Product Design Coursework

PRODUCT DESIGN A2
COURSEWORK:
BIODEGRADABLE PLANT
FOOD PEGS
Zaib Nasir
Candidate number- 2199

DESIGN BRIEF
CHILDREN'S BIODEGRADABLE PLANT FOOD PEG
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION/PURPOSE
The need for more environmentally friendly products is
becoming more prominent in today's market. It has also
become more common to have various campaigns
targeting young people to get involved with their own
microcosm environment, to get involved in gardening and
tending to nature in their own way. My product aims to
get children interested in gardening using a aesthetic
biodegradable plant food that children can plant in their
own gardens, but will naturally decompose acting as a
nutrient for the surrounding area.
FUNCTIONS
The product will be focusing on its environmentally
beneficial aspect with its biodegradable feature.
However, as this product is for children it also needs to
be able to appealing as opposed to a standard gardeners
practical plant food. So also a big aspect of the product
will be its aesthetic feature. Some possible ways of this
being developed would be designing the product in the
shape of wacky flowers or plants, something that’s
appealing to children but will also look good in the garden
itself.
CONSUMER NEEDS
The target market is for children to use the product,
however parents need to purchase so it needs to appeal
to both markets.
•As an item intended for children the product needs to be
simple and easy to use, as well as not adding further
complication for the parents.
•As a product that is meant to naturally biodegrade it
needs to be cheap, as its not built to last.
•It needs to be aesthetically pleasing.
MATERIAL
One of the main focuses of this product would be the
material, focusing on what would be the best material to
mix the plant food with and also how it will biodegrade
naturally and quickly.
This page gives an overall introduction to my whole basic product and idea. In order
to go about designing and developing my idea I first I must review the ‘skeleton’ of
my starting point.
These biodegradable plant pots already on the market
use kinds materials that I would also be looking to use.
Usually they are made of compressed developed
compost or fibre, sometimes a paper alternative and they
retail approximately at 20p each depending on size. The
material wouldn't cost a lot to manufacture.
These ‘plant food spikes’ are meant to stick into the soil
beside the plant to give the plant some extra nutrients. I
want to incorporate these ‘spikes’ with the aesthetic
appeal and biodegradable aspect to appeal to young
children. Currently, this product retails at approximately
£1.27 for a pack. Another example of a biodegradable
product is these garden pegs to
temporarily secure materials to the
ground and they can be buried into the
soil when finished. Although no harm
is done to the environment no benefits
are actually had with this product in
terms of soil and plant nutrition. My
product aims to incorporate various
elements of the products shown above
LIST OF THINGS TO ADDRESS
•Aesthetics: I need to know what kind of shape and
colours appeal to children. I will draw up some
possible designs then interview a child asking which
one they like best. At the same time, the product
mustn't look tacky and must have a professional feel
about it, so it can also appeal to the parents of the
child as they are the ones who are buying.
•Anthropometrics: I need to do some research into
how the product can be used by children easily and
ergonomically fitting to their hands. The current plant
food spikes on the market are too thin and small for
children to adequately use them
•Material: I need to do some research or perhaps
obtain specialist help on what biodegradable
materials can mix easily with a plant food solution. I
need to also do some separate research on
biodegradable materials itself, perhaps purchasing an
existing product suing it and seeing how it already
works.
CONCLUSION
As far as my current research has shown me, this
product is unique in that it appeals to a younger
audience and that it can naturally decompose. Further
specialist research may be required for the material
side of the product (combining the plant food with the
biodegradable material) and I will need to do some
research on developing the product
anthropometrically fro children and aesthetically
interesting in terms of shape and colour.
PotatoPak is a
material I could
consider
researching as a
biodegradable
material. The
product is made of
waste potato starch
as the raw material
and is vacuum
moulded. There’s
other biodegradable
DESIGN BRIEF

MOOD BOARD This page explores possible designs and materials that could help into producing
and designing my product. Part of my research and development. Part of the images
I have included explore different biodegradable materials, aesthetic features of
modern gardening products and the anthropometrics of kids gardening product on
the market.

INSPIRATIONS GAINED FROM
MOODBOARD
Highlights some main inspirations I have from
researching different products on the market.
The innovative
design used
here in the
children
watering can
appeals o both
children and
adults with its
aesthetic appeal
and toy like
nature, I wish to
incorporate this
into my product
as well
Potato pak is a
biodegradable
material used in
packaging like
disposable cups
and plates. Its
an interesting
concept which I
wish to explore
and consider to
use in my
product as well.
I want my product to have an aesthetic
appeal to adults as well as children
Like this
compostable
crisp bag I
want my
product to
have a
biodegradabi
lity function
and to be
compostable.
These tools
have been
specially
designed with
children in mind.
I want to make
sure that my
product is
ergonomic so
that children can
easily grip and
use it with ease.
I’d like to also keep in mind the minimal. During my research of
other products on the market I have established the best
products for children are kept reasonably simple for them to
understand how to use it and the product itself doesn’t look to
cluttered.
The
compactness
of products is
a useful
element for
product to
have. The
consumer
would prefer
and
purchase a
product that
they can
easily store
like these
ones.
The colour
coalitions of the
product all have
combinations of
the natural and
gardening, I want
my product to
have the same.
This innovation and creativeness is unique and
stands out on the market, this is a good feature
to have.

Start
producing
models
using a
variety of
techniques
and
materials.
Develop a
range of
ideas,
displaying in
the
coursework
the
progression
of ideas and
solutions
Start to focus
upon
developing
products
specifically
for the final
product
Using safety
standards
information,
test materials
in destructive
and non-
destructive
testing
Develop
more ideas
through
CAD using
Google
Sketchup
Througho
ut ensure
child
safety and
hygiene is
considere
d
Is the
produ
ct
safe?
Produce a
3D
isometric
and 2D
orthograp
hic
projection
s of Final
Design
Assemble
Final
design
Any
areas
need
specif
ic
impro
veme
nt?
Contin
ue to
Finish
Final
Design
Take
product
back to
clients
across
the
market –
record
voices
and write
reports
Develop a
Marketing
Strategy
including
advertisin
g,
marketabil
ity, advert,
logo
design,
product
name
Begin to
Evaluate
design,
comparing
back to
specification
and 3rd party
feedback
comments,
including
future
developments
Write up
and carry-
out small
improvemen
ts for future
developmen
ts using
CAD or
sketches
Evaluate
entire
process –
compare
back to
this project
plan
ENDSTART
Identify the
key areas
to research
to help
developme
nt of my
product.
Link in with
current
manufacture
s relating to
my product.
Keep in
mind
safety as
the
product is
for
children.
Gain
inspiratio
n and
ideas via
current
products
of the
market.
SEP
Have I got
enough
informatio
n to write
an
adequate
specificati
on?
Get outsiders to
asses and
provide opinion
of situation
Focus on
anthropometrical
data , ensuring it is
relevant to the
target market which
would be children.
Write a justified
and detailed
product
specification
Outline some
basic ideas
using rough
sketching to
mind map
thoughts.
YE
S
OCT
NO
Begin
sketchin
g using
inspirati
on and
researc
h to aid
in the
process
Fine line, highlight
and analyse
successful ideas
with scope for
development
against specification
Need
for
close-
up
mechan
ism
drawing
s?
Using peer
assessment and
client analyse
narrow the ideas
down and develop
further.
NOV
YE
S
NO
DEC
Do some
material
testing for the
biodegradable
aspect of my
product.
JAN FEB MAR APR
NO
YE
S
NO
YE
S
PRODUCTION PLAN Before starting my project I believe the most important factor in the success of
my product is my project plan. Here I have produced a time-scaled flow-diagram
to illustrate my entire design process. Using a specific project plan allows me to
time manage this project and maximise possible outcomes. This may not be
entirely accurate but gives a general guideline.

