Dt alevel final

DT A level
Product Design
Calum Dewane Bayford
Centre number: 10254
Candidate number: 2424

Context and Task
Context: The price for property is increasing rapidly, this makes it hard for students to have space to live and study. Where ever a student is living like their
parents house, a small flat or a dorm all these spaces have little space. This has made a new trend that is that multifunctional living spaces are modern and
stylish. This can benefit the occasional table and allow it to be multifunctional as well as occasional.
Task: Habitat a successful major retailer have commissioned me to sell an occasional table marketed at students in their stores. Students face to problems,
these are space and money. Students are limited by both these factors. I want to create a product that is good quality relatively cheap and is small in size. I
have been influenced by Terrence Conran and Issac Krady. These designers have helped me look at multifunctional furniture and popular materials used.
Context and Task
Above is my re written context and
task, to the left I have pulled apart
the original context and task into a
brain storm. This has helped me
structure my rewritten context and
task. Rewriting this I have planned
what else I will include in my
research and planning.
I will include:
• Designer research
• Customer profile
• Target market inspiration
• Product analysis ACCESSFM
• Primary research
• Analysis and specification
• Habitat research
• Occasional table mood board
• Multifunctional rooms mood
board
• Ergonomics and
anthropometrics

Context: Our lifestyles are changing rapidly. It is now fashionable to have multifunctional
living spaces. We now look for items of furniture that are individual and original as well as
being made of high quality.
Task: A major retailer wishes to market, a modern style, and small occasional table. The
product should include some storage space, and be influenced by a designer or artist. You
can use the work of the designer you studied In the summer assignment.
Moving, acting, or occurring with great speed
Conforming to the current style; stylish
Belonging to the present time
The way in which something is said, done, expressed, or performed
having or able to perform many functions
space sought for
occupation by a nation
whose population is
expanding
Preceding all others in
time; first
the quality of being superiorAn inherent or distinguishing characteristic
Of or relating to recent times or the present
The way in which something is said, done,
expressed, or performed Occurring from time to time
The sale of goods or
commodities in small
quantities directly to
consumers
the area in any structure that provides space for storage
Not for everyday use
should be appealing
to the eye and easily
kept aside if not being
used
Need to make
sure the table
can fit well
without taking
up space when
not being used
Ides must be original
and appeal to the
selected audience
and fit in to its
surroundings
Must have good storage depth and size is determined on
who is using the table and where the table is.
Office- small objects like pens pencils
paper etc
Home should have a reasonably sized
space for the average size table object
A power affecting a person, thing, or course of
events, especially one that operates without
any direct or apparent effort
Must find an artist that inspires me
Whos the audience
Whos my designer
Who is my table for
Where will my table be used
What will my table be used for?
Context and task analysis

Designer Research
Issac Krady designer of the tre table
The tre table is a multifunctional table, it can be used as a
coffee table or a laptop table It was designed by Issac Krady.
The reason this table inspires me is because it is one
continuous flow of hard wood with no seems or breaks. The
table can stand horizontally or Vertically and looks effective
both ways. The function of this table is to look aesthetically
pleasing as well as be sturdy and able to balance weight when
used either vertically or horizontally. I would like to create my
table to have two uses like the Tre table and also to be able to
fold away or not take up a large amount of space.
I like the way the wood is steam bended to create a smooth
elegant shape that look good as a laptop table or a coffee table.
The materials he has used are good quality and are
appropriate for the function of his table, I need to make sure
my product meets all these standards for it to be successful.
Terence Conran Balance alcove shelves
Terrence Conran designed the Balance Alcove Shelves. They are made of
hard wood and come in oak, walnut, white and black colours. I like the way
the shelves are placed to create the illusion they are balancing on top of
each other. I would like to incorporate a structure into my table like the
structure used by Terrence Conran. I want to create a product that is
different to other tables on the market like The Alcove shelves.
Terrance conran is
an English designer
born in born 4
October 1931. He is
known for designing
for Habitat stores.
He also invested
over 50million into
the British design
Museum which
shows his passion in
design
Oak coffee table by Terrence
Conran
Habitat green coffee table designed by conran for Habitat
Why are these artists relevant to my project?
I like the way both these artists have made their furniture so
versatile and that they can be placed different ways up and
still have a function. I also like the way both products are
diverse and are still both aesthetically pleasing. Both
products are made of hard wood and are good quality. They
both also do their function to a high standard. I would like to
create a product that is made of good materials meet the
function and look good where ever it is placed.
I can use this information I have gathered to help me create
an aesthetically pleasing product as well as doing its
function to a high standard, I will also use good materials to
help me create my product.

