
not designed with their abilities and needs in mind.
They may be using over-sized equipment that could
cause potential injuries in the future. Children need
equipment that is designed for children, not smaller
versions of adult equipment.
“ Teaching staff need a solution
that is easy to transport and
set up to maximize the amount
of time that children can
partake in physical activities.”
> Contact Details
34 Eastgate, Deeping St James
Peterborough, PE6 8HJ
ed.m.davies@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
I am hoping to pursue a further academic
career at the University of Leeds in the field
of affective engineering.
Hit it! Multi-sports equipment offers children and
teaching staff the opportunity to try some nontraditional
primary schools sports. It is simple to
assemble and designed with the children’s abilities
in mind, thus giving the users the best opportunity
to participate in the activity. It can be used on flat
surfaces from a school field to the sports hall due to
having a large flat weighted base.
The product is closely related to current LTA
(Lawn Tennis Association) and ECB (English
Cricket Board) coaching equipment, capitalizing
on their strengths whilst giving schools high quality
multi-sports equipment that they can afford. It
gives pupils the chance to partake in a range of
new sports activities; using equipment that is
appropriate for them and encourages them to get
involved in new sports.

01
Weighted base
to prevent net from
falling over
> 0 2
Lightweight net
> 0 3
The racquets and bats
used are existing
products recommended
by the LTA and ECB
respectively
> 0 4
Cricket stumps are
also the posts for the
tennis net
01
03
02
04
27

28
> JOAL DUnCAn
EASY DOC
“ As many as 50% of all
patients fail to comply
with the terms of their
medication…”
Medication packaging has remained, on the
whole, one of the main reasons for poor medical
compliance. As many as 50% of all patients fail to
comply with the terms of their medication whether
it be in terms of dosage, taking it at the wrong time,
or forgetting to take it altogether. This can affect
the patient’s health and have implications for the
wider society. My product comes in the form of a
medication dispenser and is designed to be part of
the user’s lifestyle which they will purchase once
as an investment to aid their health. The product is
simply programmed around the patient’s treatment
regime and aids compliance through providing
electronic reminders, whilst also organizing multiple
medications. Many patients are on multiple
medications and this is proven to be confusing as
research tests have shown.
> Contact Details
7 Talsiker Gardens, Redcar,
Cleveland, TS10 2TG
js06jd@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
I want to join a globally recognised firm,
developing my professional skills both in
the design and business acumen.
My product provides a solution to this and
is different to any other product in the way
that different medications are contained; the
compartments will only open when it is the correct
time to take that medication whilst all other
compartments remain locked! It is essentially
a combination of two components, the dock;
which is kept in the home in that “everyday” place,
and the portable dispenser; which can be taken
“anywhere at anytime”. With an ageing population
and a stretched health service the need for
delivering the right medication effectively is of great
importance and this product focuses around this
whilst giving the patient more independence and
value in their life.

01
Medication dock
> 0 2
Pill compartments
> 0 3
Interactive LCD to display
alerts, record progress
and give information
> 0 4
Buttons for navigation
and data input
> 0 5
Key ring clip to prevent
loss
02
03
04 05
01
29

30
> MAxiM FedeCzko
AvALANCHE
TRANSCEIvER
The purpose of my project is to improve the existing
avalanche transceivers. This is going to be done by
making the device user friendly by having an easy
to use interface.
Statistics taken from Swiss avalanche research has
taught me that the longer you are trapped under an
avalanche, the lower your survival rate. The survival
curve dramatically decreases after being buried
for 15 minutes. This was the main reason I wanted
to develop a product to efficiently rescue people
trapped in the event of an avalanche.
Avalanche rescue is very important in everyday
skiing and snowboarding. My device involves
two parts. The first part is a GPS interactive map
which guides skiers and snowboarders around the
mountain. The second part is a device that detects
where a person is buried under the snow in the
event of an avalanche. The main function of the
device is the second. Existing transceivers on the
market have a lack in detail and especially for first
time users are difficult to understand.
“ The product differentiates
itself from existing transceivers
by having a more efficient and
less complex interface.”
> Contact Details
Traethllawn Berriew Road, Welshpool
Powys, SY21 7ST
mn06mf@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
To pursue my interests in property
and inclusive design.
My product is designed to save and protect lives in
the event of an avalanche. If a person is buried, my
product is designed to efficiently locate them under
the snow. My device alerts the user of dangers
around them and informs them via a grid display
LCD screen. This screen informs the user which
route to take down steep terrain to avoid the risk of
causing an avalanche. The product differentiates
itself from existing transceivers by having a more
efficient and less complex interface. The product
is designed to be used by any age group. The
simplicity of the interface allows first time users to
have a detailed understanding of the product within
five minutes of using it.

01
Main Component Body
> 0 2
LCD Display
> 0 3
Sliding Switch to change
device from GPS map to
Avalanche Transceiver
> 0 3
vent which allows the
user to hear beeping
when target is close
in the event of screen
failure
> 0 4
Device in use with ski
gloves on
> 0 5
view from the top of
the device showing
the power button and
headphone slot
> 0 6
view from the bottom
shows the speaker
> 0 7
Side view showing the
depth and slide button
of the device
> 0 8
Device in Avalanche
safety mode
04
03
08
01
05 06 07
02
31

32
“ This product liberates
visually impaired users in
an area where they have
once been restricted.”
> LIAM gArDnEr
KITCHEN DRAINAGE
UTENSIL FOR THE
vISUALLY IMPAIRED
In an increasingly inclusive society there is still
significant scope for catering for the visually
impaired. Every day an estimated 100 people begin
to lose their sight and a 2005 study conducted
by RNIB showed that over 2 million people in the
UK have significant visual impairment. very few
specialist products tackle the issue of how these
users operate within the kitchen, more specifically
in using boiling water. Although statistics show a
significant annual number of burning and scalding
incidents in blind or partially sighted users, the
majority tend to avoid cooking in such a way
altogether.
> Contact Details
Brookdale, Mill Lane, Lower Peover,
Cheshire, WA16 9QX
Liamgardner_1287@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
Pursue interest in Marketing and
Product Design.
My product is designed for the inclusive world and
can fit into any number of kitchen environments.
It helps liberate visually impaired users in an area
where they may have once felt restricted. My
product provides users with a safe and simple
solution to boiling and draining hot or cold food
without having to juggle two utensils over the
kitchen sink. It is unique from existing products as
it uses a lid with a locking mechanism that, through
a simple drop and twist motion, will securely attach
to the drainage insert (middle section). The glass
lid allows the food and water levels of the pan to be
constantly visible. Once the lid has been locked into
place the user can either slowly lift the insert and lid
out from the boiling pan to allow the water to drain
back into the pan or lift it out over the sink. The
cut away section on the side of the drainage insert
allows the food to be poured out onto your plate.
Alternatively the user can simply unlock the lid and
remove the contents using a serving utensil. Both
the main pan handle and the lid handle have been
ergonomically designed to make it as easy and
comfortable as possible for the user to operate the
utensil safely. The vibrant yellow is a stark contrast
from the stainless steel body and makes it easier for
the user to establish a secure contact.

01
Locking ridge, secures
lid to middle section
> 0 2
Serving area, where food
is tipped out
> 0 3
Drainage insert, where
food is cooked/boiled
> 0 4
Ergonomic
polypropylene handle
with rubber thumb grip
and finger ridge on
underside
> 0 5
Aluminium plate on
stainless steel pan,
allows for more efficient
cooking process
> 0 6
‘L’ shaped cut away
that the locking ridge
slots into
> 0 7
Glass lid so the
contents of the pan
are always visible
> 0 8
Heat proof polypropylene
handle with rubber grip
on underside
04
02
03
01
08
07
05
06
33

34
> THOMAS grIFFITHS
BRU
People throughout the UK boil water with a kettle,
and this is a problem. Kettles are inefficient, often
heating more water than required and wasting a
lot of energy. Kettles are stereotypically heavy and
unbalanced causing problems for people such as
the elderly or people with dexterity problems for
example arthritis. Any container filled with boiling
water is potentially dangerous. Removing these
factors makes boiling water safer for all.
“ …to make boiling
water a safe and
efficient process.”
> Contact Details
Lynwood, Llangorse, Brecon,
Powys, LD3 7UA
tomg11@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
In the next few years I’m looking to graduate
Leeds with an MDes, enter the field of design/
teaching and go see the world. Watch this space!
My product is designed to make boiling water a
safe and efficient process. The product is designed
so that it can fit in any surroundings. The clean
smooth shape of the product makes it easy to clean,
ideal for any kitchen. Within the product there are
safety features that increase user well-being when
using the product. The design is unique as it can
be used with a variety of different products from
baby bottles to saucepans. The design is not just
on the outside. Inside the special heating unit heats
up exactly how much is needed, making it very
efficient.

01
Watertank max
capacity 1.6 litres
> 0 2
Touch on off switch
> 0 3
LED lighting and
Cup sensor
> 0 4
Drip tray for all
those spillages
> 0 5
Extendable legs
02
05
03
04
01
35

36
> EMMA HABErTOn
PRODUCT
IDENTIFICATION AID
In most cases, a misidentified product can
be harmless and a personal annoyance, but
misidentified medication or food stuff containing
a common allergen can prove fatal.
This is a problem area for those with degrees of
blindness and sight loss; a user group calculated
to have a population of 2 million. Sight problems
are most common among the elderly, causing the
blind population to increase further as the UK ages.
Product identification can also be problematic for
sufferers of Dyslexia and those with a low reading
age, user groups with a combined population of an
estimated 2.2 million.
In a survey examining label occupation, 26%
of the label occupation of a sample was left
blank for visual effect and branding – space that
could potentially be used to display the product
information more effectively.
“ In most cases, a misidentified
product can be harmless and
a personal annoyance, but
misidentified medication or
food stuff containing a common
allergen can prove fatal.”
> Contact Details
Glen Cottage, 54 Dykes End, Collingham,
Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG23 7LD
emma.haberton@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
Brand and product development
within emotional design.
The information gained through using the device
is acquired from a close range RFID system. Once
the data from the product’s tag is transmitted to
the device, its information will be presented to
the user both visually and audibly as both forms
of feedback have been proven to aid vocabulary
expansion and learning.
The ability to customise the device means various
levels of discretion can be achieved for different
user groups. The device contains a removable
internal tag, acting as a smart card. When detected
upon approach to a RFID enabled store, assistance
can be organised before the user enters – reducing
the user’s inconvenience. The speaker unit can be
removed enabling the user to transform the reader
into a wearable device – providing further discretion
upon customisation.