DESIGN RESEARCH
MANUFACTURER RESEARCH
This page gives an in depth research into three manufactures I contacted
requesting an answer to the questions I asked in the email below. They provided
information regarding their materials and the science behind them, this way I can
make an informed decision into which material I can use for my product.
I contacted three
manufactures of
biodegradable products via
email (Vegware, Bio-D and
Biopla) and asked them
questions regarding how their
specific material works. I can
use all this information to help
me make an informed decision
on which biodegradable
material is best to use for the
product I’m intending to make.
Getting an insight into how the
material on the market work
can help me develop, improve
or perhaps tweak my idea
appropriately to suit the needs
of my target market.
Vegeware, manufacture of
compostable products . They
wrote back saying it is
important to note the
difference between the term
'biodegradable' and
'compostable'. Biodegradable
can be a misleading term as it
doesn't specify a time for
breakdown. A wooden house
for
Vegware are a manufacture of eco friendly
catering disposables and food packaging.
compostable products spans cutlery through
to tableware, napkins hot and cold drink
cups, and takeaway packaging.
Bio-D promotes the use of
hypoallergenic, environmentally
responsible detergents they also do
compostable bin liners.
Biopla is a manufacturer of biodegradable
compostable material and bio plastic
products including vacuum moulding ,
blowing film, injection , foam and PLA
staple fibre
example is biodegradable but
can stand for generations.
Compostable items break
down quickly within a
composting environment
(heat, microbes, moisture etc)
and as such only compostable
items can be recycled with
food waste. Everything that is
compostable is biodegradable
but not everything that is
biodegradable is compostable.
All of Vegeware’s products are
certified compostable. This
means that they can be
recycled along with food waste
and under son trolled
composting conditions they
will break down in under 12
weeks.
MATERIALS
PLA: Made from corn starch,
tapioca roots, chips or
sugarcane. PLA can be used
as a compostable packaging
material, either cast, injection
moulded, or spun. Cups and
bags
have been made of this
material. In
the form of a film, it shrinks
upon heating, allowing it to be
used in shrink tunnels (a
heated tunnel mounted over or
around a conveyor systems so
items such as packaging, have
shrink film loosely applied with
heat, the film shrinks to fit
snugly around the wrapped
object). It is useful for
producing loose-fill packaging,
compost bags, food
packaging, and disposable
tableware. In the form of fibres
and non-woven textiles.
CPLA: A combination of PLA, chalk and other
biodegradable additives. Although CPLA has a high
molecular weight and high melting-point, it begins
breaking down into a low-molecular weight polymer, in
natural environments, after 5-6 months.
Complete decomposition after 12 months. When
composted with food garbage, it begins breaking down
into a low-molecular weight after 2 weeks. (this is an
ideal decomposition time for my product). CPLA is
made by made by fermenting cornstarch, cheese whey,
etc. with aliphatic polyester (e.g dicarboxylic acid or
glycol made from fermentation of glycerol). All are
renewable resources.
Bagasse: This is the dry fibrous residue left after sugar
cane fibre has been pressed. It is ideal for producing
tableware due to its strength, and can be considered a
tree-free paper. It is currently used as a bio fuel and in
the manufacture of pulp and building materials.
Agave bagasse is a similar material that consists of the
tissue of the blue agave after extraction of the sap. At
the moment this is used as an alternative to Plywood
and is used to make furniture.
It isn’t built to decompose so probably wouldn’t be the
best choice to be a material for my product.
Natureflex: Compostable cellophane made from
sustainably-sourced wood pulp. The manufacturing for
NatureFlex is based on the process used for both
Cellophane films and viscose fibres. To achieve the
required composting standards, the chemistry of the
process is altered during the development of the
NatureFlexfilm range.
Mulch film made from a PLA-blend
called bio-flex.
MANUFACTURE
R
FEEDBACK

CLIENT RESEARCH Using a survey I conduct research of what my client requires. I also establish the
needs of consumers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. I also investigating
the work of other designers in gardening innovation
This Grobal Self-Watering Planter retails
at $25 or £15.28 and is a contemporary
plant pot designed by Karim Rashid,
and comes in variety colours. It's selling
point is the fact that it’ self watering. The
Grobal product draws water and
nutrients from the reservoir into the soil
in the top chamber. Each Grobal egg-
shaped vessel is made from a high-
gloss plastic and available in a range of
Bottle Top Watering Spikes are ‘fill it
and leave it’ waterers. The water can
last up to 2 – 3 weeks. The Bottle Top
Watering Spike is one of the first, fully
automatic, weather or room temperature
controlled watering system. They utilise
discarded plastic drinks bottles, or
decorative green’ flasks as a reservoir.
Watering Spikes can be used indoors or
outdoors, for use in hanging baskets,
pot plants, patio pots etc.
Watering Spikes are an ideal ‘Holiday
Watering Solution’’. They retail at £4.00
each. I would try to implement the
practicality and versatility of this product
to mine.
…The only plant maintenance needed is
to periodically check the water level
through the in built indicator and refill
when needed through the front
'Nutriport'. This products low
maintenance yet aesthetic appeal I what
I need for my plant nutrient spike.
Perhaps I could also could consider
adding more features to the product. As
it stands it simply biodegrades providing
nutrients for the soil, but it also could
somehow provide a different use as
well.
The plant nanny is for a forgetful plant
owner or a frequent traveller. The Plant
Nanny Stakes are here to water the
plants and use your empty wine bottles.
You fill an empty wine bottle with water,
attach the threaded Plant Nanny Stake
and stick it into a pot. These plant
caretakers are designed to release just
the right amount of water into the soil by
gravity feed, keeping the roots of the
plant at the correct moisture level. Ideal
for any type of potted plant, with one
wine bottle allowing for up to 7 days of
water for a 1-gallon pot. A set of four
can be bought for £10.36.
SAFETY ISSUES
Safety is fundamental to the design of
products, especially as the product is for
children. |Firstly there’s the hazards
during the manufacturing to the workers
and such, use, maintenance, cleaning
I did a sample of 10 sample parents going to and
coming out of a garden centre. Generally , they
placed health and safety as well as practicality in
the top priority position for what they thought would
be the most important element to the product.
When talking to a few children they preferred the
idea of something more aesthetically pleasing ,
something associated with a character and
colourful, they didn’t really care about the function
aspect.
Most of the response received in regard to weather
the children get involved with gardening was no,
when asked to elaborate they said there’s nothing
really to get involved to. The market for children
gardening products is slim. Some said they would
buy the product if it was reasonably priced,
however, there needs to be some other practical
aspect to the product to be completely sold. To
MANUFACTURER NEEDS
The needs of a manufacture who
produces this product on a mass
scale is really material dependent.
If the material is made of some
sort of liquid which dried (for
example art mache, a paper liquid
which can be moulded or a simple
biodegradable mix of water heat
and corn flour which would be
cheaper to sell and manufacture)
then the best machinery which
could mass produce the product
efficiently would be injection
moulding . The specification in
terms of size would be something
which doesn’t exceed a height of
60 mm and a width of 30mm and
colour would be added in the
mixture as required. (the same
shape but with different colours)
Hand made on a small scale the
mixture can be poured into
previous made moulds which
would be a standard component,
though this would not be efficient
time or money wise.
RETAILER NEEDS
The retailer would need to market
the product correctly as it would
not be all clear what it would be. It
would need to be packaged and
labelled clearly on a stand which
makes it clear it’s a children's
product, the environmental
benefits and the biodegradability.
The retailer would probably need
to test the product first to make
sure it sells, therefore only buying
a small sample. This is a reason
NEED OF
CONSUMERS
By conducting
an interview
with both the
potential user of
the product (a
child) and the
buyer of the
product (the
parent/
guardian). I was
able to draft the
following criteria
necessary to
take into
account when
designing my
product….
For example the size of my product, small pieces
could cause a choking hazards. During all phases
of design, production, storage, marketing,
distribution and use of products, the hazards should
be identified, risks assessments should be recorded
and action should be taken to reduce or eliminate
the risks to people’s health and safety.

CLIENT RESEARCH
(CONT.)
Obtaining details such as sizes, environment, cost, Anthropometrics and
ergonomics. I also address legislations such as British standards regarding this field.
I’ll include exploration of current market trends and consider relevant social, moral,
environmental, cultural and sustainability issues.
SIZES
Seeing as the product is intended for
children, the sizes have to be universally
specific to be in able to be used for all
children. The product has to be reasonably
small. I specified that a maximum width
shouldn’t exceed 100mm and the width
50mm. Specific specifications are
subjective to the design of the product, but
general limits can be specified. The product
can’t be too small otherwise children would
find it hard to use. Compared with other
children's products, it has to be reasonably
bulky and easy to grip but not too big.
Although this is specific to adults, the
anthropometrics could still be useful to create a
universal product used by children and adults.
ENVRONMENT
The environmental aspect is one of the major
components of this product. With all the
campaigning towards encouraging children to
be more environmentally friendly, this
product needs to contain information on the
products benefits to the environment. The
naturally biodegradable aspect is of course
environmental but there’s also the packaging
and manufacturing, even the transportation
all needs to fit with the products image of
being ‘environmentally beneficial’. For
example, it needs to be made sure
transportation is cut down as it possibly can
be, materials are all sourced sustainably and
used efficiently with minimum wastage.
Chemical waste should be cut down as there
isn’t any harmful materials being processed.
The packaging of the product needs to have
environmental associations. The only issue is
the delicate product needs to be protected,
COST
Making sure all materials used in the
product are sustainable etc. may prove to
be costly as well as the machinery. The
manufacturing of the product will prove
economically beneficial in the long run as
products can be mass produced time
effectively and efficiently. Perhaps a
biodegradable yet cheap product will prove
more cost effective for my product.
Taking the example of the manufacturing
production expenses with relation to the
product I am planning to manufacture, we
can see what can be reduced or expanded
according to our needs. For example, the
most costly would be circulation cost and
manufacturing and distribution. This can be
perhaps produced by locating factories
close to retailers to reduce distribution
costs. Advertising expenses wouldn’t be
necessary it’s a small product. However,
free advertising can still be implemented,
for example free online social media can
spread the message equally fast and free
as TV advertising and print can.
ANTHROPROMETRICS
This should be a compact product however
ERGONOMICS
What will assure that the product is
ergonomic will be based on the
anthropometrics most of all, but what will
also make the difference would be the
gripping action. The shape will make the
product easily fit into the soil, depending
how the child can hold it without slipping.
Some sort of curvature needs to be
associated to allow for this to happen.
SOCIAL ISSUES
Social issues take advantage of the
current social status. For example the
government is paying more attention to
environmental campaigns, especially
groups who advertise to get involved with
nature, and get children to reform their
own gardening space. Being more
environmentally aware is a big social
issue right now, so my product benefits
from this factor.
MORAL ISSUES
Moral issues cover the way that design
and manufacture of things affect the
safety, comfort and well being of people
who come into contact with our designs.
This could include the designer
CULTURAL ISSUES
When designing the product it must be
considered that particular shapes,
colours, words and images can have
different meanings to different groups
of people for example there’s religious
beliefs that need to be considered, so
the product must not have any
offensive surface pattern or not be in a
offensive shape and this has to also be
a consideration when thinking about
political views , sexuality, personal
choices and beliefs ( for example
vegetarianism) and traditions.
Universal factors need to be thought
out for example something that means
something in one part of the world may
not mean the same in another.
SUSTAINABLITY ISSUES
A sustainable product is one that is
manufactured with little of no negative
impact on the environment and on the
health and well being of the workers
employed to make the product. Some
examples of sustainability incorporated
into a product would be one which has
organic, biodegradable, reclaimed and
recycled materials. My product focuses
on biodegradability, so the most likely
material chosen will be organic and
toxic chemicals won’t be used. To
reduce carbon emissions the solution
as mentioned before would be to keep
A
diagram
detailing
the life
cycle of
making
a
product.

