HAIR DRYER
BREIF
An ergonomic hair dryer that rejects the generic, clinical form typical of other hairdryers, instead drawing its shape from the human body with a form that follows the natural curve of the palm, creating a grip that feels held rather than gripped. The organic, ornamental detailing that gives the product a decorative, vanity-worthy presence. A rear-mounted convex mirror doubles as the temperature display and control , merging styling and grooming into one fluid interaction.
Duration 2 years
Start date 2023
Status product was tooled, but the project was cancelled, so never made it to production
Patent USD1099418S1
Rethinking the Hair dryer.
Most hair dryers prioritise technical performance, often resulting in products that feel clinical and utilitarian.
This concept explores a more human-centred approach, combining ergonomic comfort with decorative qualities to create an object that feels equally suited to grooming and interior spaces
PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Exploring forms
I began Sketching alongside ergonomic research, visual references and studies of the the form of the human body, cosmetic objects and decorative artefacts that communicate warmth rather than machinery.
The project started with a slightly different brief. I first started looking at a hair dryer with two articulated joints, for the purpose of using it hands free, for more ease of use when in the hand and to be able to fit multiple attachments onto the nozzle e.g. hot hair brush. But I maintained the form development as this project change to a normal fixed hair dryer.
3D MODELS
Starting with foam models I carved forms I liked from sketches, trying to balance comfortable and organic form.
Left is a 3D printed model that was produced from making CAD from a foam handle
Results from testing. The handle needed more room for the fan and more inlet for the air at the bottom of the handle.
FIRST LLWL PROTOTYPE
A functional Looks Like, Works Like (LLWL) prototype was produced to evaluate ergonomics, balance, overall user experience and performance. The CAD model was shared with the factory, enabling parallel development of the internal components and start discussions on housing of those components.
REFINING THE DESIGN
Testing identified several opportunities for refinement, which were incorporated into the next design iteration.
The main point gained from the LLWL prototype is the form had lost some elegance from previous models. So with communications with the factory I re-deigned the surfaces to slim down the handle, while maintaining the performance.
PRODUCTION CAD
surface reflection analysis and Draft analysis for production CAD
ATTACHMENTS
I designed attachment to match the aesthetics of the hairdryer
EB SAMPLES
A number of Engineering Build samples were produced by the factory to evaluate the design using production components, validating fit, function and assembly before progressing to first-off tooling.
PACKAGING
Packaging design was discussed with the factory. Including how the product would be displayed in the box and the boxes themselves to give the customer the best experience. several samples were produced.
FOT
The project reached first-off tool, but due to a change in business priorities it wasn’t taken into mass production.
COLOURS
I also did work looking at colour trends and colours for possible brand ambassadors including celebrities and social media influencers.