01
Alphanumeric
display, providing
visual feedback
> 0 2
High contrast tactile
interface
> 0 3
Screw cap containing
removable internal tag
> 0 4
Removable and wearable
speaker device
> 0 5
Tactile operational switch
> 0 6
Ergonomic handle with
texturised surface
02
01
03
06
05
04
37

38
> JAMES HArrISOn
BICYCLE MULTI-TOOL
The purpose of my design project is to improve the
usability, function and the overall design of existing
bicycle multi-tools that are already on the market.
A bicycle multi-tool should allow the user to go out
riding safe in the knowledge that if something were
to break or become loose on their bike then they
would be able to overcome the problem quickly
and efficiently with minimal effort. Existing bicycle
multi-tools however have many areas which could
be improved. The majority of multi-tools on the
market are of a “Swiss army knife” style and have a
number of drawbacks. They are fiddley to use, lack
in leverage, the range of tools available are therefore
only really good for tweaking your
riding setup.
“ …if their bicycle was to break
or a part to become loose then
they would have the means
to be able to overcome the
problem with minimal effort .”
> Contact Details
Fernbank, Bonnings Lane
Barrington, Somerset, TA19 0JN
your email address
> Career Aims
To be successful in the product/graphic
design industries.
My product is designed to be one that the user
will instinctively take with them whenever they go
cycling. It will ultimately give the user peace of mind
so that if their bicycle was to break or a part became
loose, then they would have the means
to be able to overcome the problem with
minimal effort.
The main features of my product include the ability
to mount the multi-tool to the frame of the bike
due to the velcro straps on the back section. This
enables the user to transport the tool around with
them and not have to carry it on their person. The
supplied tools include a socket wrench set which
has a ratchet controlling the direction of torque,
giving the user ample leverage when tackling tight
bolts such as crank bolts. In addition there are a
number of hex keys and spanners, and a spoke
key which means that the tool should be able to be
used on nearly all the bolts on user’s bikes.
The multi-tool is intended to be used with all
genres of bicycles and will hopefully allow users to
make repairs to their bike with minimal effort and
ensure they won’t have to stop riding for the day or
ultimately walk to their destination.

01
Top Lid is hinged and
closes to lock the wrench
into main casing
> 0 2
Lower section of
top lid covers over a
compartment containing
spoke key
> 0 3
Front compartment
lid hinges backwards
revealing removable hex
keys and spanners
> 0 4
Bottom lid hinges open
to reveal spaces for 3
wrench sockets
> 0 5
Foldable wrench is
stored on the back of the
multi-tool casing
> 0 6
Depression in back
section of the casing
holds the wrench handle
securely to the multi-tool
06
05
01
04
02
03
39

40
> MArK HArrISOn STAnTOn
THE ‘EzEE’
RECYCLING BIN
A recent study has shown that UK households only
recycle around a quarter of their rubbish. Recycling
collections vary dramatically across the country,
with many residents struggling to establish a routine
to recycle in their neighbourhood. The majority also
do not understand which materials can be recycled,
and when this is combined with the requirement
for numerous separate bins within the home many
people do not want to make the effort to sort their
waste at all.
My product has been designed to save space
within the kitchen, whilst also encouraging the
user to compress or compact their waste before
placing it inside the bin. Information informs the
user how they should separate their household
waste, and also which types of plastic can currently
be recycled in their area. The bin has also been
traditionally styled to ensure that it will not look out
of place in kitchens across the UK.
“ Encourage users to
correctly recycle more
within their home.”
> Contact Details
The Cottage, Lane End, Hambledon,
Surrey, Gu8 4HD
mark@markhs.co.uk
www.markhs.co.uk
> Career Aims
A challenging and varied career within
the sustainable design industry.
A common issue with bins is the unpleasant odours
that usually accompany the contents within. In
my product each lid features a clip on the inner
side where replaceable freshening discs may be
attached. These discs are available in a variety
of different fragrances, which will counteract any
unpleasant odours that may be emitted from the
waste inside.
Finally to ensure easy emptying and cleaning of the
bin each storage compartment is removable. This
removes the requirement to have bin liners, as each
compartment can simply be washed with ease
if needed. Because some users will still prefer to
utilise liners for some types of waste the containers
have been designed so that standard shopping
bags will suffice.
In summary my design provides a realistic and
simple product that will encourage users to
correctly recycle more within their home, allowing
them to incorporate recycling into their daily lifestyle
and making them feel personally rewarded at the
same time.

01
Slot in the bin door
for compacted card
and paper
> 0 2
Centre piece raises
up to show can and
bottle crusher
> 0 3
Separate lids for
different materials
> 0 3
Separate lids for Plastic,
Cans, Glass and Non-
Recyclable waste
> 0 4
Replaceable ‘freshening
discs’ are fixed under
each lid to counteract
unpleasant odours
> 0 5
Below each lid a chute
carries waste to separate
containers below, hiding
it from view
> 0 6
Removable container
with storage divides
for waste
> 0 7
Removable container
for compacted paper
and card
01
04
02
03
05
06
07
41

42
> yASSEr HASSAn
RE-DESIGN OF THE
MUSIC CD CASE
Music CD cases/packaging have been the same
for a very long time. They may present the artwork
in a nice way but, there are a lot of problems
associated with the packaging.
One of the biggest problems facing the original
jewel CD case is that it tends to break very easily,
especially if handled in a vigorous manner. Another
problem is its durability. The case is very prone to
breaking with slightest impact, especially the top
and bottom faces which the artwork lies beneath.
Adding to that, the old CD poses a very delicate
area. This area is very important as it aids in rotating
the top part of the package to show the CD and
make it available to use. However, this area tends to
break easily and quickly. In doing so, the user will
then lose the top part of the package and eventually
will lose the CD, as it may fall out of the case and get
lost or ruined.
“ Idea is to give music CDs a package that
will make them distinct in the market.
They are carrying art and therefore have
to stand out next to normal cases.”
> Contact Details
16 York Place, Leeds,
West Yorkshire, LS1 2EU
efy5yaks@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
Role in management (brand, design
or construction)
My product is designed to primarily add value to
what it is housing – a music CD. The whole idea is
to give music CDs a package that will make them
distinct in the market. This is because the packages
are carrying art and therefore have to stand out
compared to a normal CD case. The product is
also more convenient to use as it offers better
ergonomic features. Adding to that, the user will
not have to worry about the case breaking or losing
parts because of the way it is designed. The top
and bottom parts can be put together and taken
apart easily.
The material used for the case is the same one
that is used to package DvDs. This material was
used because of the durable properties it acquires,
making it resistant towards heavy impact.
Finally, the way the case opens and closes is much
easier than the old CD case as the top part of the
case slides to show the CD housed in the bottom
part of the case.

01
Area to push and slide
upper part of case
> 0 2
Ridges added for better
grip and ergonomics
> 0 3
Area on the side for artist
and album names
> 0 4
Album artwork is placed
here as a sticker
04
01
03
02
43

44
> BEn HOLLIngS-TEnnAnT
GLUCO-SPORT
200 million people worldwide have diabetes. If
diabetes is not monitored and controlled then it can
lead to more serious conditions such as blindness,
kidney failure and amputation. Research has
proven that if diabetics exercise regularly and eat
healthily, their condition is much less likely to cause
any serious problems. Diabetics should test their
blood glucose levels 5 times a day, however 95% of
diabetics fail to do this because of the need to draw
blood every time they test themselves. The death
rate for diabetes has risen by 22% since 1990. This
is because of increasing problems with obesity and
lack of individual awareness to how to control their
condition. It is estimated that 1 in 3 diabetics are
actually unaware of their condition and therefore
fail to monitor and control their condition. There is
a gap in the market for a product that can make the
life of a person with diabetes much safer.
“ Diabetics should test their blood
glucose levels 5 times a day, however
95% of diabetics fail to do this because
of the need to draw blood every time
they test themselves.”
> Contact Details
20 Endsleigh Grove, Lancaster,
Lancashire, LA12TX
mn06bcfh@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
To work for a well established company, that
provides a graduate training scheme, that can
set me up for a career in design and marketing.
My product is designed to be a part of everyday
life. There are 2 parts to my product. The 1st part
is a blood-glucose and heart rate monitor which
straps around the upper arm and uses Glucon’s
Aprise technology to monitor blood glucose levels
in real time without the need to draw blood. When
blood-glucose levels become too low or too high the
device will vibrate and alert the user. The 2nd part is
an MP3 player and nutritional planner that interacts
with the other device and is marketed to be sporty
to draw away any stigma of it being a product
related to diabetes. The user can input their dietary
information into the device and the product will
provide the user with feedback for example through
graphs regarding their dietary intake, heart rate and
blood glucose levels. The user can store information
such as reminders for medical appointments and
emergency contact information. The Mp3 device
can clip onto a belt/pocket or simply be carried in
the user’s pocket.

01
Mp3/nutritional planner
> 0 2
Speakers
> 0 3
LED
> 0 4
volume control
> 0 5
Blood glucose/heart rate
monitor
> 0 6
Hole for strap
01 03
02
04
05
06
45

46
> HAnnA HOLLOWAy
SCORPIUS SWEEPER
The lack of dexterity amongst the third age means
maintaining a clean home is a challenge. Collecting
dirt from the floor or below table height is difficult
when physical movement is restricted. Getting
under things involves bending down or kneeling,
manoeuvring around obstacles requires reaching
and disposing dirt occupies both hands. These
are just some factors proved uncomfortable even
painful for not only arthritic users, also pregnant,
tall and users with breakages. The third age
population is one of the largest changing
demographics to consider.
“ The proportion of the UK population over 65 years old
is 15% compared to 11% in 1951 and 5% in 1911.”
Centre of Economic Policy Research 2008. This
increase poses an extending third age market,
equivalent to the youth market. This is challenging
for Britain socially and economically, therefore
prolonging independence is a step forward.
“ An inclusive design combining
the dustpan and brush with a
broom to assist arthritic users.”
> Contact Details
Woodview Cottage, Wood Lane, Horton,
Bristol, BS37 6PG
hannaholloway@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To continue to create innovative
products which can truly benefit
users and make a difference.
My product is designed to combine the dustpan
and brush and the broom reducing the amount of
tools needed within a typical household. Its organic
shape inspired by the geometry of a scorpion’s
body provides easy access under tables or chairs
and hooks around obstacles preventing the user
bending. The user sweeps dirt into a pile with
the option of a short handle for small, awkward
floor areas such as the stairs and a longer handle
for large floor areas. There are two momentary
switches positioned at the end of each handle to
activate suction inside the brush head making this
product suitable for hard floors and small areas
of soft floors. The suction collects the dirt pile into
a dust collector that detaches from the body for
emptying into the bin. My main aim was to keep
weight to a minimum therefore battery life is limited
to 45 minutes when suction is in use, however
testing proved that the momentary switches
encouraged users not to activate the suction
constantly throughout the cleaning process.

01
Momentary switches
to activate suction
positioned on easy
grip handles
> 0 2
Snap fits to secure
handle for close contact
use and storage
> 0 3
Dust collector
> 0 4
Low level suitable
for accessing under
cabinets and small gaps
> 0 5
Soft bristles for hard
floors and coarse bristles
for soft floors
05
03
01
04
02
47

48
SOPHIE HOUgH
FRIDGE FRIEND
“ One third of British food is thrown away.” “40%
of groceries can be lost before they are consumed
due to poor storage, processing and transport…
The average household could save around £420
a year by not throwing away 4.1 million tonnes of
food that could have been eaten.”
Fridge Friend is a storage/organisation solution for
the refrigerator to prevent food waste. Food, which
is kept in the refrigerator is often wasted, due to
food being forgotten about, mainly because the
user is unable to clearly visualise the contents of the
refrigerator other than products which are situated
at the front of each shelf. This causes food items to
be forgotten about until they have exceeded their
use by date and become inedible.
New clever fridges have now been introduced on
the market which tell the user, through technology,
the contents of their refrigerator, they can even
offer additional functions such as a meal planner.
However this can only be acquired through the
purchase of a new refrigerator and this means the
user is still unable to visualise clearly the contents
of their refrigerator. Fridge Friend offers users the
ability to adapt their existing refrigerators rather than
“ The average household could save
around £420 a year and not contribute
to 4.1 million tonnes of food thrown away
annually that could have been eaten.”
> Contact Details
1 Hall Lee Drive, Westhoughton,
Bolton, BL53EQ
mn06seh@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
A career within brand management,
product marketing or advertisement.
purchase a new refrigerator therefore reducing
the number of refrigerators disposed of.
The Fridge Friend solution forces the user to
rotate the food stock within the refrigerator. Three
Tupperware style containers situated within a unit
sits within the refrigerator. The containers keep food
fresher for longer, prevent cross contamination of
food groups and rotate food products within them.
As the user removes the bottom container the two
containers above drop down and the container
removed is replaced into the top of the unit. This
causes rotation of food stock whilst preventing food
from being forgotten about or lost at the back of the
refrigerator. The unit also incorporates a rotating
top shelf into the unit suitable for storing jars and
bottles as well as a grab section of the unit suitable
for storing items which the user would use all the
time such as butter.
The Fridge Friend has the potential to be
used in a variety of different ways by a variety
of different users.