CRITERIA
PURPOSE
1.1- The purpose of this product is to
biodegrade into the soil leaving behind
nutrients for the soil and plants. It needs to be
an environmentally aware product.
1.2- To have bright and bold colours to appeal
to the target market of young children, so
children get interested in maintaining their own
natural microcosm gardens. If not this it needs
to be an interesting shape to still appeal to the
younger audience.
FUNCTION
2.1- To act as plant food and nutrients for the
garden.
2.2- To be aesthetically pleasing to a young
audience.
2.3- It also has to be anthropometric according
to the child's grip.
PERFORMANCE
3.1- It needs to successfully biodegrade.
3.2- Needs to provide the nutrients for the soil,
all in a reasonable time space.
3.3- It needs to be easy to use and simple for
children, so it needs to be durable to an extent
,at the same time. (built to decompose but not
just break easily).
SIZE/WEIGHT
4.1- This should be a compact product
however not too small that children cannot use
it. The maximum height of the product should
not exceed 100mm and the width 50mm. In
terms of the depth of the product it should be
approximately 30mm. The weight should be
sturdy enough to pierce the soil but not too
heavy for children, depending weather it would
be hollow or solid, the weight still varies.
ERGONOMICS
5.1- This product should be designed
according to the needs of children.
5.2- The product should fit with the finger and
thumb well according to children's hands.
5.3- It has to be easy to pierce into the soil.
PRODUCTION MEATHODS
7.1- The basic shape would have been
moulded using a die cast method, so that
each shape would be the same and
consistent. This would be produced using
machinery.
7.2- Any external pattern added on the
product surface l would be done using
something like pad printing or maybe even
double shot injection moulding if any other
surfaces would be raised.
ASSEMBLY
8.1- In terms of assembly there isn't much
to put together apart from maybe if the
product was in two half's and they are
moulded and pressed together with heat .
8.2- If there’s any other external pieces to
mould to the product such as a design or
maybe an extra piece it would probably be
done at this stage, but it isn't essential.
FINISH
9.1- Adding patterns and stickers ect.
There isn’t much of a further finish to be
added. Either way whatever colour or
decoration externally needs to be
compostable so there’s not many avenues
to explore.
9.2- Then the edges can be smoothed off t
the end to give a professional finish.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
10.1- Its actually quite important that the
edge are smoothly cut and not too sharp,
otherwise the user can possible cut
themselves whilst using the product. Also
especially if they’re a child.
10.2- The manufacture would of have to
make sure the piece of plastic would be a
solid piece ,without separate small pieces
falling off it.
10.3- The material used, must be safe for
the user as well.
QUALITY/ STANDARDS/TESTING
11.1-To test the quality of the product the
In this page I’m addressing everything the manufacture would have when producing
this product. I’m stating things that the product should have, what the product would
have and what the product could have when I am improving the product myself.
11.3- Whether the product biodegrades in
the small time frame it needs to.
MAINTENANCE
12.1- As there’s nothing electronic
involved in this model, the manufacture
wouldn’t have to worry about
maintenance, there’s not components
that need to be replaced.
12.2-The product isn’t built to last, its built
in obsolescence.
TARGET MARKET REQUIRMENTS
13.1- The simplicity of this product mean
that it’s a very universal. Plus this doesn’t
have to be purely for children, it can be
expanded as a range of gardening
products
13.2- As a child is using the product extra
surface area and gripping surface is
needed.
13.3- It needs to be ergonomic in terms of
putting it easily in the soil but not too
sharp that it will be unusable for young
children .
AESTHETICS
14.1- The product needs to be
aesthetically interesting with different
colours or and shapes to especially
appeal to children.
14.2- To keep a smooth professional
finish I would like to avoid any ridged
surfaces or shapes.
VALUE ISSUES
15.1- If the manufacture decided to do
some sort of picture printed on the
surface, it can’t offence to any culture or
within society. This is the same with
shape.
15.2- In terms of environmental aspects,
it’s already strongly attached to the idea
of being compostable and
environmentally friendly.
15.3- Has the product been made in a
moral way? (The more likely way this
COST OF PRODUCTION
16.3- In order to produce this product to make a
substantial profit, the material used needs to be
cheap, but also be able to work.
Because of the paper mulch type material |I’ll
inevitably use, its likely to be cheap, however if I
use more of a specialist material it could cost a bit
more.
16.4- Due to very few steps of production, apart
from machinery, this product can be cheap to
produce in it’s simplest form. Currently on the
market they approximately retail about 3p for each
small fertiliser spike, my product will be slightly
bigger and will cost more.
RETAIL
17.1- The manufacture needs to take into account
where his product will sell and for what price.
17.2- If the product has a particular design on the
surface it can be sold in perhaps more fashionable
and quirky shops. If it were to be sold in its simplest
form it could remain to be solely sold in garden
centre type shops.
17.3- Home wear shops sell more specialist items,
if the manufacture has made the product, it can be
sold at a higher price, packaged and presented
professionally opposed to just the raw product on
its own.
VIDEO 1: A child talk about his current
standing with the gardening market .

INITIAL IDEAS
In this page I’m exploring unique ways in which I can develop my idea, focusing on
innovation and aesthetics . I want my product to appeal to children, so colour and
shape is a key element, however, the ergonomics and practical aspect also has to
be present.These
three
ideas are
mainly
based
upon
aesthetic
value.
This is
because
the
product is
specificall
y aimed at
children.
Although it
has to be
taken into
account
how these
complex
shapes
will be
manufactu
red on a
large
scale . As
a one off it
will be
easy but
on mass
production
heavy
machinery
will have
to carry
out
processes
such as
die cast
and
injection
moulding
would be
most likely
This ‘palm tree’ like design fro the
product adds to its use, whilst being
compostable plant food it also
catches the rain by extending its
limbs out of the flower bed/plant
pot, the only issue here is weather
the material used can be durable for
The leaf design allows the product to blend in with its surroundings, this is an environmental
benefit because it will not look like anything unnatural to garden wildlife. The ‘dragonesque’
type product on the right can be aesthetically beneficial fro children as well as cover a larger
surface are to provide nutrients for the soil
The
hollow
funnel like
shape
allows for
further
precipitati
on to be
concentrat
ed on
where the
product
was
placed. It’s
long tem
also
allows it to
be secure
where its
pieced,
adding an
element of
ergonomic
. The tiny
pellets in
the shape
of little
creatures
for the
child's
benefit,
can be
spread
across a
larger
surface
are and
will
biodegrad
e quickly.

INITIAL IDEAS
(CONTINUED)
CONT. In this page I’m exploring unique ways in which I can develop my idea,
focusing on innovation and aesthetics . I want my product to appeal to children, so
colour and shape is a key element, however, the ergonomics and practical aspect
also has to be present.
The first
idea
focuses
on the
aesthetic
appeal
whilst the
one below
that
focuses
more on
the
ergonomic
s and
anthropom
etrics
needed for
the child
to be able
to use the
product
easily.
The one
directly
below that
may not
be
aesthetical
ly
appealing
for the
child,
however,
it ‘s
practical
and
provides
that extra
feature of
wrapping
and
adjusting
around the
plant pot.
This also
covers the
most
This fan
idea at the
top works
in both
ways.
Obviously
it is built in
obsolesce
nce and
therefore
biodegrad
es over a
certain
time, but
also it
expands
out to
catch
extra
precipitati
on, it can
also fold in
so can be
stored
easily ask
well
without
damage
done to its
‘wings’.
The
pincers
allows
room for
innovation
, for
example,
each limb
could
have a
different
nutrient
treated in
t, and
because
of its
The starfish design can spread through a large surface are, as well as there’s room for aesthetic
improvement as surface decoration and pattern can be added to appeal to children, room for marketing
movement. The small spikes with a model on the top can compost quickly and would be cheap to
produce because of its size. Below that and the honeycomb shape as well as the branch again all focus
on that aesthetic element, but specifically fitting in with the natural environment