Customer profile target market design inspiration and room
I Think habitat are an appropriate shop to sell my product
as they are a modern stylish store with a wide range of
products unique to the shop. I am also attracted to
habitat as they have a versatile section which is perfect
for a multifunction product.
Students rooms are generally small nowadays weather it
be a dorm or at home with their parents. The product I
want to design will be small and efficient it will carry out
its function and be multifunctional.
Who’s my customer?
My product is aimed at a student preferably students
in university or a form of higher education. I have
decided to choose this audience as my product will
be small and multifunctional. Students do not have
allot of space weather they are at a dorm in a
university or at home, Their space is limited. The goal
of my product is to allow students to occasionally use
the product for different things and it not demand
space.
Aesthetics and materials
The product must look modern stylish and use space
well. The table should either be made out of wood or
plastic. Metal is expensive and students are limited
to the amount they can spend.
Customer profile
Students will most probably use online services allot as it is quick and
easy. Websites such as amazon. This is a problem as students do not
visit habitat however parents in their 30+ most probably do. To make
the product successful I will market the product to parents for their
child. Adults this age generally have more money then a student so
the materials used can be better increasing the retail price. This will
also increase the quality of the product.
The table will need to have available storage space for the students
books papers and other equipment. The tables surface will also have
to be big enough to hold a laptop.
This is a picture of a students room researching
rooms I found that nearly all rooms had a desk,
desk chair or both. This means that desks are a vital
part of a teenagers room and have a desk chair is
also popular. I can try and incorporate this
information into my table.
I am inspired by the Tre table as it is such a simple design however carry's
out its function very well while being Aesthetically pleasing. The table is
also made out of plywood which is durable and cheaper then hard wood.
The table is also lined with hard wood veneers which makes the table
environmentally friendly. I would like to use veneers on my product as it
has to be cheap for students to be able to afford however it also has to be
durable.
Researching desks I have found that wood is very popular however I want
to give my table a modern stylish feel and may use white veneers or
white/coloured plastic I also want my table to be a unique shape and
style.

Target audience
Target audience
Picture Mood board
Where Customer profile
My target market are 16-24 year
olds that live in limited
multifunctional space. They are
modern and slick and are up to
date with technology. They are
social and fun and may live with
friends. They are active and
have a busy schedule.
The main audience live in
built up urban areas and
cities there house would be
in housing estates and
blocks.
active
technology
fun
Adventurous
young
study
party
work
learn

Product analysis Access FM The TRE Table Issac Krady
Aesthetics: The tre table is one flowing
sheet of plywood I like the follow of the
wood and how there are no splits or breaks
the table is all one sheet. The use of
plywood is more economically friendly then
the use of hard wood which makes the table
sustainable.
Cost: The table retails for $90 dollars or
£56.36 British pounds. This is a reasonable
price and the us of plywood keeps this table
affordable. Customer: The customer this product is
aimed at is a young adult who likes modern
furniture. The audience may also have a
limit on space and require this
multifunctional design. The product comes
in wood and white The white for more of a
stylish modern customers. The wood for
more of a natural outdoors look. The
customer might also be drawn to this
product as it is more environmentally
friendly then a hardwood table.
Environment: This product is more
beneficial to the environment as it is not
hard wood rather a plywood with a dark
wood veneer finish. This is better for the
environment therefore the designer must
have had this in mind.
Safety: The table is sturdy and strong is
has no sharp corners when used as a coffee
table and would be safe around children.
When used as a laptop table the structure is
supported and will not fall or snap.
Size: The table itself is small and would
not stand tall when stood up a laptop fits
perfectly on the top when stood up. The
table is relatively small.
Function: The function of this product
is to be a multifunctional table as a coffee
table and a laptop table. When stood the
table holds a laptop and allows legroom.
When laid down the table has a dip
allowing the customer to fit books in it
while there being a flat are to put objects.
Material: The material used is
plywood with a hard wood veneer on
both sides to make the product
aesthetically pleasing.
From this research I have found that using veneers is good as it makes the product environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing. Also to make my product an appropriate size
for the room I am placing it as well as for what it is holding. However my table must be occasional whereas this table is permanent. My table being occasional may need to be able
to collapse easily or be able to be stored well.

I am going to interview my cousin and see if his answers can benefit my product and allow me to understand more
about that age range. I am also going to visit Habitat and take pictures of existing furniture.
What do I want
to discover
Methodology Subjects or
participants
How am I going to be able
to gain access to these
groups or individuals?
What are my
biases about
this topic?
How can I make sure
my biases are not
reflected in my
research?
What do I
expect to
discover?
When did
I do this?
What are the
requirements of a
table for a
student.
Survey at a
university
Family
Member
(Cousin)
Arrange to meet my cousin
and ask him questions.
Issue on space
and price needs
to not use allot
of space and be
relatively
cheap.
Asking specific
questions that will help
with designing and
price.
I expect to
discover
that I need
a product
that has
space for
storage
and space
to hold
things like
laptops and
other
equipment.
--
What are the
requirements of a
table for a
student.
Primary
research at a
Habitat
Me Go to the store and take
pictures
Issue on space
and price needs
to not use allot
of space and be
relatively
cheap.
Take pictures of tables
that are small and
cheap however do
there function well.
Small
multifuncti
onal tables
a range of
different
colours and
materials
--
Primary research planning