01
Sealed Containers
> 0 2
Rotating top shelf
(suitable for sauces etc)
> 0 3
Runners aid rotation
> 0 3
Dampeners (cushion
impact when containers
drop down)
> 0 4
Grab Shelf (easy access
to items used a lot)
> 0 5
Air holes (aid circulation
of cold air around unit)
01
02
04
03
06
05
49

50
> CHrIS HUggInS
WIRELESS MUSIC
MEDIA FORMAT
As technology has developed, music ownership
has become progressively less visible and, with
MP3s and iTunes, music collections are no longer
something people display, treasure or take pride in.
For many, modern music ownership consists of a
virtual store of thousands of MP3s on a computer
or portable player and no physical covers, cases,
sleeves or artwork that made music such a
desirable and visual collectible in the past. Fewer
people now share their listening experience as
sharing digital files has become so easy – this has
made music a private experience, reducing the
potential for discovering new music and removing
the social side of the listening experience.
The WiPak is a new physical album format that
users can collect, display and use to visually
enhance their music listening experience. It retains
the visual aspects of older music formats that have
been lost in the proliferation of MP3 downloads
by providing the artists or record labels with the
opportunity to give their fans additional lyrics,
photography, artwork and music videos to enjoy
with the music.
“ The WiPak is a new physical album format
that users can collect, display, and use to
visually enhance their listening experience.”
> Contact Details
50 Mayes Lane, Ramsey,
Essex, CO12 5EJ
chris_huggins@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To work for a product design consultancy.
In addition to the added visual content, the WiPak
offers extra convenience by allowing users to
instantly download their music to a wide range of
devices, such as computers, mobile phones and
televisions simply by placing it within 20cm of the
device. Placing them together again will begin
automatic playback of the album tracks or music
videos, encouraging the user to interact with and
enjoy the visual content inside the WiPak whilst
they listen. They can still choose to select the tracks
from iTunes if desired as the music is permanently
downloaded to the device.
There are three different levels of visual content
available to artists to target different types of user
and to compete with current leading formats on
price. The PosterPak, BookPak and videoPak are
intended to compete with MP3 downloads, CD
albums and music DvDs, whilst offering the user
more to look at, added convenience and something
physical they can collect, display and enjoy.

01
PosterPak
> 0 2
Unfolding the
PosterPak displays
lyrics and artwork
> 0 3
The unfolded poster
> 0 4
The BookPak and sleeve
> 0 5
The videoPak case,
sleeve and book
01 02 03
04
05
51

52
> PATrICK HUTTOn
TAC-TORCH
The aim of this project is to develop a torch
specifically for the frontline infantry soldier. Generally
a soldier will use a torch either A) designed for the
civilian market or B) designed for the military in
general, not specifically infantry. Most soldiers will
use a Mag Lite or an angle head torch in the field,
neither fulfill the job in hand sufficiently, failing
in areas such as robustness, inability to change
between red and white light and accidentally turning
on in the combat jacket etc. From my personal
experience on exercise and a close collaboration with
soldiers to develop this torch, this project addresses
these problems among others to deliver a design that
could potentially save lives of troops on operations.
“ This project addresses these problems
to deliver a design that could potentially
save the lives of troops on operations.”
> Contact Details
69 Manor Drive, Leeds,
Yorkshire, LS6 1DD
paddyhut@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
Designer for outdoor/defense related products
after a short term officer commission in the Army.
The Tac-Torch is designed to give the soldier as
much manipulation over the light coming from his
torch as possible. This is so that it suits whatever
situation from map reading tactically to storming
a building. It is also designed to be hard wearing,
robust and ergonomic.
The Tac-Torch has the ability to switch between
Red (Tactical) and White light from the press of a
button, dim or brighten the light produced through
a slider at the top, and it also has a master on/
off button on the side to help stop it accidentally
switching on in the combat jacket. It has also
been developed with consideration going in to its
potential surroundings, from hot arid climates to
freezing arctic conditions. The outer Nylon shell
has been coated with an elastomer to reduce noise
coefficient when dropped and give a dull dark
(tactical) appearance. Even the torch’s shape plays
an important role, being flat it prevents any corners
digging into the chest of the soldier if he needs to
dive to the ground. In general it should be suited to
all operational climates.

01
Switches for red
and white light
> 0 2
LED’s
> 0 3
Printed circuit board
> 0 4
Potentiometer (slider for
dimming or brightening)
> 0 5
On/Off button
> 0 6
Battery holders
> 0 7
Torch in context
05
07
06
04
03
02
01
53

54
> nICK JOHnSOn
THE PENGUIN
KETTLE
The kettle is the principal method used to boil water
for consumption in many developing countries;
around 97% of UK households own a kettle.
Despite their popularity many current kettles are
very inefficient to use, with approximately 12,500L
of water and 1.27billion kWh of electricity wasted
through kettle use each year in the UK alone.
However, it is not the technology of a kettle that
makes it inefficient, it’s the way that the user
interacts with it.
Inefficient use is caused by poor design and bad
user habits; 87% of users overfill their kettle every
time they use it. Similarly, 46% of users regularly
forget that they have boiled a kettle, and the hot
water is not used. Users are also inefficient in the
water filling process, with large volumes of water
wasted as they are spilt directly down the sink.
By improving interaction between user and kettle,
inefficient use can be nullified, and the valuable
resources of clean water and electricity can
be saved.
“ It is not the technology of a kettle
that makes it inefficient, it’s the
way that the user interacts with it.”
> Contact Details
80 Appleton Gate, Newark
Notts, NG24 1LR
> Career Aims
Design consultancy is the goal; in the
long run ideally freelance design.
The Penguin is an innovative new kettle that
uses smart design to improve user interaction
with the product.
The key feature of the product is its water level
indication. The level scale is on the inside of the
water chamber, rather than reading through a
window on the outside, making it much easier to
accurately read the water level. The angled base of
the kettle produces a variable scale, with the largest
gaps at the lower end, making it easiest to measure
smaller volumes of water. The Penguin features
a ‘beak’ spout; this prevents water being poured
directly down the spout, eliminating the inefficient
habit of filling without opening the lid. The product
uses thermochromic technology to change from
its regular white colour to a vibrant red as the water
heats up inside; making the user aware that their
water is ready.
The Penguin will feel like little change from using
your current kettle, but the smart design will
intuitively improve user interaction, and make
boiling water for consumption more efficient.

01
‘Beak’ shaped spout
> 0 2
Angled base produces
variable water level scale
> 0 3
Small, unobtrusive
power base
> 0 4
Thermochromic
pigments change colour
as the water reaches
boiling point
04
02
01
03
55

56
> Alex killeAvy
zEBRA
ERGONOMIC
MICROWAvE
Technology is an area that has seen huge advances
in the last 30 years, and although enabling most
people to go about their daily lives in a much more
convenient way it is an area that has always posed
problems for the elderly population. Technological
devices are often seen as intimidating by the elderly,
with small difficult to use controls and interfaces
only compounding the problem.
Arthritis, poor eyesight, difficulties with fine motor
control and general lack of confidence are all
problems that cause the elderly to struggle when
using technology, and these are problems I have
tried to overcome with my product, a microwave
designed from an ergonomic perspective.
The microwave operates using only two power
levels, these being defrost and full power. After
research I established that over 80% of the time
these are the only power levels used, and through
limiting the microwave to these two levels confusion
is reduced.
To enable easier reading of the display and use of
the control panel the whole face of the microwave
is angled backward, leaving these at an optimum
“ Technological devices are
often seen as intimidating by the
elderly, with small difficult to
use controls and interfaces only
compounding the problem.”
> Contact Details
299 London Road, Appleton, Warrington,
Cheshire, WA4 5JB
Defunct@Live.co.uk
> Career Aims
To own and run my own record label.
viewing angle. Displays were a major problem with
many standard microwaves, and this is something
that has been overcome using a combination of
both analogue and digital display styles to show
time remaining.
Controls for the time are kept simple and easy to
use with an outer ring used to set minutes and an
inner ring to set seconds, using finger recesses
rather than raised grips to aid those with arthritis
and fine motor control problems.
Another major feature of the design is that of
a downward opening door. This enables major
advantages over a standard design due to allowing
easier access to food and enabling the food to be
pulled onto the folded down door before lifting,
eliminating problems caused by strength needed to
lift with arms outstretched.
These however are all benefits that not only help the
elderly but also the rest of the population, and I feel
that this product is truly inclusive in its design with
benefits for all.

01
Angled face, places
controls and screen at
optimum viewing angle
> 0 2
Door opens down rather
than out, allowing easy
access and lifting of food
> 0 3
Highly visible screen
incorporating
advantages of both
analogue and digital
displays
> 0 4
Two power settings –
Defrost/Full
> 0 5
Minutes
> 0 6
Seconds
> 0 7
Start/Stop
> 0 8
Cancel
02
01
04
03
05
06
07
08
57

58
> CHLOE LE POIDEVIn
BACK SAvER SPADE
Anyone with a garden will know what a pain digging
up flower beds can be with a standard garden
spade. Levering soil up, bending and trying to grip
a small spade handle with both hands can cause
strains and lower back injury.
Over 2/3 of people experience back pain when
digging in the garden. With a recent trend developing
to ‘grow your own’ it is important to ensure that
gardening is accessible to as many people as
possible. This inclusive product sets out to make
turning flower beds and domestic digging easier.
The Back Saver Spade is an innovation amongst the
hundreds of budget spades available on the market.
Such is the price war, few companies have pushed
R and D or innovation in spade design.
Research shows that although a standard spade
can work effectively and get the job done, its form
does not instigate correct use. It is this incorrect use
such as bending the back rather than the knees
and gripping the shaft too far away from the soil
weight that can cause back problems.
“ …the organic, ergonomic
form and innovative pivot ball
takes pain out of gardening…”
> Contact Details
La Carriere, Carriere Lane, vale,
Guernsey, GY3 5QJ
chloe.lepoidevin@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To pursue a career in sustainable design or
marketing and one day set up my own business.
The Back Saver Spade tackles the problem in
a novel way producing an easy to use, durable,
effective digging tool that reduces the risk of injury to
the user. The heel grip handle, indicator grips, lifted
curve shaft and easy pivot ball of the Back Saver
Spade means that its form affords correct use.
The ball smoothly pivots on the ground lifting soil
upwards, breaking roots which if left attached can
lead to further strain to the user upon lifting.
The wide grip handle enables two hands to securely
grip, giving a strong and safe hold so that the
spade can be levered backwards to pivot on the
ball. You don’t even have to lift the spade if you
don’t want to as turning soil can be done by simply
twisting the handles, causing the ball to pivot and
dump the soil either left or right. The stainless
steel body is 100% recyclable, corrosion resistant
and extremely durable. The Back Saver Spade
combines pioneering features including an organic,
ergonomic form and innovative pivot ball to take the
pain out of gardening.