CONSUMER FEEDBACK
This page will help me develop my product further as I gain feedback from potential
consumers (including children and their parents). This will help me decide what
initial ideas I should develop further and improvements I should initiate.
INITIAL IDEAS 1: This page focuses more on the childish aesthetic
side of the product, focussing on shape rather than practicality.
These designs are more likely to appeal to children rather than
adults. However, this could be an advantage as the product is for
children itself, and it’s supposed to encourage children to garden.
INITIAL IDEAS 2: This second page focuses on a more practical side,
for example the idea shown at the bottom right serves a practical
purpose, it covers more surface area and it’s simple to use (making the
product appeal to adults) however it’s not very aesthetically pleasing to
INTERVEIW WITH CONSUMER (CHILD)
I did two interview, one with a parent and
another with a child. Both gave very
different opinions that contrasted. In
terms of which initial ideas the child liked.
FEEDBACK
•The child liked all of the products which
were aesthetically pleasing, he didn’t pay
much notice to the ones which had more
of a practical appeal, he wanted the ‘toy
appeal’ to b in the product.
IMPROVEMENTS
•As my product is for children, it clearly
needs to appeal to them, the product is
practical but more about encouraging
environmental awareness and gardening
to children, it needs to have the appeal of
a toy- but at the same time be a product
that will appeal to adults as a practical
gardening fertilizer and garden
accessory. I need to make sure the initial
idea I develop has that appeal to young
children as almost a toy does.
INTERVEIW WITH CONSUMER
(PARENT)
As I did a interview with a parent, I found
there was a stark contrast in what both
parties desire in the product…
FEEDBACK
•The adult asked a lot more questions
regarding the practical uses for the
product, and aesthetically gravitated to
more of a contemporary look rather than
childish. They understood it was children
but the practical aspect needs to be
clearer. The look of the fan shaped
product appealed the most to the adult.
IMPROVEMENTS
•As mentioned before the practical uses
need to be made clear. This is something
I’ll have to address on the packaging of
INTERVEIW WITH RETAILER
I also did an interview with a potential retailer of my product, a
local garden centre. I asked one of the higher members of the
workforce on their opinions towards my potential marketable
design ideas.
FEEDBACK
•One of the significant things they said was that the ideas needs
to look unique, amongst the shelves competing with other
potential products, it needs to stand out the consumer. In this
aspect they liked the fact it was marketed towards children
because there was design potential to make it colourful and
aesthetically pleasing.
•They were most gravitated by the interesting shapes, like the
beehive pentagon shapes, things that would look most
appealing to the customer, however in terms of a more practical
and ergonomic use they liked the idea of the product which
ringed round the interior of the pot.
IMPROVEMENTS
•The consensus amongst all parties I interviewed would be the
fact that they all want a more refined practical use. As well as
the aesthetic value.
VIDEO 2: This is a short
video interview with a child
on what they desire from
the product and what's on
their agenda
Adults want something modern, contemporary and aesthetically
appealing in their gardens, but this product is for children it must
appeal to them at the same time using interesting colour and shape.

MATRIX This page will help me assess the ideas I have as well as choosing a final product.. It will help me establish what further
developments I need to make to my initial ideas against my specification. A red and green colour used illustrates negative and
positive points about each product.
Weight
This would be a strip
that lines the pot-
reasonably weightless
Depending whether it’s
hollow or solid and
what material , weight
of this product could be
hefty.
As these are small
they won’t weigh a lot
Like the person figure this
product could potentially be
hefty in weight.
The thin fan like structure
at the top of this initial
idea allows this product to
be lightweight .
The thin branch structure will
allow minimal weight to be
spread across the products.
Ergonomics
For children this product
could prove difficult to
use
Easily used by children,
simple.
Again, simple
mechanism allow
children to use this
product
This could involve burying
into the soil which could
require adult assistance.
Easily pierced into soil. Easily pierces into soil.
Anthropometr
ics
This thin structure could
be difficult for young
children to work with.
The chunkiness on this
product allow children
to grip it like children's
toys.
This may be too small
for children to use,
their hands won’t be
accustomed to it.
The toy like hardiness of this
product will allow children to
easily hold and grip this
product to use.
Core of product can be
edited chunkier to make
the product more
graspable by young
children.
May be too thin for children to
hold with ease.
Aesthetics
Not very aesthetically
exciting.
Interesting to children,
different shape.
Colourful and
interesting ,known
shapes are used.
A unique design to appeal to
young children, animal
concept was liked
This is still interesting with
shape but not colour for
children.
Interesting aesthetically but
possibly not for children.
Biodegradabil
ity
Will quickly biodegrade
and evenly around the
pot.
May not biodegrade
quick enough due to
size, material
dependant.
Small and will
biodegrade easily and
quickly making it a
reasonably disposable
product.
Like the person shape also
may take time to adequately
biodegrade.
Thin top will biodegrade
easily
Thin branches will
biodegrade easily,
Function
This will biodegrade in
the adequate time space
providing nutrients to the
soil and fulfilling its
function.
May not easily
biodegrade quickly and
therefore not fulfilling its
function.
Small, will biodegrade,
but perhaps too
quickly?
Will evenly biodegrade
throughout the soil.
Provides additional
function of water catcher
as well as biodegrading
nutrients
Material subjective like the
rest, thin shapes will
biodegrade easily
Cost
May be the least costly
to manufacture due to
the simple strip shape.
The cost of machinery
:die cast/ injection
moulding my be
substantial but pay off
in mass manufacturing.
Low cost, small. The cost of machinery
:injection moulding my be
substantial but pay off in
mass manufacturing.
Complex structure may
cost more to produce
The cost of machinery :die
cast/ injection moulding my
be substantial but pay off in
mass manufacturing.
Manufacturin
g Processes
The material would be in
sheets and then
sheared, this may be a
complex process involve
For putty like masses,
compression moulding
can be used, one of the
lowest cost moulding
New manufacturing
processes like 3D
printing can be utilised
for these small
A process such as shell
moulding may be used to
create a non-metal cast. Low
labour requirements.
This would involve two
parts, a flat cut sheet
attached to a blow
moulded core. Complex?
Rotation moulding could
possibly used however this is
a slow process.

MODELLING DEVELOPMENT
Photos and videos showing my physical models as well CAD
with areas to develop for final idea.
This page clarifies any mechanisms/movement that the
product may have and mentions what materials and tools were
used ,relevance to specification/research is mentioned, and
scales of ideas as well as function.
To make these physical models foam and scalpel was used to create
the desired shape. Foam is lightweight and easy to sculpt creating an
easy method to portray my design ideas as a physical model
including accurate scale and dimensions. I can use these lightweight
physical models to help create a more anthropometric as well as
ergonomic product for children.
BENEFITS OF USING PHYSICAL MODELLING
You have a three dimensional easily and easily adjustable physical
model of your idea. They can be therefore tested against specification
in terms of ergonomics and anthropometrics of a hand, by getting a
child to hold it.
DISADVANTAGES OF USING PHYSICAL MODELLING
The disadvantages of using a physical model would be the cost and
waste of resources as well as human error not being able to repair
any mistakes made. (A computer software can easily re-do mistakes
whereas a physical model cannot.
PHYSICAL MODEL 1
Aesthetically interesting appealing to both children and adults, the
bulky shape on the ‘stem’ makes it easy for children to hold and use.
However the size of the product may prove to be too long to
biodegrade, as well as cost of manufacturing.
PHISICAL MODEL 2
The function and practicality aspect of this product is prominent, it
pierces into the soil proving efficient nutrients. However, the appeal to
children and ergonomics and anthropometric consideration isn’t
there. The child can easily hold this product or use, let alone be
aesthetically interested in it.
PHYSICAL MODEL 3
This focuses on the ergonomic side of the product as children can
easily hold on to it as it’s shape is bulky enabling small hand to grip
onto it. However, the large complex shapes that are hexagonal may
be costly to manufacture on a large scale. Also, although it has an
aesthetic appeal to on audience, being a more mature one, it doesn’t
aesthetically appeal to mine, that being children.
PHYSICAL MODEL 4
This is the product that aesthetically appeals the most to children
PHYSICAL MODEL
1
PHYSICAL MODEL
2
PHYSICAL MODEL
3
PHYSICAL MODEL
4

MODELLING
DEVELOPMENT (CONT.)
Photos and videos showing my physical models as well CAD with areas to
develop for final idea.
This page clarifies any mechanisms/movement that the product may have and
mentions what materials and tools were used ,relevance to
specification/research is mentioned, and scales of ideas as well as function.
CAD MODEL 1
CAD MODEL 2
CAD MODEL 3
Using a CAD software like Google Sketchup enables my design ideas
to be visually represented in a 3D format without resources being
wasted. It’s a more cost efficient way to present my ideas further
developed from a two dimensional drawing using still accurate
dimensions and visualisation next to a plant pot.
BENEFITS OF USING CAD
•Higher productivity rate, less time consumed making physical
products.
•Higher accuracy. Human error when physically modelling can lead to
mistakes, however when using computer software mistakes an be
reversed and models can be copied and repeated.
DISADVANTAGES OF USING CAD
•The need to learn a new software.
•Not as flexible as physically modelling with your own hands.
•Can be (not always) an expensive software which requires expertise.
CAD MODEL 1
Simplistic shape. May prove ergonomically difficult for child to use as
the product would be hard to pierce into the soil and child may hurt
themselves trying. Too boring to actually develop any further.
CAD MODEL 2
The interesting an d natural shape would appeal to adults as it fits in
with the garden theme. However the complex shape would probably
be complex and costly to manufacture on a mass scale making this a
poor economic choice for developing the idea.
CAD MODEL 3
This idea produces a secondary function which appeals to both adults
and can be aesthetically altered to appeal to children as well. The
hollow stem and the fan shape is also a concentrated water catcher
which concentrates the flow to the roots, and of course the
biodegradable aspect would be incorporated also. This product can
be developed further to make it appeal to children in a better way.QUICK PEER ASSESSMENT
AUDIO 1: This is a quick sound recording of one of my peers underlining
some feedback on both my physical and CAD modelling. They talk about
possible ones I should develop further as well as any additional
improvements I could also incorporate. Double click play button to hear
the audio.

