Re-design of a portable fan

Abstract: Abstract This master’s thesis is a project of 20p made in accordance with the requirements set by Halmstad University for a Master’s degree in Technical Product and Productions development. The objectives were to make a conceptual redesign of a portable fan for the American company Hunter Fan. The redesign is intended to be suitable on the Scandinavian market. The methodology and process are mainly based on Ullman’s methodology for product development, in combination with Landqvist’s and Östelin’s design methodology for production development. An optimal design process is rarely identical from project to project; the best parts and tools from the different design methodologies were used as support during the process. The design process in this project started with research within topics suitable to solve the problem definition. Brand research were made to determine Hunter Fan core values and target group, the existing product was analysed to see what could be improved and the market was investigated to learn from competitors. An image board was made to express the values wanted for this project and for communication with people directly involved in the design process. Trends were observed by a visit to the Stockholm Furniture Fair. Further user personas and surveys were made to investigate the Scandinavian consumer’s needs and requirements. This method gave important knowledge of how to design a portable fan suitable for the Scandinavian market. Experts on the subject of matter were interviewed to get understanding of how fan blade works and what alternative safety solutions there are. In the ideation phase, brainstorming and sketching was a big part. Over a hundred idea sketches were made and the ideas were carefully evaluated against collected fact. In the finalization phase, the remaining concepts were refined with methods like mock-up models, CAD and computer renderings. The result is a successful conceptual design of a table fan suitable for the Scandinavian market. Hunter Fan also believes the fan can easily be transformed to the Urban American cities of New York and other large cities. The table fan owns the values of Scandinavian design; a simple uncomplicated design, functional and with an expression of simplicity and modernity. It still owns Hunter Fan core value of high quality. The design easily blends in the carefully decorated Scandinavian home. It is also easy to move, put away and store like the Scandinavian consumer requires. There is a need on the Scandinavian market for a well designed portable fan and the final design of this project fulfill the requirements to be a successful product.