01
Heel grip enables user
to lock arm when lifting
soil to help reduce injury
and strain
> 0 2
Easy grip wide
ergonomic handle
enables user to grip
securely with both hands
> 0 3
Curved shaft improves
leverage and reduces
bending to shaft level
> 0 4
Indicative grips improve
comfort and dictate how
the spade is used
> 0 5
Curved sharpened
spade blade ensures it
cuts though soil easily
and keeps the soil on
the blade
> 0 6
Pivot ball acts as a pivot
point, smoothly lifting
soil from the ground with
minimal effort
> 0 7
Stainless steel body
ensures maximum
corrosion resistance
01
03
02
06
07
04
05
59

60
> rOBErT LynCH
PORTABLE HOME
CONTROL DEvICE
“ The interface display
is user friendly and
easy to learn, helping
to improve issues of
acceptance from the
target market.”
Currently the environmental control market is one
which is fairly specialised and generic solutions
are not widely available. Devices exist for specific
disabilities but can often limit the amount of users
by being too technical, unappealing and restrictive.
Arthritis and osteoporosis are extremely common
conditions that affect over 8 million people within
the UK alone. These conditions prevent sufferers
from carrying out seemingly easy tasks, due to
severe joint pain and discomfort they experience.
My product is designed to assist these types of
user with the operation of a selectable amount of
electrical appliances within or around their home
via radio and infrared communication. This could
include the operation of Tv, DvD players, lighting,
security, heating or practically any electrical
appliance plugged into radio receiver modules.
> Contact Details
12 High Street, Corby Glen, Nr Grantham,
Lincolnshire, NG33 4LX
bob_lynch88@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To work within a leading and innovative
graphic design firm.
It incorporates a touchscreen, flexible e-ink display,
housed within a neoprene sleeve allowing for
greater portability. The interface display is user
friendly and easy to learn, helping to improve issues
of acceptance from the target market.
Features included will also help to make their
disabilities more bearable, improving mobility and
health via exercise and nutritional information
and providing mental stimulation in the form of
interactive applications.
Such a device could prevent unnecessary injuries
caused by reaching for awkward switches, or even
moving around the house to operate appliances. By
helping to prevent such injuries and inconvenience
the NHS could potentially save millions of pounds
a year in health costs related to hospital treatment
and community health care. With funding available
via disability grants, such a product would be
a viable solution for thousands of arthritis and
osteoporosis sufferers across the UK.

01
Easy to change AA
battery pack
> 0 2
Comfortable grip
> 0 3
Soft rubber at ends
of device to cushion
inevitable falls and
bumps
> 0 4
Neoprene sleeve houses
touchscreen and e-ink
paper display
> 0 5
Touchscreen interface,
user interaction
cushioned by neoprene
back
> 0 6
Clear, easy to
understand interface
allows simple control of
various appliances
> 0 7
Flexible e-ink display
housed inside sleeve,
which wraps around
device to make portable
> 0 8
Main ‘handle’ houses
electronic circuitry and
battery pack
02
01
03
08
04
07
05
06
61

62
> SArAH MOrLEy
PEDALOW
Multiple Sclerosis affects approximately 85,000
people in the UK alone. The degenerative nature
of the disease often affects both the physical
and cognitive aspects of the human system. The
impact on those living with the disease varies
dramatically, leaving some unable to walk and
others completely capable to maintain a ‘normal’
lifestyle. Irrespective of the individuals’ capabilities,
exercise is highly recommended to stimulate the
muscles and increase blood circulation. This is
especially important for maintaining mobility in
the lower limbs, alongside strength and dexterity
in the upper limbs.
“ Stimulates various
muscles to increase
mobility and strength
in MS patients.”
> Contact Details
Chudleigh House, Little Addington,
Northants, NN14 4BD
s_morley00@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To develop the design skills I’ve learnt on
Product Design within marketing, branding
and packaging industries.
The Pedalow is an investment for the user as it
caters for their individual needs via a magnetic
resistive system which allows users to adjust
the levels of difficulty depending on their level of
capability. The simplicity of the user interface also
caters for a loss of dexterity and visual impairments;
all common ailments amongst most Multiple
Sclerosis patients.
Functionality and usability are the predominant
aims of the product in order to comply with the
requirements of prospective users. Aesthetics are
also a priority amongst users, who expressed a
dislike for current products aimed at those less able
given their bulky, unattractive form. The Pedalow
is an example of inclusive design, as the needs
of the user have driven the development of the
design, resulting in a product that has a significant
advantage over its competitors.

01
Pedal platform for the
user’s feet to exercise
lower limbs
> 0 2
Handle allows the device
to be moved easily,
either carried as a unit
or detached to pull the
device on the floor
> 03
Pedals for the user’s
hands to exercise
upper limbs
> 0 4
Detachable Remote
Control to prevent the
user straining to adjust
the resistance
> 0 5
Foot Pedal brakes the
wheels at the base of
the Pedalow to prevent
movement during use
01
02
03
04
05
63

64
> JOSH nEWCOMBE
“ DUAL” SPORTS
NUTRITION UNIT
“ The system is designed
as a lifestyle product, to
enhance and simplify the
user’s fitness routine.”
Sports nutrition is a large and forever expanding
market. Globally this market is worth a staggering
$27.2billion. A niche in this market has become
apparent. Fitness fanatics and professional athletes
consume a variety of different sports supplements
to enhance sporting performance. However the
area within the transportation of these supplements
is where the niche in the market lies. The sports
supplementation market is crying out for a product
that can hold, transport, mix and access two
different supplements simultaneously whilst further
improving upon current vessels’ design faults.
> Contact Details
4 Duncock Lane, Elsworth
Cambridge, CB23 4JL
Email: mn06jn@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
Create successful start-up company
within the product design field.
The Dual sports nutrition system is an innovative
new product set to dominate the sports vessel
market. The system is designed as a lifestyle
product, to enhance and simplify the user’s fitness
routine. The product holds up to two supplements
simultaneously whilst keeping both supplements
separate from each other, in one unique system
eliminating the hassle of transporting up to two
vessels. Liquid flow is drastically improved due to
the ergonomic appearance, leakproof seals and
ergonomically designed spout. This system proves
easy to transport when in use or not. Each section
can be attached and unattached with ease using a
simple snap fit mechanism. However the dominant
feature of this system is the overall aesthetic. By
using the kansei technique amongst others, a
design has been generated that is visually appealing
to the target market whilst maintaining functionality.

01
Retractable spout, for
improved liquid flow
> 0 2
Twisting top lid section.
Twists to maintain and
prevent liquid flow
> 0 3
Twisting rear lid section.
Attaches to supplement
compartments via screw
thread
> 0 4
Supplement
compartment one
> 0 5
Rubber grips
> 0 6
Supplement
compartment two
> 0 7
Internal Snap fits for
both compartments.
Attaches and unattaches
each compartment
04
01
03
07
06
05
02
65

66
> AnDrEW PETO
SYFN
“ Inspired by the principles of a
siphon system and integrates
the modern elements of a dual
flush button operation and
modern design.”
60% of all water used throughout the average
household quite literally goes down the toilet. This
is a massive amount of the country’s resources of
drinkable water. There are currently two types of
system that activate the flush in a toilet. The first is
the handle operated siphon system, a design that
has been used for over a hundred years with proven
reliability and durability. The second is the much
more modern dual flush activated valve system
which, due to the nature of its seal based design, is
prone to unreliability and leaking. A recent survey
discovered that potentially one in every five valve
systems in the USA is leaking.
> Contact Details
31 Well Lane, Newton, Chester
Cheshire, CH2 2HL
andypeto@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
To see a product on the shelf in a shop
that I have had a part in designing.
The syfn is inspired by the principles of a siphon
system and integrates the modern elements of a
dual flush button operation and modern design,
demanded by today’s market. It is a design based
on the fundamental mechanics of water pressure,
surface tension and weight distribution. The simple
mechanisms are designed to minimise faults and
cost and maximise reliability and durability. It is
designed to fit into any existing cistern and can be
simply assembled and fitted by even the most DIY
shy consumer.
The design of the button was created from much
user testing and experimentation. The colours
reflect the varying depths of water being used
by the consumer whilst the raised shape of the
smaller flush encourages the user to reduce their
water consumption.
The result is a dual flush button operated system
with greatly increased water efficiency that will not
only save the consumer money but also reduce the
consumption of the increasingly limited resource
of clean water.

01
Arms to raise platform
and lift water
> 0 2
Plug to regulate point at
which air interrupts the
siphon
> 0 3
Small Flush button
> 0 4
Large Flush button
02
01
03
04
67

68
> ALEx rOBErTS
MOTORCYCLE NECK
PROTECTOR
“ …the airbag inflates up and
around the neck, which will
cushion the user’s neck as
it is forced back.”
I have been designing a solution to battle the
increasing amount of injuries and fatalities that
motorcyclists sustain to the cervical part of the
spine during an accident. This area has always been
recognized as a black spot and there have already
been various attempts at introducing such a solution
to the market, at extremely high cost. Another
aspect that I had to consider was the paramedics
who would be arriving to the scene and would also
be interacting with the product, therefore it was
imperative that the product wouldn’t get in the way
of the paramedics’ normal routine but also worked
effectively at reducing the impact of the accident.
> Contact Details
The Cottage Waldly, Ashbourne,
Derbyshire, DE6 5LR
mn06atmr@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
A career in sustainable product design.
My design uses existing solutions (airbag
technology) and implements them into a product
located on the user’s upper back. It is attached with
straps that come over the shoulders and around the
chest, with an easy release clip joining the straps
at the front. To activate the airbag in the event of
a crash, the design uses a low budget solution to
save on cost. Attached to the activation pin on the
back is a cord which simply clips onto the user’s
ignition key effectively acting as an anchor point. In
the event of a crash when the rider falls off the bike
the cord will become taut, pulling the pin out which
activates the ignitor. Within the ignitor is a 5ml
pellet of sodium Azide which, when ignited, a rapid
reaction will take place which releases nitrogen
gas, the gas is then filtered preventing the harmful
gases from being released. The gas force from the
reaction inflates the airbag which forces the top off,
the airbag will then inflate within 30milliseconds
from activation. The shape of the airbag inflates up
and around the neck, which will cushion the user’s
neck as it is forced back.