MATERIAL TESTING
This page will document the process of creating a low cost
naturally biodegradable material and testing it against my
specification to help me create a mock up of my product
The materials I used to test
the homemade biodegradable
material is a mixture using
water, corn flour and oil. Corn
flour being a natural nutrient
material to the soil.
Firstly I mix the mixture of
water and flour well, producing
a thin even consistency to
prevent their being lumps in
the final mock up of the
product.
After it’s become an even
liquidly texture it means all
bubbles have been
eradicated, creating a
smoother medium.
I add oil to the mixture which
will act as the binder to the
solution. This prevents
cracking when the mixture
dries and strengthens the
model.
1. 2. 3. 4.
Mix vigorously .
Heat up 30 seconds in the
microwave to turn liquid into
solid.
The mixture has hardened, as
it’s hot it needs to be left to
rest
Cool water can be added to
soften the mixture if too hard.
5. 6. 7. 8.
Mixture has been kneaded so
that its smooth throughout.
Add more oil to the mixture to
act as that binding agent
otherwise the model will dry
Mould into shape using mixture. Now wait about three days for
the product to dry throughout and come back to test material
against specifications.
9. 10. 11. 12.
VIDEO 3; This video shows how two weeks have
affected the model. For mass manufacture and a
more professional outcome I may consider using a
material like polymorph which is made from
styrofoam melted in acetone or gas mixed with milk
and vinegar. It is a plastic which melts at around 60
degrees C, so you can melt it in hot water and
mould. It sets again when it cools and is probably
as tough as nylon or some other domestic plastic.
It’s fully biodegradable and non-toxic
13.
After 2 weeks the material is beginning
to show signs of decomposition, with a
weak crumbly texture rather than a
hardened one. It’s lifespan can be
prolonged by adding more oil. But this

FINAL PRODUCT
DEVELOPMENT
This page will indicate all the improvements and
development of my final idea. This page should also
underline specific details such as dimensions in mm.
PROPOSAL
My final product proposal would be to incorporate a Japanese
folding fan mechanisms for the top ‘water catcher part of the
product. That can easily be folded and stored attached to the
hollow tube. The papery material which would be a naturally
decomposing and biodegradable material will disintegrate quickly,
leaving the biodegradable tube left to decompose.
MATERIALS FOR FINAL PRODUCT
Top of the product, the fan part will be represented by a paper
folding fan material. The paper would be strong enough to
concentrate rain water yet be weak enough to decompose.
Wooden stick will help support this structure . The bottom will be a
hollow plastic tube. Similar to the biodegradable material I made out
of oil corn-flour and water mixture as it accurately biodegraded.
AESTHETIC
Not forgetting that the purpose of the product is to engage children
in looking after their own gardens and getting involved with the
environment, the product still needs to be developed to become
aesthetically pleasing.
IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER WHILST DEVELOPING
FINAL PRODUCT
•Needs to still be aesthetically pleasing to children
•Children anthropometrics need to be taken into account
•Needs to be lightweight
•Should fold effectively so it can be stored.
DIMENTIONS
This anthropometric detail
can be useful in developing
accurate dimensions for my
biodegradable fan. All the
data applies to the hand
which is the primary part that
will be used in working the
My This sculptural stainless
steel and teak water catcher
will gather rain— saving water
and repeated trips to the
kitchen sink. Just rock it
forward and its spout will fill
your watering cans
Petal Drop rain
catchers. fit onto
the top of empty
plastic bottles.
When they’re full,
use the water on
the plants.
WATER CATCHER ELEMENT
My final product has a water catcher element that’s now playing an
important role as a purpose of my product. I did some brief research
into water catchers currently on the market so I can brainstorm
developments for mine.
A rain barrel that makes
saving water easy by providing
a watering can that is
automatically filled when it
rains. So the user doesn't
have to fill the can with our
precious tap water, but uses
'free' rainwater instead.
The proposal for my final developed product is for the fan part to have surface decoration
that will appeal to children (or colour). The stalk, or tube that pierces into the soil will be
biodegradable however the fan piece will not. This means in the space of to weeks the tube
will have biodegraded ;leaving the fan for children to keep as novelty item. The holes on
each layer insured the water fed through gets distributed evenly and the shape is bulky and

FINAL PRODUCT
DEVELOPMENT CONT.
This page will illustrate the final idea for my product
thought working drawings and cad modelling.
TOP
VIEW
LEFT
VIEW
ISOMETRICVIEW
BOTTOM VIEW
BACK VIEW
CAD FINAL DRAFT OF
PRODUCT
These drawings and final models help with the development of
my final product, especially the dimensions that are underlined
in the isometric drawings. The mechanism used to attach the
fan part to the stalk are wooden stick with ball shapes on the
end. This allows the fan to be adjusted back and forward left
and right and can easily be clicked off at the same time. The
wooden sticks will run all the way through the plastic fan part
under each fold so the whole structure remains stable.
These CAD models
help illustrate the 3
dimensional feel of
my final proposed
idea. Upon reading
about developing the
materials I could use
the most practical
solution could
possibly be
polymorph- as
polymorph is
completely
biodegradable in soil
conditions and is
100% non-toxic.
Using a material like
polymorph -
-could mean the
product is more
durable and doesn’t
have to be made in
obsolescence, it
would be easier to
work with in terms of
mass production and
can be fortified with
plant food to still
benefit the soil. The
polymorph is also

ORTHOGRAPHIC
DRAWING
Large orthographic drawing of my final idea.
Measurements are in millimetres.
90
10
60
16
20
10
80

DEVELOPMENT AND
MANUFACTURE
This page will underline the major developments that have took
place in my proposed final idea so far in the project and also he
beginning of my manufacturing and making process of my final
product.
This was my first initial proposed
idea for the product. The whole
product was meant to be built in
obsolescence all dissolving
eventually into the soil, this was a
spin of my initial proposed idea
with primarily one function of
naturally biodegrading providing
plant food to the soil but this also
acted as a water catcher.
This was my CAD development
side of the product where I
modelled proposed ideas as this
point appeals to both adults . The
hollow stem and the fan shape is
also a concentrated water
catcher which concentrates the
flow to the roots, and of course
the biodegradable aspect would
be incorporated also. But
aesthetically it wouldn’t interest
children.
The proposal for my final
developed product is for the fan
part to have surface decoration
that will appeal to children. The
stalk, or tube that pierces into the
soil will be biodegradable
however the fan piece will not.
This means in the space of to
weeks the tube will have
biodegraded ;leaving the fan for
children to keep as novelty item.The proposal for my final
developed product is for the fan
part to have surface decoration
that will appeal to children. The
stalk, or tube that pierces into the
soil will be biodegradable
however the fan piece will not.
This means in the space of to
weeks the tube will have
biodegraded ;leaving the fan for
children to keep as novelty item.
The development on the CAD
model was how the fan part can
be adjusted back and forward left
and right and can easily be
clicked off at the same time. Also
I propose a material change to
polymorph as it’s non-toxic to
children, biodegradable in soil
and easier to manufacture.
Through injection moulding.
MANUFACTURING AND MAKING PROCESS
I have decided to
manufacture this
product (the
stalk part)
through
aluminium
moulding, to
create this mould
I make the
shape out of
foam to cast
around. In order
for the model to
be easily worked
with and for the
process of
documenting
dimensions are
all 2x
1.
If any human error
occurs whilst
creating the cast for
the model, I have
made two of the
same just in case.
These foam models
will melt away whilst
creating the cavity
for the mould, in
which the polymorph
can be pressed into.
2.
I used a scroll saw
to cut the curved
shapes out easily.
Using a hand saw
would be too
labour intensive
and wouldn’t
accurately cut the
curved shape.
Also the fine blade
gave an extra
added accuracy to
the cutting.
3.
In order to get the
rounded shape that I
require for my product
I use both files and
sandpaper to achieve
this intended shape.
Some of the ends of
the product could be
lightly sanded with a
band saw to get that
rounded shape,
however the inner
4.
-with the flat sander,
therefore manual
techniques needed
to be used for the
part. Using different
sized grains of
sandpaper helped ix
the rougher surface
created via filing
5.
Now the shape is
ready to b used for
making the cast. A
cast generally would
be more of a
efficient way of
mass manufacturing
this product, to get a
consistent product
without excessive
human labour. Most
likely an injection
moulding machine
would press the
plastic into the
mould.
6. 10.
11.7. I first tested the
polymorph and foam
together to see I can
make a mould. The
foam stuck to the
surface of the
polymorph so this
wasn’t a viable option.
I would have to make
a separate mould to
the polymorph to go in
later.
8.
Next I thought a more
permanent cast would
be aluminium, and as I
had two models, I
tested aluminium
casting with my
product. First I
moulded oil based
sand around the foam
model tightly . I used a
sieve with the sand to
make sure the grain
was fine and moulded
9. Once I had filled the
casting square
around my foam
model is was time to
pour in the metal.
The foam, would
melt away when the
metal is poured on
top, leaving the
metal to fill the gap
of where my model
was creating the
cast.
Once the metal is
adequately melted I
use the handle to
slowly and carefully
pour the material
into the sand mould
I’ve poured the
metal, now I must
leave it to cool for at
least two hours,
Some of the
aluminium has
leaked out the
bottom of the mould
but hopefully hasn't
affected my initial
cast.
EVALUATION:
Though the metal
cast shows an ease
in the manufacturing
process, it is a one
of- once the foam
has been melted off
the cast cannot be
used again. Also
aluminium is durable
but doesn’t fit in my
product
specifications, it’s
heavy and doesn’t
12.
This test can be used
to assist me in
packaging my final
product without

