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Layered Power Management

Back in the day when batteries in remote controls ran low, they would be working one moment and not the next, right? Apparently though, based on how different remotes are designed and how power is distributed, different buttons and functions are affected differently when power starts running low. I noticed this over the weekend when…

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The God of Thoughtful Design

When companies create products, focus often tends to be on maximizing perceived value and profitability (within the respective value category). It’s like they are looking outward, being reactive (to competitors), and playing their part in a herd. Yet every once in a rare while, comes a product that has been built so thoughtfully, you begin…

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How Should the Pedestrian Cross the Road?

Many Rolls Royce cars have a sheer vertical drop front design. And while they are extremely powerful and can go fast, they normally don’t, because they are meant to transport their occupants safely, in luxury, and in a refined manner, not to indulge in drag races. And so the vertical drop might be alright on…

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Product Names — What’s in a Name?

When naming a startup or product, many settle for the first decent option, while others obsess over finding the perfect one. But as a WWII life-saving invention revealed, sometimes the name can make all the difference between success and failure.

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Gravity and Angle of Approach

Ever had your phone fall on your face while lying down, or been nearly spilled on by a waiter’s odd angle of serving? These everyday examples of gravity and Angle of Approach (AoA) reveal how design flaws can impact our experiences—imagine how much smoother life could be with a little more attention to both.

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Innovative Products or Solutions

Focusing on the “average” majority often leads to oversimplified, generic solutions. But by innovating for users at the extremes, you create more flexible, inclusive products that better meet everyone’s needs.

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Helmets from Scallop Shells

A lot of you probably love scallops?! [controls drool]. Now, imagine scallop shells that are thrown away after we’ve had the good stuff. Then, imagine 40000 tons of scallop shells thrown away! That is the quantity of discarded scallop shells the island of Hokkaido in Japan sees each year! Just left there, the shells would…

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Product Design should factor Human Forgetfulness

Product design should factor for human forgetfulness where possible. This is a picture of the detergent tray from a leading brand, top-loading washing machine. The hole in the tray is where detergent, mixed with water, drips into the drum during a wash cycle. However, when the tray is opened to fill detergent, you notice it…

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Product Design Inputs for a Standing Desk

Invisible Bed has been an interesting product company. As a recent owner of a wall mounted sit/ stand desk, I recently shared some product design inputs with the CEO. They were well received. The Product: The Challenge: 1.Pre-attached table-top – makes installation a challenge even for a 2-person team, as the table-top weight causes the…