01
Activation pin
> 0 2
Ignitor unit with filters
> 0 3
Airbag in its deflated
form
> 0 4
Padded cushion for
shoulder blades
> 0 5
ventilation holes
> 0 6
Straps
> 0 7
Cap
01
07
02
05
06
04
03
69

70
> SAMUEL rOCK
SODIS DUAL
Access to clean, drinkable water is regarded as
a basic and essential ingredient to good health,
successful education, and economic productivity;
yet over one billion people across the world lack
access to clean water. The water that is available
contains deadly pathogens, which cause diarrhoea
and cholera, and are alongside malaria and AIDS
as the world’s most lethal diseases. From diarrhoea
alone, around 6000 people die every day, of which
around 80% are children under 5 years old. If the
water was simply boiled or purified in some way
then these statistics would be dramatically reduced.
The most economical way to solve this is the use of
Solar Water Disinfection (SODIS). SODIS is a simple
treatment to water which uses solar radiation to
inactivate and destroy 99.9% of pathogens present
in the water. Contaminated water is placed in PET
or LDPE transparent bottles and left in the sunlight
for approximately 6 – 8 hours. In this time the
Uv rays from the sun, combined with heat, work
together to leave the water completely drinkable.
The problem is that SODIS has not been as
widely adopted as you might expect for such an
economical and ecological process.
“ The SODIS Dual has been designed
to collect, protect, and disinfect.”
> Contact Details
38 Coppice Avenue, Harrogate,
North Yorkshire, HG1 2DL
sam.rock@live.co.uk
> Career Aims
To be an internationally recognised
and respected creative designer.
The SODIS Dual is unique in that, unlike common
SODIS products (generally PET drinks bottles),
it completely protects the important transparent
exposure surfaces by incorporating a hinged
opening mechanism, like that of a briefcase, which
prevents damage from the external environment
during transportation and storage. When the
exposure surfaces become scratched or dirty,
the efficiency of SODIS is dramatically reduced,
resulting in users having to replace their units and
ultimately becoming dissatisfied with the process.
Along with providing the user with multiple choices
when transporting the water, and increasing the
speed of disinfection, the 6 litre SODIS Dual aims
to create interest and intrigue with its strong brand
image, individual form and novel functionality.
In fulfilling these requirements and at a cost of less
than $2, the SODIS Dual can become the catalyst
that dynamically launches Solar Water Disinfection
into the forefront of global awareness and provides
millions with a sustainable and feasible solution to a
major worldwide problem.

01
Transparent exposure
surface
> 0 2
Living hinge
> 0 3
Snap fits keep brackets
locked in and Dual
closed until time for
disinfection
> 0 4
Ergonomic handle
with various options
for carrying
> 0 5
Individual and exciting
form to attract interest
> 0 6
Brand image and logo
to help promote SODIS
> 0 7
Thin tank with a high
surface area to increase
rate of disinfection
04
07
05
06
01
02
03
71

72
> TIFFAny rODDIS
ORBITAL
“ Orbital is designed with
user behavior in mind
to ensure every wash is
energy efficient.”
Washing machines are large consumers of
domestic energy and a large amount of this energy
wastage is due to users’ bad laundry practices
such as incorrect detergent dosing, washing at
unnecessarily high washing temperatures and
semi-full load washing.
User behaviour has a significant determination on
a product’s environmental impact, as it is the user’s
decisions and habits that have a major effect on the
energy and other resources the product uses.
Orbital is a new sustainable washing machine which
is designed with user behavior in mind to ensure
every wash is energy efficient.
> Contact Details
1 Charlton Brook Crescent, Chapeltown
Sheffield, S35 2XR
tiffanyroddis@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
To work in a design consultancy focused
in designing sustainable products.
Orbital is able to store a large amount of detergent
eliminating the user’s task of applying detergent
every time they wash their clothes. The detergent
container is designed to release the correct amount
of detergent by a push of a button.
The drum is designed in the shape of a ball which
pivots on two axes allowing clothes to move in
different directions for a more efficient wash. The
drum can also be removed from the washing
machine basket allowing easy loading and unloading
of clothes and be used as a washing basket.
Each stage of the washing process has been
designed with maximum usability in mind to
ensure sustainability.

01
The detergent container
is designed to release
the correct amount of
detergent by a push of
a button
> 0 2
The drum is designed
in the shape of a ball
allowing clothes to move
in different directions
> 0 3
The drum is able to be
taken out of the washing
machine and be used as
a washing basket
03
01
02
73

74
> ELIzABETH SAyErS
THERMO GUARD
The death toll in England and Wales 2006/07 due
to the cold weather during winter was in excess
of 24,000, 90% of these being 65 or over. This is
mainly to do with the fact that pensioners are not
provided with enough insulation or support to keep
their houses warm in the colder months. At least
2.1 million over 60’s are living in a ‘non-decent
home’, 90,000 of which are 75+… equalling 31%
of the age group. 73% of all non-decent homes lack
the effective insulation or heating required to meet
the thermal comfort criterion… one of the resulting
factors of this is the huge death toll due to the cold
amongst the elderly. This situation is felt to be a
national scandal within our society.
Lack of awareness and understanding is a major
contributing factor to this high statistic which was
discovered through extensive research. It has
been proved that at an elderly age people become
less aware of their surrounding environment and
therefore less able to respond to it accordingly. To
overcome this problem successfully I felt it was
essential to acknowledge the problem of awareness.
“ The death toll in England and Wales
2006/07 due to the cold weather
during winter was in excess of 24,000,
90% of these being 65 or over…”
> Contact Details
Sunnycroft, Middle Street
Kilham, Driffield, East Yorkshire
elizabeth.sayers@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
I hope to be involved with sustainable
product development.
My product has similar features to other related
products on the market but it has been designed
with creating awareness for the elderly user in mind.
Thermo Guard is a product which integrates 3 vital
components; a cold alarm system, a temperature
extremes sensor and glowing LEDs indicating
temperature. The cold alarm within Thermo
Guard alerts the elderly user when critically low
temperatures are reached within the home through
flashing lights and a buzzer. The temperature
extremes sensor monitors the temperature in the
surrounding environment and sends messages to
a base care station giving them an indication to the
temperature within a particular elderly person’s
home, allowing them to take the required action.
The glowing LEDs indicate the temperature of the
surrounding environment by glowing colours that
would be recognised with certain temperatures,
such as red LEDs for a warm environment and blue
LEDs for a cold environment.
All these features integrated into one simple
product, allow the elderly to be responsible for
their own environmental temperature whilst still
receiving help when necessary from a watchful
eye in the background.

01
Translucent head
which allows lights
to glow through
> 0 2
Push button to
silence alarm
> 0 3
Holes for ventilation
and to release sound
> 0 4
Wall mounting hole
> 0 5
Lowered area for
electronics to fit
> 0 6
Ridge to slot into the
front piece to secure
them together
03
01
02
04
05
06
75

76
> ADrIAnO STAFFIErI
CARDIAC
ARRHYTHMIA
MONITORING DEvICE
Heart problems and strokes have always been a
huge problem for the ageing population. Also, with
consideration of the current demographic transition
model, these problems are yet to become ever so
more frequent with the increasing population of
people in their advancing years. Irregular heartbeats
(arrhythmias) are a main cause to these heart
problems, as blood clogs up in the heart, arteries
and in some cases the brain causing a stroke and
even possibly fatalities. Furthermore, once a stroke
has occurred the patient never returns to a previous
healthy state and often leads to more and serious
health problems. My research according to the NHS
has indicated that arrhythmias, in particular atrial
fibrillation, are in the top ten for hospital admissions
for here in the UK, currently costing the NHS over
£1 billion of their annual budget.
My product is designed to help improve the quality
of life in the ageing population by significantly
reducing the diagnostic time of heart problems,
helping reduce the likelihood of other health
problems. The monitoring device will be used
in a 24/7 environment, during various different
environments including work, exercise, sleeping
and general activities.
“ My product is designed to help improve
the quality of the ageing population by
significantly reducing the diagnostic
time of heart problems.”
> Contact Details
5 Redbridge, Peterborough
Cambrigeshire, PE4 5DP
adrianostaffieri@live.co.uk
> Career Aims
Pursue my interests into the design industry
and start my own furniture design company.
The innovative design is simple and easy to use,
with limited features and buttons leaving less room
for confusion and panic for the user. It is designed
especially focussing on the user’s needs for longer
periods of monitoring and specific periods of
monitoring, e.g. during symptoms. Current designs
are not very user friendly, expensive, big and mostly
only available medically. My contemporary design is
affordable and will be easily available through main high
street stores. The monitoring device easily slots into
a vest comfortable for both male and females whilst
remaining hidden underneath the user’s clothes.
The product takes readings from 6 particular points
of the heart to create an ECG reading, where it is then
sent wirelessly to the receiver. The data is uploaded
as soon as the receiver is inserted into a USB socket,
also where the device charges. The information
is analysed and problems can be identified and
explained at a user’s level also explaining if any
action is required. The information is stored securely
and safely online to prevent loss and to be easily
accessible whilst sitting in your GPs office. All that is
needed is the universal USB socket and an internet
connection where the data can be accessed on the
go, home or even at work.

01
Heart Monitor slotted
into vest
> 02
Heart Monitor Receiver
and USB device
02
01
77

78
> HAnnAH SUgrUE
TOG
Approximately 47% of people have been prescribed
at least one prescription drug in the past month.
Taking this into consideration it has been estimated
that as many as 52% of people taking medication
on a long term basis, are found to be non-compliant
with their routine.
Often this non-compliance is the result of many
prioritising their busy lifestyles over their medical
routines. Many patients admitted that they would
consider missing a dose of medication if occupied
with something else at the time.
It is reasonable to suggest patients often find
themselves singled out or stereotyped because
of their regular intake of medication. This has led
to many feeling ashamed and often embarrassed
being seen with their medication and consequently,
for many their opinion towards the drugs is more
negative than positive.
“ TOG gives back independence
and organisation to users, which
other medication dispensers
have suppressed.”
> Contact Details
51, Speedwell Drive, Heswall,
Wirral, Merseyside, CH60 2SY
mn06hs@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
To further my interests in the advertising
and marketing industry.
The aim of TOG is to ultimately increase compliance
with taking medication on a regular basis. A
prevalent and equivalent goal of the design itself
is to suit all users and their desired lifestyle.
Whilst organising the user’s medical life in the form
of doctor’s appointments, symptoms and medical
information, TOG also houses the medication for
each day or week, dependent on the required dose.
TOG satisfies on an alternate level with its distinctive
aesthetic image and innovative way of managing
medical life.
TOG gives back independence and organisation
to users, which other medication dispensers have
suppressed.

01
Magnetic seal to
close product
> 0 2
Solar panels to power
the screen and LED
> 0 3
Touch screen (on
inside of product)
> 0 4
Embossed logo
> 0 5
On button
> 0 6
Pockets to house
medication (on the
inside of product)
05
06
01
03
04
02
79

80
> JAMES TODD
AvANT TELEvISION
STAND
The recent shift from larger CRT to flat screen LCD
and Plasma sets has subsequently fashioned a
market for audio visual furniture, as television sets
now require a surface to be displayed on. The
potential for original and contemporary designs has
been created, however few innovative products have
capitalised on a niche oversaturated with repetitive
designs. In turn users have been left with uninspiring
products, offering few features in a consumer
market constantly desiring more for their money.
“ A key concern in the design of
the product was to reduce the
time and increase the ease of
the assembly process.”
> Contact Details
Oak Cottage, Friars Gate, Crowborough,
East Sussex, TN6 1XF
mn06j2t@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
To have designed a product found
in every home.
The Avant television stand offers an innovative and
unique alternative which has been designed to offer
more aesthetically and in terms of usability. The
design incorporates a variety of features which allow
the Avant stand to have a distinctive feel of quality
and ingenuity. A key concern in the design of the
product was to reduce the time and increase the
ease of the assembly process, this was achieved
by including a fixing less construction mechanism,
which allows a secure structure to be built without
the need for screws, nails or glue. Additional
usability improvements over existing designs
include adjustable shelf heights to incorporate
any sized audio visual equipment, effective cable
management with an integrated extension cable.
Environmental considerations have been carefully
addressed; all MDF parts are sourced from
sustainable forestry projects, the materials selected
are eco-friendly and the removal of all fixings
contributes to a reduced carbon footprint.