DEVELOPMENT AND
MANUFACTURE CONT.
(continuation) This page will underline the major developments
that have took place in my proposed ideas manufacturing and
making process of my final product. I’ve documented the whole
process so it’s easy to evaluate which stages went well or
where I encountered issues of manufacturing.
I set out to create a
more permanent
mould so I can test
different materials in it,
firstly, the mould
needed to be able to
accommodate a lot of
materials, to the
surface had to be a
non-stick surface for
the moulded object to
slip out with ease.
This is similar to non-
stick silicon cake trays
where it’s easy to pop
the baked product out
the mould-
-In order to do this I
lined the foam model
with latex liquid. The
latex formula
consisted of liquid
latex and thickener so
it can be easily
painted on. Whilst
holding the product I
couldn’t cover the
surface with the
mixture as my fingers
were getting in the
way I then poked a
stick through the top
so I had a-
-temporary hold on the
model, and I could
cover the whole
surface with latex. It
was painted on in
several layer, before
more layers could be
added on, each layer
was hand dried with a
hair dryer by myself in
order to speed up the
process and use time
effectively.
After I had painted
and dried several
layers onto the model
I waited for a day for it
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19
20.
21.
22.13. I added several pieces
around the latex
mould so it would be
easier to work with,
the light art roc will
cover the latex mould
holding everything in
place, creating a more
permanent fixture.
After wrapping several
layers of art roc
around the latex
mould I used a band
saw to carefully cut
the mould in half so I
would have two half's I
could work with,
before sticking them
both together.
The completely dry
latex was thick
enough to be
stretched and bent
without losing it
shape. Therefore the
latex mould could be
taken out of the art roc
base and the
temporary foam
template could be
easily popped out of
the mould to be filled
with my material.
STRENGTHS OF MY
MOULD:
Some positives would
be that my mould can
now be reused again
and again by filling it
with different materials
other than my
proposed polymorph,
which can be useful if
I want to test other
materials. The latex is
waterproof and flexible
24.
25.
23.
26.
27.
28
29.
30.
After heating the
granules of polymorph
I worked with it
packing it tightly into
the mould, it didn’t
take long for it to set
and after I had my two
pieces of the product I
set out to file and sand
any imperfections that
had been made
originally with my
mould.
Using machinery in
mass production this
wouldn’t be a stage
reducing labour and
time to manufacture
the final product.
The plastic pieces
were easy to stick
together using a band
facer, which melted
the halves together
using friction. This
saved me using a non
biodegradable
adhesive that could be
potentially harmful to
the environment.
Polymorph is
biodegradable, and
can be mixed with any
material such as plant
nutrient pellets to help
the plants etc. In my
prototype I have
decided not to mix any
external pant feeder
into my polymorph
because I wish to
separately layer this
on when naturally
colouring the product.
I now needed a core
I will later drill holes
around my product
like in my design so
rain/ precipitation can
be drained equally into
the soil when the
product in pierced into
the ground.
I mixed plant food
spikes which I ground
down to create a fine
powder, safe food
colouring and corn
flour (also good for the
plants) to create a
colour mix I could
paint on top of my
product. I did this so I
could provide a
natural looking
product with earthy
colours, that look
aesthetically batter
than a plain one, and
also to add some
extra plant nutrient on
top of the
biodegradable
polymorph.
Now I move on to
constructing the fan
part of my product. I
use light bamboo and
thin sheet polymer. I
carefully sliced slits
into the bamboo so I
can slide in the sheets
of cut plastic. I also
sand now the ends of
the bamboo so I have
a good angle to stick
the fan extension onto
the base of my
product. I also cut
bamboo pieces to be
stuck onto the top on
the fan where the thin
plastic is bare. I did
this as a safety
precaution to provide
a round edge so
children do now cut

FINAL PRODUCT AND
MARKETING
I talk through the final stages of my product and marketing . I
will talk about the unique selling points my product has, the
weaknesses and how to market it correctly taking it all into
consideration.
UNIQUE SELLING POINTS/ MARKETING
STRENGTHS
•Not any other product on the market.
•Aimed at children, products which tend to gardens do
not usually target children.
•Aesthetically individual, stands out, looks intriguing.
•Focuses on environmental protection, popular topic
amongst public.
MARKETING WEAKNESESS
•If not marketed correctly, there is hardly a market for
the product at all. Consumers would probably dismiss
the product as they will argue that they do not need it
or that these's no market for it. The problem I aimed to
solve whilst in the development for this product is that
there's a missing market for gardening products for
children, the environmental aspect is an extra selling
point- but if this isn’t marketed correctly the product
would never be successful on sale.
PROMOTING AND ADVERSTISING
Advertising is a good way to get the product across to
the public and raise awareness. However televised
advertising can be costly. A much more up and
coming method to advertise are short ads uploaded on
YouTube, which can often turn into widely successful
campaigns if done correctly . This is a non-cost way to
promote a new product. YouTube ads can also be
placed before successful videos. Other means of
advertising via technology could be relevant website
banner advertisements, an example relevant for my
product would be http://www.homebase.co.uk or
somewhere like
http://www.thegardencentregroup.co.uk/ which is in
charge of national local garden centres.
LOGOS
Some important things that I needed to consider whilst
making the logo was that it needed to incorporate an
attractive element that would appeal to children. At the
PRICE
The price of production is subjective to how much
machinery is used in mass manufacture. For
making a one off product like mine I used
approximately £15.00 work of materials excluding
labour and time costs. However, if my product was
mass manufactured, then this would be significantly
less as there would be a pre-made mould, possibly
using injection moulding and little human
intervention beside quality control, making my
product more affordable on market- approximately
£5.00 to make it both affordable and profitable.
MARKET COMPETITORS
I researched top retailers products and there’s no
product on the market which combines both a plant
feeder and watering system in one, especially not
aimed towards children, here’s some main
competitors:
31.
32.
33.
I used a glue gun to
secure the fan extension
onto the base. I made
sure that the angle was
such that if you pierced
the product into the
ground straight, the rain
would easily slide down
from the branches into
the hollow base, watering
the soil.
To make sure any rain
water is distributed evenly
throughout the soil I used
a handheld drill to drill
into the core of the base
several times creating a
sort of watering can
drainage system.
Waterproof plastic means
the product wouldn’t
dissolve. After adding
finishing touches, my final
product prototype is
complete.
Name: Plant dripper
Function: Waters plant
whilst owners are
away. Price: £16.94
Weaknesses:
Aesthetically dull ,cost,
only one function.
Strength: Practical,
stores more water .
Name: Plant feed
Function: Gives plants
nutrients.
Price: £6.99
Weaknesses: Not
actually a product, dull,
expensive for what it is.
Strength: Practical.
My logo (On the next page) here incorporates
everything I want the consumer to know about my
company: The colours are natural yet bright
denoting that its for children and my company
creates products that help the environment. The
simplistic shape is memorable and the name shows
that the product is for kids and environmentally

MARKETING (2)
I This page focuses on the promotional marketing side the
product. I will include a proposed leaflet design, and
packaging design and process.
This proposed
leaflet design can
be handed to
customers outside
garden centre
stores to raise
awareness of the
product. The
strong fun colours
appeal to children
and inform adults
the type of product
it is (via the strong
earthy colour
scheme showing
the products
association with
nature). I included
contact details on
the back of the
leaflet as well. This
design is versatile
and can be used
not only in leaflet
but packaging,
website ad
banners and other
means of
promotion.
FRONT
LEAFLET
DESIGN
INSIDE BACK
For the packaging I used the vacuum former. First I used
my previous aluminium model to mark out a shape on a
block of wood, I will use this cut piece of wood for the
plastic to vacuum form around as shown in the picture
above to he right.
I cut the
formed
plastic to
shape
making
sure my
product
before
sticking
on the
card
backing I
have
made.

MARKETING (3) Continues my packaging process and
design as well includes a short
advertisement mock up for my product.
Here’s the front and back of my packaging.. The front includes the name of the product, the logo and the recyclable
logo. I've kept it simplistic at the front as when the production shelf the consumer wouldn’t wanted to be bombarded
with unnecessary information, and this places more emphasis onto the product. The front also includes a Polythene
terephthalate (PET) logo, which indicates the material used for packaging, is 90% recyclable and the symbol
reminds the consumer of this fact. Hopefully the consumer will place the used packaging in the recycle bin, if they
can find one. On the back I’ve bent the plastic to secure the packaging and some rudimentary information about the
product as well as basics like a barcode and the rice. I have also included the lion mark which is displayed on a
product when the manufacturer/retailer has agreed to the ‘British Toy and Hobby Associations’ Code of practice. It is
a consumer symbol that represents the manufacturers promise to conform to all relevant safety information. And
considering my product is aimed at children and can be considered a toy this is important. The symbol next to the
FRONT
PACKAGINGDESIGN
BACK
VIDEO 4:
This is a
short
proposed
advertiseme
nt I made
for my
product.
The ad
wouldn’t be
televised
but most
likely be in
an ad
before a
You Tube
video given
its
unfinished
relaxed
childlike
feel. It’s 42
seconds
long. I drew
it out on a
whiteboard,
took
pictures and
edited it
together

MANUFACTURING IN
MASS PRODUCTION
I will talk about the manufacturing processes and examples that
would most likely be used if the product was mass produced as
opposed to one off.
MOULD (Stages 1-26)
A large proportion of my making is taken up
through making a mould for my product.
Potential manufacture processes can maker
manufacturing more efficient and, in time,
economically more productive.
BLOW MOULDING
This is manufacturing process by which
hollow plastic parts are formed. The blow
moulding process begins with melting down
the plastic and forming it into a parison (a
tube-like piece of plastic with a hole in one
end through which compressed air can
pass). The parison is then clamped into a
mould and air is blown into it. The air
pressure then pushes the plastic out to
match the mould. Once the plastic has
cooled and hardened the mould opens up
and the part is ejected. This is an adequate
method that would take out a lot of labour
and time in producing a mould and the
moulded material is already pre-
compressed into the mould . It will also
save me drilling a hole to make to product
hollow. This will help my mass
manufactured product biodegrade quicker
and use less material, reducing the cost of
manufacture and retail price.
FAN EXTENSION (28-30)
Rather than crafting the fan part by hand it
would be much simpler if I could use a
machine to create the shape reducing
labour time and material. Thermoforming
does this using one sheet of plastic.
THERMOFORMING
This manufacturing process is where a
plastic sheet is heated to a pliable forming
temperature, formed to a specific shape in a
mould, and trimmed to create a usable
product. For the thin fan extension part this
is perfect as one piece of materials can be
cut and bent, not wasting any material. its
simplest form, a small tabletop machine can
be used to heat small cut sections of plastic
sheet and stretch it over a mould using
vacuum. This method is often used for
sample and prototype parts. In complex and
high-volume applications, very large
production machines are utilized to heat
and form the plastic sheet and trim the
formed parts from the sheet in a continuous
high-speed process, and can produce many
Blow moulding diagram showing how this
shape can be produced using the mould
halves.
This thermoforming diagram shows how the
plastic sheets can be heated to shape, if the
mould was changed in this diagram it would
adhere to my product.
FINISHES (THROUGHOUT ,DETAIL
COLOUR ETC.)
This will have to be done by hand. In
various manufacturing there will have to bet
the following things that would be taken into
account such as , working conditions and
equal pay. This will create jobs too.
Attaching the two components and painting
will add more of a handmade authentic look
as well.
ALTERNATIVE METHODS
3D PRINTING
Even though it’s in the early stages of
development and costly, 3D printing would
be a perfect way to manufacture The hollow
plastic and complex shape parts of my
product. This also allows me to
manufacture using PLA (polylactide ) a
thermoplastic aliphatic polyester derived
from renewable resources, such as corn
starch , tapioca roots, chips or starch, or
sugarcane.
This bio plastic
would be
perfect for my
biodegradable
product. 3D
printable
models may be
created with a
computer aided
design package
or via 3D
This bio plastic would be
perfect for my
biodegradable product. 3D
printable models may be
created with a computer
aided design package or via
3D scanner. The manual
modelling process of
preparing geometric data for
3D computer graphics is
similar to plastic arts such
as sculpting., the machine
reads the design from 3D
printable file and lays down
successive layers of liquid,
powder, paper or sheet
material In this case PLA) to
build the model from a
series of cross sections.

TESTING This page contains a SWOT Analysis, an effective way that I can
analyse my product. The four sections of SWOT analysis are
strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats. Consumer feedback
and professional feedback are also included.
VIDEO 6: Shows how rain would slide
on the waterproof surface I created.
The product seems to cope under
water pressure, the grooves carry the
water well and non of the aesthetic
work is rubbed off in the process
Audio 2: Audio with a interview with the potential consumer pictured above. I ask the consumer
questions regarding the product against the specifications, so I can use the feedback to improve
my product.
CONSUMER FEEDBACK
Pictured to the
left is the product
in use. I will
assess how it
coped in the
natural
environment, The
product remained
durable and
SWOT ANALYSIS
STRENGTHS:
•The product is ergonomic: the child I interviewed in the consumer feedback said it
was easy to put in the soil and didn’t find any major difficulties in this respect. My
professional said it was Universally accessible
•Aesthetics: the products appearance fits the criteria of looking like a product for the
outdoors. Because it blends in this could be a benefit as it prevents any birds from
ruining it .
•Function wise both feedback parties said it was fine.
•Fairly reasonably price
•Robust and interesting looking for consumers
WEAKNESSES:
• Biodegradability: the product doesn’t biodegrade as quickly as I thought it would.
Although the outer layer did (the plant food corn flour mixture) the polymorph took
longer. The ruined the collectable aspect of my product and the fact it was meant to
be built in obsolesce.
•Weight: Top heavy but light base. May be difficult for children.
Audio 3: A interview with Ian, a manager of a local gardening shop. He provides me
with useful and comprehensive feedback
PROFESSIONAL
FEEDBACK
•The surface needs to be smoother (corn
flour plant feed mixture) uncomfortable
for children to hold.
•Curve may need to be deeper more for
small hand to grip.
•Anthropometrics: “big and cumbersome”
•Drop retail price slightly as not well know
brand.
OPPORTUNITIES:
There is scope to market this product
efficiently especially in the recent light of
child based environmental awareness
campaigns: this product could do well.
THREATS
There may be well known companies that
override the function of my product. As I
am not a well know brand consumers
PRODUCT IN
USE
BEFORE AFTER
I left the product planted in the soil for three days outside to see what the effects would be. There was no
precipitation that would help decompose, the product, which after three days was showing signs of
decomposition by losing some of its outer layer. This shows me that the external layer infused with the plant
nutrient will easily decompose.

EVALUATION
I compare my product to my specification, evaluating both good
and bad features an further improvements that can be made as
well as its strengths.
VIDEO 5: Shows a weakness/ flaw of my product I
would need to repair and improve on.
PURPOSE
1.1- The biodegradable aspect of my product isn’t built in
obsolescence as Intended the important top layer biodegrades
leaving the nutrients in the soil. But the polymorph has made
the product more permanent than intended.
1.2- The look of the product blends in well with the
environment.
1.3- I’ve added the additional purpose of water being
concentrated through the soil via the fan extension. The testing
shows this to be successful with no erosion of the surface due
to waterproof paint.
FUNCTION
2.1- Plant food layer erodes off, but polymorph does not.
2.2- My feedback was largely positive towards the aesthetic
appeal. Perhaps add brighter colour to appeal to a younger
audience.
2.3- It seems to be largely anthropometrically accurate,
however to be sure it would be best to make the curves deeper
to accommodate for small hands.
PERFORMANCE
3.1- Biodegrades a layer but takes too long to fully decompose.
Perhaps make polymorph skin instead of hollow block to speed
SIZE/WEIGHT
4.1- The size of my product increased slightly during the
manufacturing process to make it easier for me to make.
As my consumer feedback mentioned, he would prefer
the product to be small. This was my original intention
and in mass manufacturing this size increase wouldn’t
be an issue. However as a handmade product, to make
things simpler I made the prototype slightly bigger acting
as disadvantage to get accurate feedback on size and
weight. My professional feedback pointed out my
product was top heavy but light at the bottom: this may
have to evened out.
ERGONOMICS
5.1- The whole shape is specially built to accommodate
a child's hand, this has been successful.
5.2- The child found it easy to hold, a recommendation
would be to deepen the curves
5.3- Easily pieced into the soil.
MATERIALS AND COMPONENTS
6.1- Though the materials for my fan extension worked
out fine, the biodegradable material isn’t the result I
intended. Either I make the polymorph layer thinner to
speed up the biodegrading process of use another
material in my mould that’s quicker in decomposition.
PRODUCTION MEATHODS
7.1- I was able to produce a mould for my product, a
useful tool as I can recreate the product in different
materials with ease.
7.2- My external decoration is a natural mixture infused
with plant nutrient. There is no damage to the
environment whatsoever.
ASSEMBLY
8.1- Instead of drilling holes to avoid glue I had to stick
the fan on. More precise manufacturing methods would
have prevented this but due to human error, I had to
reconsider my original design intention.
FINISH
9.2- Though the finish was professional at first, the fan
extension erodes slightly from weathering. Perhaps a
stronger acrylic paint with turpentine would strengthen
the surface preventing erosion.
MAINTENANCE
12.1- Solid product, apart from repair needed towards the end. This
is why I intended to drill the fan into the base to secure it as a more
permanent fixture.
12.2- I didn’t intend for the product to last, but as it does a repair
would be to make the surface thicker and more permanent. If I were
to re do the product I would use a different base material.
TARGET MARKET REQUIRMENTS
13.1- The product would be appealing to both children and adults
alike, making my product universally marketable: it has succeeded in
this aspect.
AESTHETICS
14.1- The aesthetic look of the product fits my criteria of being
colourful enough to attract children, and appeal to adults by blending
into their gardens.
14.2- The unusual shape of the product looks interesting, and visually
appealing
VALUE ISSUES
15.1- There’s no social issues with this product or its packaging,
making it universally retail- able.
15.2- The product stands for environmental awareness and
protection, a important moral and marketing tool.
15.3- There isn’t excessive human labour in my proposed mass
manufacturing process keeping the process free of any potential
ethical issues.
COST OF PRODUCTION
16.3- The use of specialist materials like latex made the product
costly. However the surface mixture I made out of cheap materials at
home which acts as a benefit. Of course human labour isn’t included
because most mass manufacture would be on machine.
16.4- The p0roduct costs more than an average fertiliser spike,
however if marketed correctly and if the consumer knows about the
additional functions, the product is less expensive then contemporary
products on the market now.
RETAIL
17.1- The manufacture needs to take into account where the product
will sell and for what price. My professional feedback indicated that
the price was fine but to make the consumer more comfortable with
purchase to lower the price to the £4 region to make it more
appealing.
17.2-The product isn’t a raw plant fertiliser practical product. It’s
unique aesthetical appeal allows the product to be sold in quirky gift