01
Laser cut and bent
mild steel legs
> 0 2
Back panel cable
management system
> 0 3
Adjustable middle
shelf height
> 0 4
Sprayed MDF base
> 0 5
Cut and edge finished
toughened safety glass
> 0 6
Mild Steel Feet
06
01 02
05
03
04
81

82
> JUSTInE TOng
THE BASIC CHEER
NEED – ‘BCN’
Cheerleading is becoming an increasingly
popular sport in the UK, with more than 16,000
participants and increasing each year. The sport
ranges from as young as 4 years old to 30+, right
through primary, secondary, university and beyond.
Each year new teams are being introduced to the
sport, the majority of which are club teams and
university teams.
University teams have a very high turnover, with
a mixture of abilities. For this reason new comers
need to learn the basics of cheerleading before a
routine can be put together for the team to perform
and compete.
“ It allows the user to practise
the ‘step and lock’ technique
on a moveable platform,
simulating the actual stunt.”
> Contact Details
36 Belvedere Court, Leeds,
West Yorkshire, LS17 8NF
justine.tong8@googlemail.com
> Career Aims
Designer/DT Teacher.
My product is designed to give newcomers a
‘feeling’ of how a stunt would feel; coaches or
teams could buy this product as a basic training
device for their members. The product is designed
so that users within the target market can use it
regardless of their weight, shoe size and ability. The
design is unique within this market as it allows the
user to practise the ‘step and lock’ technique on
a moveable platform, simulating the actual stunt.
The platform moves accordingly to the user’s
own ability, the more experienced they are the
more control they have over themselves, resulting
in less movement being made. At first, novice
cheerleaders may not be able to stand on their
own, but as they get used to the movement of the
product they will be able to learn to use the muscles
required and eventually stand as well as be able
to pull a stretch. This gives them the knowledge
and confidence that they will need to perform any
cheerleading stunt.

01
A flyer performing a
lib, the basic stunt that
needs to be mastered
> 0 2
The product in action,
tilting in the desired
direction of the flyer
> 0 3
The top platform on
which the user stands,
the bottom is the same
with the addition on feet
> 0 4
The top part of the
central mechanism
which allows the
movement, the cup
> 0 5
The bottom part of the
central movement, the
point. This fits into the
top part, the cup
> 0 6
The central springs
surrounding the central
mechanism. These
prevent the platform
from tipping too far, as
well as helping to make
the movement smoother
01
02
04
05
03
06
83

84
> rICHArD WILSOn
INTIvU INCLUSIvE
COMPUTER
In the United Kingdom we have an increasing
ageing population, which has become a significant
market sector that is not yet being catered for
adequately in terms of product design. This lack of
consideration for the elderly user could not be more
apparent than in the design of electronic devices
such as the personal computer.
Design for the elderly is often ignored in this
area of consumer product design because of the
competition to make smaller, thinner computers
and laptops which, whilst being aesthetically
impressive, are not inclusive for all to use.
“ A personal computer, inclusively
designed to suit the needs of a
21st century consumer market.”
> Contact Details
37 Clayton Road, Coundon,
Coventry, Cv6 1FD
mn06rcw@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
Become part of a product design
consultancy, focusing my efforts on user
interaction, and the psychology of design.
My product is a personal computer inclusively
designed to suit the needs of a 21st century
consumer market. By focusing on common
limitations that can occur with the ageing process,
both loss of visual acuity (through long sightedness)
and macular degeneration (loss of focus in the
central field of vision) I aimed to design a hardware
interface inclusively, to adequately meet the needs
of all users.
Through careful consideration of contrasting
colours, visual sign posts, and easily accessible
ports, the Intivu (Intuitive through vision) personal
computer is a product designed very much for
the needs of the elderly, and the future needs of
younger generations.

01
Resistive touch screen to
allow intuitive gestures to
control screen settings
> 0 2
visual signposts identify
ports, all of which are
easily accessible
> 0 3
Contrasted keys with
large font, good spacing,
and colour codified
> 0 4
Light feedback in the
clear field of vision
for users with macular
degeneration
> 0 5
Mouse provides haptic
feedback for the user,
in a symmetrical
ergonomic form suitable
for all users
03
04
01
02
05
85

86
> JASOn WInDEr
ROLLIO
A PORTABLE RIGID
FLOORING SOLUTION
The inspiration for Rollio came when I noticed
rollerbladers using large pieces of plywood to cover
uneven ground running up to obstacles. A smooth
surface is essential, but plywood and other urban
debris are large, unwieldy and dangerous to use,
and there are currently no alternative solutions.
After consultation with several rollerbladers on the
local scene and further afield, a conclusion was
made that a portable ground cover would be an
exciting and high demand product within this small,
but close-knit and passionate market, and so the
challenge began.
Rollio forms a completely rigid, flat structure by
means of separate aluminium ‘slats’ being pulled
together at high tension by a rope and lever
mechanism. When the user draws the lever from
its resting position the sections are pulled together
by the tightening rope which passes through nylon
bearings. The sections then lock themselves into
position due to their eccentric cam profiles with
vertical sections preventing lateral movement. The
lever is allowed to pull itself into the left hand side
recess and is held in this position due to its rope
attachment point resting behind the position of the
fulcrum when under tension.
“ What started as a portable ground
cover for rollerbladers has evolved
into a collapsible, modular and
interconnecting flooring solution.”
> Contact Details
1 Cockshott Lane, Idle, Bradford
West Yorkshire, BD10 8UE
jasonwinder123@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
To pursue my interests in design,
materials and music within a creative
and hands-on environment.
When it is time to pack away, as Rollio is rolled up
the eccentric cam profiles expand each slat apart
by an increasingly greater distance thus taking up
the slack in the rope. Two ‘handbag’ type magnets
prevent Rollio from unrolling, and also allow rapid
deployment. Several Rollio can be connected together
to form large rigid platforms by the way of male and
female connecting ‘lugs’. Users have the choice to
have connecting lugs fitted from the factory, or retrofit
them themselves and ramp sections can be taken
away and added for a complete custom solution. As
this project progressed it became apparent that the
working principle of this product could be applied to
many other solutions outside of the sports domain,
for example when a rigid temporary floor needs to be
rapidly deployed in a disaster area, to simply needing a
portable rigid surface when gardening. The difference
between Rollio and other temporary floors are that
it can provide a rigid surface due to its tensioning
mechanism, making it ideal for unstable surfaces
and even openings in the floor such as in road-works
applications. It also collapses to a small size allowing
better transit logistics than the competition. What
started as a product for rollerbladers has evolved
into a multi-application, collapsible, modular and
interconnecting floor-covering solution.

01
Lightweight extruded
aluminium profiles
> 0 2
Ergonomically contoured
aluminium alloy lever
> 0 3
‘Handbag’ type magnet
fixings
> 0 4
Flexible rubber ramp
section
> 0 5
Low creep vectran fibre
rope
> 0 6
Cast steel lugs with
‘male’ fixing connect
to ‘female’ for multiple
Rollio applications
> 0 7
Eccentric cam profile of
each extrusion causes
rope slack to be taken up
> 0 8
Nylon provides low
friction rope bearing
> 0 9
Allen socket adjustment
screw allows optimum
tension to be exerted
with rope
09
08
02
05
01
06
03 04
07
87

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M/Des Students
QAA Masters level qualification
“ Much of the study undertaken at master's level will have been at, or informed by, the
forefront of an academic or professional discipline. Students will have shown originality
in the application of knowledge, and they will understand how the boundaries of
knowledge are advanced through research. They will be able to deal with complex
issues both systematically and creatively, and they will show originality in tackling and
solving problems.
They will have the qualities needed for employment in circumstances requiring sound
judgement, personal responsibility and initiative, in complex and unpredictable
professional environments.”.
From: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/students/guides/UnderstandQuals.asp
Team design project: students gain experience of working in multi-disciplinary teams
on industry driven design projects and develop a detailed knowledge in the subject area
of the project.
Design research: students conduct three live design research projects in conjunction
with researchers at Leeds and International research leaders. These projects both
contribute to the development of each student’s personal creativity and innovation, and
provide them with opportunities to work at the boundaries of knowledge.
Design issues: students consolidate and further develop their awareness of friends and
contexts that are likely to be key influences on design industry in the future.
International corporate leadership: students gain an awareness of the business issues,
both operational and strategic, that will be key to their development as tomorrow’s
design leaders.
Design communication: students develop and draw together work completed
through their undergraduate studies to produce the individual exhibits and portfolios
in the exhibition.
99

100
> JACK CALVErT
MICRO-STIR
Chances are, you are familiar with the ease and
convenience of heating meals using a microwave
oven. Unfortunately, it is also likely that you are
familiar with the limitations of using the microwave
in the kitchen. Though the microwave generally
gets on with its job of heating the food, the need
for a quick stir at regular intervals is ever present.
Failure to stir food results in ‘heat spots’ developing
within it. One area may be luke warm while another
could be boiling itself away. These heat spots can
lead to the food boiling over before the whole body
of food has been heated. Many microwaves can be
observed with the after effects of “when I opened
the door the food had erupted everywhere”.
“ …reduces the development of
heat spots during microwave
oven cooking, powered by the
microwaves themselves.”
> Contact Details
Steward House, High Street, Rothbury
Northumberland, NE65 7TL
j.calvert7@gmail.com
> Career Aims
Use design and business to positively
influence people’s lives.
The Micro-Stir reduces the development of heat
spots during microwave oven cooking, powered
by the microwaves themselves. The food is placed
within the bowl of the stirrer, the vented lid placed
on top of the bowl before the whole stirrer is put
in the microwave as if heating normally. Once the
microwave is activated, the food and microwave
stirrer are bombarded with microwaves. The lid of
the Micro-Stir contains a rectenna; a component
that then converts these microwaves into electricity
that is used to power a piezo-electric stirring arm.
The user can now leave the food for the duration
of its cooking time, safe in the knowledge that it is
being constantly stirred to ensure even heating.
The technology for converting microwaves into
electricity was first developed by NASA in the
1980’s for sending electricity to orbiting satellites
by microwave beam. With remarkable conversion
efficiency, a rectenna of 2.3cm2 produces enough
electricity to power the stirrer. The outer bowl
comprises of acrylic sandwiching a layer of ironoxide
composite foam, specifically developed for
use in microwave ovens. The composite foam heats
up quickly in the microwave and transfers this heat
to the food.

01
Rectenna for converting
microwaves to electricity
> 0 2
Safe heat resistant
silicone handles
> 0 3
Flexible silicone stirring
arm
> 0 4
Quick heating iron-oxide
composite foam layer
> 0 5
Clear acrylic bowl
01 02
05
04
03
101

102
> EDWArD CArrOLL
BOUNCE Ev
“ It is well and truly time
for electric vehicles to
take over the streets.”
The Bounce Ev (Electric vehicle) personal
transporter is what the Segway should have been.
It is innovative technology (in the form of in-wheel
brushless DC electric motor) in a sleek, appealing
shell, designed to solve the problems of today’s
world. Bounce Ev is classified as a moped or motor
scooter and is therefore licensed as such. Bounce
Ev is a single person transport with approximately
40 litres of luggage room in the compartment just
forward of the rider. It has enough power to hit 100
kph in 4.9 seconds, and enough battery capacity
to travel 100 kilometres between charging. Bounce
Ev charges from a normal wall power outlet using a
detachable lithium ion battery pack.
Bounce Ev was inspired by the failure of other
forms of personal transport like the Segway and
the Sinclair C5. A thorough analysis of both cases
provided the research background to kick-start this
project. The brief was simple – ‘Solve a problem’.
> Contact Details
87 Pampling Street, Camp Hill, QLD,
Australia, 4152
epb.carroll@gmail.com
> Career Aims
To leave a better world behind
me through good design.
Two problems that I believe are pressing are
pollution and congestion. Our planet can only
support so much biomass, and there comes a
point when we need to stop taking from it, and start
giving. While a mass manufactured electric scooter
is not the final answer to this problem, I believe it
is a step in the right direction. Congestion is also a
big part of this. If an internal combustion vehicle
is stopped in traffic, the engine still runs, and still
emits toxins. A massive amount of completely
unnecessary pollution is created. An electric
vehicle produces no emissions during its running,
and when it is stopped, it is stopped. Nothing is
happening. While ICE vehicles are still appropriate
for longer routes, it is well and truly time for electric
vehicles to take over city streets.