EVALUATION (2)
I talk about my skills learnt and wider implications.
THE 6 RS
REUSE – After the biodegradable part has been degraded into the soil the
product can still be used for the fan watering part.
RECYCLE – The product is recyclable entirely, I’ve used plastics and wood, all
non harmful and recyclable.
REFUSE – As packaging is damaging to the environment, very little will be used.
However it will be indicated tat this is recyclable also so this isn't a major issue.
REDUCE – Mass manufacture would insure I create a small version of my
product so less materials can be used in the process.
RETHINK – The materials I use for the base needs to be re thought if I want to
stick with my original idea.
REPAIR – The fan part needed to be repaired with an additional adhesive, but
an improved version of my product will make sure the base has holes to drill in.
MORAL ISSUES
It is important to make sure that my company has a good moral reputation. This
can be secured by making sure that workers have a good, safe and healthy
working environment. Secondly the pay must also be fair. To ensure this the
product will be manufactured in England. Human rights are far more strict here
compared with China or India. A drawback to this is that costs will increase.
However as there is little competition for my product which offers both plant
nutrient and watering system. I can afford higher costs that will have beneficial
implications on my reputation .
ECONOMY
Manufacturing the good in England rather than abroad will have positive
implications on the economy as it will create jobs. The more employed people
there are, the more spending will increase. This will help the local economy as
shops would benefit from increased consumer spending in the area I locate in.
SCALE OF PRODUCTION
After my manufacturing page I talked through mass production. In reality, the
launch of my product will start with batch production. At the primary of my
product release I will still be unsure if it will be successful. If the product sells well
and retailers order larger quantities it will then be more cost effective to move to
mass production. Mass production will enable me to benefit from economies of
scale meaning profit margins increase as unit costs are bargained down with
suppliers.
PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE
The products lifecycle is short. In my improved product the material would be a
version of the corn flour mix I created in my material testing which will last two
weeks at max. This reduces cost massively and makes the fan extension
collectable.
ENVIRONMENT
In manufacturing, pollution will occur. Especially the fan part as its made as it is
SKILLS LEARNT
I’ve enjoyed the entire designing process during this
project, all the way through form initial ideas to
development sketches, final designs to CAD. I have
improved my skills in refining sketching and especially
CAD design throughout my process.
This shows the development of my drawing skills during
the development of my project . The first one which was
earlier on in designing was sketchy and undeveloped
without any additional detail. I have made my drawings
look more professional combining simplicity with detail
to create a graphic drawings with colour and shading
giving an accurate template to work from in my
manufacturing.
I have learnt these skills because of my enjoyment in
learning new technical skills. In order to improve my
skills I have been searching on the internet fro drawing
tutorials as well as doing additional design research
from various design books. By doing this I have learnt
how to improve presentations of a design and various
technical skills . All of these skills have been useful in
this project.
COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN
One of the most useful skills I have learnt is refining and
learning how to use CAD design. Following tutorials
online I have able to create rounded coloured models
using the software, that I wasn't able to do before. An
MANUFACTURING PROCESS
During my manufacturing process I learnt a lot of new
skills that involved new materials , manufacturing
methods and machinery. Here’s some of the few
processes I undertook.
For example the aluminium casting taught me a new
skill even though it was just a test. The processed like
moulding the oil based sand around my foam model
and pouring the liquid metal into the cast were all new
experiences and skills I can use again.
Another new and unique processes was creating the
latex mould. Though long and tedious (painting
several layers onto the foam model, drying it manually)
process took long, the end result was worth it as I had
created a flexible mould that was waterproof and
versatile. This also taught me how to work with liquid
latex, a new material that I haven’t used before, and it
was interesting to work with.
Finally during the manufacturing I used an array of
different machinery- such as the band saw, large drill,
band facer etc. Working these machines were all new
experiences for me as I hadn’t used them before. Hey

EVALUATION (3)
I talk about the improvements I can make to my product.
IMPROVEMENT (1)
PROBLEM
One of the major issues I had with my product was the fact my fan extension mechanism
didn’t work to plan due to a hiccup in manufacturing my prototype. My initial idea was that
the product would be like a toy, where children can keep the fan extension, it would be
different colours and they’d be collectable.
SOLUTION
I will design a new hinging mechanism where children can put different fan parts onto the
base, detaching and swapping. This will be a pop and lock mechanism similar to mechano
and Lego toys, so it would be safe for children to use.
IMPROVEMENT (2)
PROBLEM
Initially I wanted the product to be built in obsolesce, however, using polymorph, which is
biodegradable, means the product lasts much longer than expected, with the exception of the
topping mixture degrading.
SOLUTION
In line with my previous improvement and my testing I have decided to make my product more
permanent, but I’ll re-design this so it looks more professional rather than accidental. I will keep my
safe polymorph base, use a mixture of food colouring to colour this polymorph green. My outer
layer will remain the same, with its mixture of corn flour and plant feed, when this layer starts
degrading the user will be able to tell as they’ll see the green underneath. This way the product
remains aesthetically matching.
DRAWING:
THIS SHOWS THE BASE OF THE
PRODUCT AND HOW THE FAN
EXTENSION WOULD SLOT IN, IT
HAS FITTINGS ALL AROUND THE
EDGE TO ALLOW THE FAN TO BE
ADJUSTED AND PUT ONTO THE
BASE IN DIFFERENT WAYS. THE
ROUNDED SLOT MAKES THE FAN
EASY TO SLOT IN YET EASY TO
POP OUT OF THE FIXTURE AS
WELL. THE FAN ALSO CAN BE
ADJUSTED AT DIFFERENT
ANGLES WITHIN THE BASE AS
WELL.
The different designs can be bought
separately as a accessory, along with the
default one provided on the product. The
rounded edge easily allows adjustment and
fixture to the base of the product, as well as
room to move around at different angles whilst
fixed in.
As well as different surface pattern the product
has a possibility to have different designs to
be collected like the one pictured left. This
MY QUICK DRAWING
SHOWS AN IMAGE OF
WHAT I PROPOSE TO
HAPPEN AFTER THE
LAYER BIODEGRADES.
IF THIS HAPPENS THEN
THE PRODUCT CAN BE
BUILT TO LAST, AS A
BASE AND STILL
FUNCTION AS A
WATERING TOOL WITH
INTERCHANGEABLE
TOPS. PERHAPS EVEN
THE BASES AND TOPS
CAN BE SOLD
SEPARATELY, TO GIVE
ANOTHER ASPECT OF
THE PRODUCT TO BE
RE-SOLD GIVING A
LARGER PROFIT.
THE BENEFITS OF ME
HAVING A PRODUCT
THAT WILL STAND THE
TEST OF TIME MEANS
THAT THERE'S NO
CONNOTATIONS OF
DISPOSABLENESS OR
WORTHLESSNESS TO
THE PRODUCT. AS A
HARDY WELL BUILT
A before and after of the product after it has been in the soil and the topping has decomposed the
aesthetic look as the colours still remains a natural green, yet its still bright enough to indicate to the
user that the product may need to be replaced if they wish to do so.

ALL MEDIA
All media used in development of product in a bigger format and in one place.
VIDEO 1 VIDEO 2
AUDIO 1
VIDEO 4 VIDEO 5
AUDIO 2

ALL MEDIA (2)
All media used in development of product in a bigger format and in one place.
VIDEO 6
AUDIO 3

Product Design Coursework

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