01
Lightweight fork design
> 0 2
Lightweight composite
fairing
> 0 3
Alloy chassis
> 0 4
In-wheel brushless
DC motor
01
02
03
04
103

104
> CHrISTOPHEr g DrEW
THE WIFARER
With the proliferation of wireless networking into
every aspect of social and commercial circles,
there is a growing need for connectivity in every
setting. Mobile communications are in turn shifting,
voice over internet protocol services allowing for
cheaper and easier communication than standard
mobile networks.
The challenge we face is how to integrate wireless
networks into everyday contemporary settings
without costly new infrastructure, Wifi towers that
would become public eyesores and blanket the
airwaves around us.
In an age of ubiquitous computing, where everyday
objects take on more complex technological
roles, we can surely find a solution to this problem
and when we look at the settings in question
this solution announces itself; why create a new
network when we can use one that already exists?
Wherever there is a need for connectivity, there is
one constant: people.
“ To utilize the social networks that
already exist to proliferate new
systems of communication.”
> Contact Details
Hillocks Farm, Whalley Old Road,
Lancashire, BB79JE
chrisgdrew@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
Product and conceptual designer.
Free Thinker.
The Wifarer is an exercise in this ideal, to utilize
the social networks that already exist to proliferate
new systems of communication. This device is a
wearable mesh networking hub, connecting to
nearby networks and expanding their range to
other such devices. This allows a connection to be
passed along a chain of Wifarers creating a network
from the users. If one device in the network can
connect to the internet, all devices will have access,
instantly routing through the fastest connection. Its
applicability is only limited by its consumer base,
with enough products in the market, it would be
possible to have constant access to the internet in
an urban setting.
The Wifarer is a form of wireless altruism, by helping
themselves extend their connectivity, the users help
others to do the same. One good turn giving way
to another.

01
Signal meter
> 0 2
Battery meter
> 0 3
Battery pack
> 0 4
Solar panelling
03 04
01
02
105

106
> THOMAS EALES
WHATT ?
James Dyson Award – “Design something that
solves a problem.”
One of the major contributors to wasted energy
during a product’s lifespan is the exploitation of
what industry has termed, “Standby Power”.
Standby Power describes the state in which an
electrical product is drawing mains energy yet
appears not to be operational, as such impacting on
both the user’s carbon footprint and finances.
In a 2001 press conference to the Department of
Energy, George W Bush stated that “because of
our desire for instant convenience, many of the
appliances in our homes carry unnecessarily high
energy costs. Because we’re used to a computer
coming on instantly or a Tv snapping on as a result
of a remote switch, common day appliances eat
enormous amounts of energy.” (Bush. 2001)
Consequently we are paying for the privilege of
convenience at the cost of the environment.
“ There is no question that anyone
would turn off a leaking tap.
Similarly, if there is a leak of electric
power, the first instinct would be to
cut off the leak.” (Tsunho 2008)
> Contact Details
25 Clive Place, Penarth,
vale of Glamorgan, CF64 1AW
tom@plusminusdesign.co.uk
> Career Aims
Setting up a sustainably focused design
consultants under the name of ± Design with fellow
students Adam Robinson and Henry James.
The Whatt calls into question the convenience
factor present in the many electronic goods we
surround ourselves with in Western society. It alerts
the consumer to the resources they are wasting in a
term understood by all: cold, hard, cash.
Whatt’s purpose is two-fold; to decrease an
individual’s impact on the environment through
reducing the amount of electrical power they draw
and to facilitate financial savings through alerting
users to energy being wasted. If the user chooses
not to then remove the power supply to the named
product the Whatt will remove the power supply
itself after a set period of time.
The Whatt comprises a base unit powered by a
single AA battery and multiple transceiver adapters
drawing minimal power from the mains; the Power
Transceivers deliver information to the Base Unit
that the user can choose to act upon or not.
“ There is no question that anyone would turn off
a leaking tap. Similarly, if there is a leak of electric
power, the first instinct would be to cut off the
leak.” (Tsunho. 2008)

01
Whatt – Base Unit,
receives information
from Power Transceiver
> 0 2
Whatt – Power
Transceiver, transmits
energy usage to Base
Unit
01
02
107

108
> JAMES HySOn
WATER LILY
In today’s busy and work oriented environment the
pleasure attained from the keeping and caring for
plants can be as relaxing as owning a pet or feeling
a sense of nature in the urban sprawl. However
very few of us can claim never to have neglected a
houseplant forgetting to water or feed it, to the point
that its leaves and petals are brown and wilted,
leaving us with a sense of personal failure and
inadequacy. Maintaining a healthy plant is the fine
balance between over and under watering. Dry soil
and damp over sodden water can have an almost
instant effect on a fragile indoor potted plant. It is
unlikely that many of us have the green fingered
touch needed to keep these plants looking their best.
The water lily is designed to take away the gamble
of over or under watering your delicate household
plant. The ceramic stem is designed to regulate
the passage of water into the soil. By inserting the
semi-porous stem into the soil the water is delivered
directly to the plants roots rather than having it sit
at its base or sitting on the surface. The natural
porosity of the ceramic allows for a regulated
saturation of the soil. The water is only taken from
the lily when the soil dries out to a certain degree.
The natural osmosis of the plant draws the water
“ The natural osmosis of
the plant draws the water
through the porous stem into
the soil and into the roots.”
> Contact Details
Springfield, Appleshaw, Andover,
Hampshire, SP11 9AB
pedro_sanchez_lv@hotmail.com
> Career Aims
To pursue my interest in user centred design
with a focus on functional products.
from the lily to the soil and into its roots. The flower
part of the lily holds the water and these come in
a variety of volumes for different sized plant. The
stamen of the plant rises and falls as the volume of
the water left in the flower changes. This provides
a visual indication to the user as to how often the
lily needs to be refilled. Because of this osmosis
wicking behavior of the water through the stem and
into the soil it is not necessary to water the plant
everyday and the likelihood of forgetting to water the
plant is taken away. The visual cue of the stamen
provides the user with feedback as to how often
they need to water the plant and as only the water
the plant needs is taken the plant will remain full
and healthy.

01
The flower is filled
with water
> 0 2
The stamen comes in
various colours and rises
and falls as the level of
the water changes
> 0 3
The semi porous stem
regulates the flow of
water from the flower
into the soil
01
02
03
109

110
> HEnry JAMES
RODIN KITCHEN
SCULPTOR
Design for the next 90 years: meeting tomorrow’s
needs.
Rodin Kitchen Sculptor addresses future
predictions for widespread obesity in Western
society. Tackling obesity, particularly in young
people forming their relationships with food,
is identified as a key action in many countries.
In Britain, by 2050, Foresight Modeling indicates
60% of men, 50% of women and about 25%
of children under 16 could be obese.
The US Office of the Surgeon General outlines
priorities for bringing obesity under control,
including; “Promote healthier food choices,
including at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables
each day” (Office of the Surgeon General, 2007).
Rodin is an adaptable, safe, laser-cutter aimed
specifically at making consumption of fruit
and vegetables more exciting, fun, and most
importantly, sustained. Young children are famously
averse to healthy eating, but even the most
stubborn will warm to Brussels sprout footballs,
superhero carrot sticks or “open-wide-here-comesthe-aeroplane”
pineapple shapes!
“ Get creative with irresistible “open-wide-herecomes-the-aeroplane”
kids’ fruit slices! Say
goodbye to mundane kitchen tasks – sit back
and let Rodin peel, chop or julienne…”
> Contact Details
henry@plusminusdesign.co.uk
> Career Aims
Setting up a sustainably focused design
consultancy under the name ± Design with fellow
students Adam Robinson and Thomas Eales.
Just about anything is possible with the Rodin
sculptor, enabling even the artistically and
technologically challenged to create amazing things
at the push of a button.
Rodin, named after the great sculptor, is not just
about fun for kids. It lets you create everything, from
intricate ornamental vegetable cuts and decorations
key to Oriental cooking to miniature cityscapes,
historical icons or even the alphabet. Let Rodin help
you and your family learn while you eat.
Either let Rodin download wirelessly one of
thousands of patterns from our online archive, or
get creative yourself, hone your family’s computer
skills with simple intuitive 3D shape software, and
share your sculptures with the online community.
And that’s not all! Not only does Rodin offer you
endless fun as kitchen artist, it also takes control
of mundane jobs too. Just set the machine to peel,
chop, or julienne, then sit back and wait for the type
of perfection that’ll wow friends at any dinner party!

01
Touch sensitive digital
display and control
interface
> 0 2
Sculpting bay with low
wattage lasers, accessed
through protective splitsliding
glass shield
> 0 3
Rotating stainless
steel grip plate with
contactless Maglev
technology
> 0 4
Spring-loaded collection
drawer
> 0 5
Warm Parisian Salad
with Eiffel Tower, Arc
de Triomphe and Notre
Dame butternut squash
shapes
01
03
04
02
05
111

112
> EMMA PInnOCK
SUSTAINABLE TOY
RANGE
The aim of this project is to redesign the iconic
rubber duck for today’s market. A toy which is made
from cheaply manufactured PvC is not a good
example of sustainable design. Especially when
many of the PvC ducks contain phthalates, chemical
compounds that make the PvC plastic more flexible,
and which initial studies have linked to both cancer
and hormonal disruption (Greenpeace, 1997).
Toys are designed to promote inclusion, to
encourage playing with others and to stimulate
children’s imagination. The frog has been designed
to play with in the bathroom, where children have
most freedom due to the buoyancy of the water.
To include and delight children with visual and
hearing impairments the frog design includes
different shapes with large raised parts, different
textures and tactile surfaces on each part of the
frog stimulating the touch sensors. The legs when
pushed and prodded create varying realistic frog
noises which are familiar. The body of the frog when
squished in the bath creates bubbles. The parts of
the frog are easy to pull off and put back on allowing
the child to fully explore the toy. And finally the
design is in bright bold colours to help the child to
see the different parts if possible. Water and energy
“ Toys are designed to promote
inclusion, to encourage playing
with others and to stimulate
children’s imaginations.”
> Contact Details
4 Sandringham Road, St. Annes,
Lancashire, FY8 1Ez
greenapple8888@hotmail.co.uk
> Career Aims
To work in the design industry focusing on
sustainable products for everyday use.
use is a very important topic at the moment and
has the potential to change our future. Teaching
children not to waste energy and water at an early
age was a strong argument for this project.
The materials of the frog react and change colour if
there are a lot of chemicals in the bath water from
shampoo and soap. This is to signify to the children
and parents that pollution and overuse of chemicals
can lead to acidification of the water and can affect
the lives of many animals later on in the water cycle.
In addition the frog changes to a stronger different
colour when the water is too hot providing a safety
benefit to the child and parent. The frog has
suckers to stick to the bottom of the bath when
running water, the mouth of the frog shows the child
and parent when to stop running the water. This
level provides enough water for the child to bathe
and play, but encourages children not to fill the bath
up to the top. The final feature of the design is the
hollow body. When the bath water has been used,
it can be scooped out by the child in the frog and
carried to water the plants in the home. Since the
colour change promotes fewer chemicals in the
water, the water is purer to feed the plants.

113

114
> ADAM rOBInSOn
JUST ADD WATER
As the concepts of finite world thinking are becoming
more established consumers are developing an
awareness of how their everyday actions can
accumulate to create staggering consequences.
In recent years the most publicised of these actions
has been the consumption of bottled water and use
of power in the home, however as the use of low
energy light bulbs and appliances has promoted
a huge society shift the bottled water industry has
seen no such innovations.
3 billion bottles are being consumed annually in
the UK with 80% of these being sent to landfill.
Transportation in the UK alone amounts to 33,200
tons of carbon emissions whereas, in comparison,
tap water is estimated to produce just 0.3g per litre,
over 300 times less. Environmental concerns aside,
bottled water can cost the consumer between 240
and 10,000 times more than tap.
“ Just Add Water is an incremental
step towards a more sustainable
drinking culture allowing consumers
to buy bottle caps that deliver flavour,
energy or vitamins to tap water.”
> Contact Details
30 Dene Park, Kirkburton,
Huddersfield, HD8 0XJ
adam@plusminusdesign.co.uk
> Career Aims
Setting up a sustainably focused design
consultancy under the name of ± Design with
fellow students Henry James and Thomas Eales.
‘Just Add Water’ is an incremental step towards
a more sustainable drinking culture allowing
consumers to buy bottle caps that deliver flavour,
energy or vitamins to tap water. The sports cap
has the ability to seal onto almost all plastic water
bottles currently on the market through an intuitive
push and twist action that mimics traditional screw
fit tops. The added value is delivered through a
gelatine-based liquid tab that is within cap and
dissolves rapidly on contact with water. Continued
use of the cap is encouraged through the provision
of liquid tab refill packs at a greatly reduced cost to
the main product. Simple fill, push, twist and shake.
The design results in lower use of materials; the
avoidance of shipping, reduced mass in landfills
and eliminates the direct social and environmental
concerns of water extraction offering consumers
a more financially and environmentally
sustainable option.

01
Sports cap containing
liquid tab
> 0 2
Liquid tab containing
added value of vitamins,
minerals, carbonation
or flavour
> 0 3
Refill multipack of
liquid tabs
> 0 4
Universal bottle fitting
01
02
03
04
115

116
> SArAH STEVEnS
THE SODA-PURA
Britons drink three billion bottles of water a year,
half a billion of these are shipped from overseas.
Of these bottles, more than 80% end up in landfill
and do not biodegrade. One litre of tap water
accounts for 0.3g of CO2, and costs 0.097p. A
750ml bottle of mineral water can have a carbon
footprint 300 times higher.
The project is in response to a mini-brief, set by
the Design Council as part of the D&AD Student
Awards; “To create a product that entices
consumers to drink from the tap rather than
the bottle”.
“ The Soda-Pura allows you
to enjoy the convenience
of freshly filtered cold
beverages in seconds.”
> Contact Details
109 Church Road, Kearsley
Bolton, BL4 8BP
sarah.stevens01@googlemail.com
> Career Aims
A role in product or design management,
encompassing user research, concept
generation and design.
The solution is The Soda-Pura, created as a new
product in the Soda-Stream range. The Soda-Pura
purifies tap water, to produce fresh, home filtered,
still and sparking beverages.
The Soda-Pura is an innovative water filter and
carbonation system. The handy device allows you
to enjoy the convenience of freshly filtered cold
beverages in seconds.
For a refreshing glass of purified water, simply
position the bottle, lift the lid and fill up to the line
with tap water, after a few moments the water will
pass through the Activated Carbon filter into
the bottle.
For that extra fizz, simply pull down the cover and
press the carbonation button 3-5 times.
Remove and enjoy.

01
Fill with tap water
> 0 2
Wait a few moments for
water to pass through
the filter
> 0 3
Remove bottle, or pull
down inner cover to
locate plug in bottle neck
> 0 4
Press button 3 – 5 times
> 0 5
Lift cover and remove
bottle. Add flavour
if desired
04
02
03
05
01
117

118
> JADE TSO
BURLESQUE
LINGERIE
Icons are unique and compelling; as inspirational
as they are innovative. They can exist in all decades
and live on forever in the hearts and minds of those
who revere them. In the world of fashion, icons can
inspire entire collections.
My product is based on the iconic image of the
burlesque dancer.
Burlesque was revived in the 1990’s, and has
caused sensation throughout the entertainment
industry. The idea of the Burlesque dancer creates
excitement for both men and women alike. The raw
sex appeal mixed with the seduction and elegance
portrayed by the classic Burlesque dancer is what I
have tried to encapsulate within my design.
“If love is blind, why is lingerie so popular?”
“ …bringing seduction back
into life through lingerie…”
> Contact Details
7 Upcroft Avenue, Edgware,
Middlesex, HA8 9RA
Jade.Tso@gmail.com
> Career Aims
Design products that will be wanted.
With sex being bandied around everywhere
nowadays, the classic concept of courtship
and seduction seems to have been lost from
relationships. My idea is bringing seduction back
into life through lingerie.
My lingerie is made from various chiffon materials.
This material is versatile as it creates a visual
illusion, used in my lingerie to help hide a woman’s
possible body flaw. It also has a texture that exudes
luxury when touched; this helps both the user
mentally by providing a feeling of being glamorous,
and makes it an item that wants to be touched.

119

120
> HEnry JAMES / ADAM rOBInSOn /
ATA KyErEME-BOAFO
SOLARAID ORB
Widespread rural African regions lack affordable
mains power and reliable lighting. Kerosene
is burnt to provide light in Hurricane lanterns.
Evening darkness makes everyday tasks, such
as helping children with homework, a challenge.
Indoor burning of kerosene poses health risks,
from respiratory conditions to fatal house fires.
“ Respiratory diseases caused by toxic smoke kill
1.6 million women and children each year. That’s
one death every 20 seconds.” (SolarAid, 2009)
Kerosene also represents a financially unsustainable
situation. very poor Malawian families spend a
significant percentage of income on kerosene fuel
at unit energy costs far surpassing Britain’s.
“ Orb, an innovative home lighting
solution, is safe, provides renewable
energy and is a crucial component
for social sustainability in one of the
world’s poorest countries.”
> Contact Details
adam@plusminusdesign.co.uk
henry@plusminusdesign.co.uk
men5akb@leeds.ac.uk
> Career Aims
Adam and Henry are starting a design
consultancy under the name ± Design.
Ata would like to pursue graphics or game
design, if not, become an entrepreneur.
Orb, an innovative home lighting solution, is
safe, provides renewable energy and is a crucial
component for social sustainability in one of the
world’s poorest countries.
Orb responds to specific needs of Malawian
users, including styling preferences and product
versatility. Sunlight is efficiently converted into
energy for powering task and ambient lighting after
dark. Radios, mobile phones and other devices may
also be charged from Orb’s mini power socket. The
robust lamp is designed to be locally serviceable,
supporting rural economy through employment, as
well as being adaptable, lightweight and compact
for transportation.
Most importantly, Orb provides these social benefits
at a cost of just £5 in local currency for the basic
model, with the opportunity for product expansion.

121

122
> LOUISE BArrETT / CHErI BEEr /
CHrISTOPHEr g DrEW / THOMAS
EALES / SArAH STEVEnS
NOKIA POP
These days you see people wandering on the
streets, talking to ethereal voices or texting
away furiously; as a result, they are always partly
present in the online community.
With the ability to be continuously half-present
among friends and family, we will see a lot more
people wandering on the streets, never really quite
there, listening and talking to voices in their heads.
With the rise in unlimited data-plans and more
powerful mobile devices, users now have the ability
to be present in multiple locations simultaneously.
Traditional mobile communication is not wellsuited
to this emerging scenario. It is single-mode,
session-based communication between pairs of
people using technologies such as voice calling or
text messaging.
“ POP – Making the transition from
fashion statement to fashion item.”
> Contact Details
louise.r.barrett@googlemail.com
cheri.beer@gmail.com
chrisgdrew@googlemail.com
tom@plusminusdesign.co.uk
s.stevens01@googlemail.com
The Nokia POP strips back the conventional mobile
phone to the applications users value most: calling,
texting, calendar and alarm.
The touch screen disk is the core of the device
that can be interchanged, or ‘POPPED’ between
housings; such as a wrist strap or necklace making
it wearable and continuously present.
The Nokia POP addresses the loss of emotion and
meaning currently present in mobile communications;
through the subtle integration of light, colour and
vibration to the communication experience.
As the device is now worn and not carried the user
has both constant and immediate access, therefore
reducing the stress burden generated through
continuous partial attention: the constant division of
an individual’s attention between a variety of tasks.
In addition, if an individual already owns a
conventional mobile device the Nokia POP
can function as an intermediator, receiving any
communications sent to the that device, allowing
for instant access at all times.

01
The disc can be
removed, or, “POPPED”
from the supplied
housing and placed
into others, for example,
a necklace
> 0 2
Calendars are displayed
on the watch face for
immediate reference
against the current time
> 0 3
Touch screen allows
for intuitive interaction
> 0 4
Aluminium casings
provide the product
a premium aesthetic
01 02 03 04
123

Acknowledgements
The programme team wish to thank the following people and organisations who have
contributed to the delivery and development of the Product Design programme.
Colleagues from the following Schools who have contributed to the development
and delivery of the programme:
> Mechanical Engineering, Electronic & Electrical Engineering, Civil Engineering, and
Process Environmental and Materials Engineering within the Faculty of Engineering;
> School of Design within the Faculty of Performance visual Arts and Communications;
> Leeds University Business School.
The royal Academy of Engineering who have supported Visiting Professors David
raffo and John roberts through their Visiting Professors schemes in Engineering
Design for Sustainable Development and Principles of Engineering Design.
The Leverhulme Trust who have supported Visiting Professor Mark Henderson from
Arizona State University through their Leverhulme Visiting Professors scheme.
The companies and organisations who have supported Level 3 and 4 projects:
> Faraday Packaging Partnership
> Tigerprint Ltd
> Off The Wall Ltd
> Nokia
> Solar Aid
> Who supported the wheel chair?
> Who supported the neurosurgery device?
The visiting lecturers who have participated in the delivery of the programme:
> Professor Jacques Giard (College of Design, Arizona State University, USA)
> Mr Jim Rait (IC Pod)
> visiting Professor Lawrence Lowe (Lawrence Lowe Associates)
> Professor George Stiny (Department of Architecture, Massachussettts Institute
of Technology, USA)
> Mr John Hardy
>
Dr Simon Schuette (Linköping University, Sweden)
124

Awards
Christopher Trodden
Top 10 finalist > Liverpool Design Awards
Samual rock
Tigerprint Toy Design > Winner 2009 / Leeds University
Francesca Critchfield
Tigerprint Toy Design > Winner 2009 / Leeds University
nick Johnson
Tigerprint Toy Design > Winner 2009 / Leeds University
Polly Firth
Selected for BBC2 Series “Philippe Starck's School of Design”
125

126