Analysis
Overall Analysis:
I have done primary and secondary research to help me design ideas for my project. I have researched into some artists that have done work
that I can build inspiration from and traits that I might consider using in my own table. I visited two different shops for my primary research one
of the shops being habitat which on of the artists I have researched into designs for the shop. I thought this was relevant and wanted to visit to
the shop to see some of the furniture and take photos and measurements from similar products to give me an idea of how I want my product to
look. I also visited Heals which also has a furniture department similar to Habitat. Whilst looking in these shops I took pictures of products I liked
that were similar to what I am going to make for my table. I took measurements of these objects and felt the wait and what materials where
used to make them. All this information would be key to helping me create design ideas. I have also focused on my target audience and have
researched into what their needs are and what would appeal to them so that I can incorporate this into my table.
Customer Profile
From my customer profile I learnt that I will have to create a product that appeals to them and to also keep the table unisex to appeal to both
genders of the target audience age range. My customer is teenagers and young adults therefore I will be using my older cousin and the people
in my class to help with my table so I know that it appeals to everyone.
Shop Research For my primary shop research I have visited two shops and taken photos to show as evidence of this and to also use as
inspiration when thinking up ideas for my table. The shop research was very useful as it allowed me to get a sense of size for my product and
also a sense of materials that I could use that look atheistically good and would fit the function of my table.
Designer case study
For my designer case study I used the internet to research artists, I found Terrance Conran and Issac Krday. I chose these designers as I found
their work interesting and creative. I can use the research I did on these artists to inspire me when designing my table, doing this research has
also helped me understand what materials are good to use and what they look affective on.
Analysis

Specification
Specification of my project:
Aesthetics and functionality : My product must appeal to the target audience which is teen agers and young adults therefore my product will need to
be sleek and modern to refer to I have asked my cousin to look at photos of my work throughout the manufacturing process to give me ideas oto make
the product appeal to my audience. He has already recommended a sleek modern table with unnoticeable seems with a draw with enough draws space
for books mobiles phones keys and other objects found next to a bed or that have come out my customers pocket.
Cost: My product must be affordable to the target audience. My target audience will either be in education or have a part time or full time job. The
price range here is broad as the customers that have jobs will have more money then those who still attended full time education therefore I have
decided to make sure my table is affordable and not to expensive. However I want to use materials that will last and be durable so that the product is
worth the money.
Customer: My customer is young adults that are in education or have left education and are starting to work, The customer will have the product for
occasional use and be able to have it in a multifunctional room with out it getting in the way. The customer will want draw space to fit every day objects
such as keys phones change or a wallet and other items found next to a bed. The table must be easily mobile so that it can be moved easily and
connected to make the coffee table. The table also has to be unisex to appeal to both male and female customers I will make sure my product appeals
to both genders by asking people in my class.
Environment: My product is for a room with limited space such as student accommodation, small flats or a room. The table must be able to take up as
little space as possible as some customers will have reduced space. For this I will research into sizing of my table to make sure it is not bigger then it
should be and therefore would take up unnecessary space. The environment its self is also benefited as I am using plywood which is a man made
composite material which can be recycled and is made from recycled wood.
Safety: My product will be made from plywood and be constructed with either adhesives nails screws or metal rods. To ensure safety I will make sure
no screws or nails protrude the surface and that there is no risk of the rods ripping through the material and possibly hurting the customer. I will also
sand down all my edges on my table to make sure they are not to sharp.
Size: size is key in my product and I have considered that my target audience may have limited space for the product and that it also may need to
be stored. I will study the sizing of my product in detail and make sure it is not bigger than it has to be to perform it function.
Function: The function of my product is to be an occasional table with multifunctional properties that also have storage in the form of a draw.
My table will need to be within the size of an average coffee table and within the size of an average bedside table which I will consider in my
research.
Materials: The materials I will use for my table is plywood. I will use this man made composite as it is cheaper then alternative woods such as
Oak or Mahogany however has good properties and can be finished with a veneer if needed. It will also be easy to laminate to get the required
thickness I need for my table and these laminations will be unnoticeable due to the exposed lamination on the sides of the plywood.

Habitat and
Heals
primary
research
primary research

Through my primary research I have found that it is very popular to
have tables that have removable lids and storage inside. Some
where simple round tables with a plastic or wood lid that can be
removed and inside would be storage. This relates to my research
well as it is diverse and occasional. This design is very simple to
manufacture and offers good storage.
PRIMARY RESEARCH
Another very popular design was the three tables that slid underneath
one another and could be placed in the corner of a room when not
being used. Both shops had loads of different colours materials
designs and shapes of these tables which shows that they are very
popular. I should try to incorporate the idea that the product can slid
underneath one another as it is popular.
Another shape I
noticed while walking
through the shop was
the squares that
came to about knees
height or shorter. In
habitat they sell are
selling square stools
that are made of
fabric. They come in
various colours
however do not have
any storage. I found
a wooden box in
heals that did have
storage but was not a
stool.
I want to create a product that can be a stool and a table.
The product will be a little over knee height, It will be a
square shape and allow storage. The product will have a lid
that can be flipped from a padded cushion to a hard flat
wood to be used as a table. The product will be able to be
pushed together to make a bigger table and can also be
stacked for storage. The product can be used as seats or a
table, The outside of the product will be able to be modified
by the customer, The sides of the square will have strips
that can have fabric and other materials stuck to it. This
makes the product diverse and fun for the young target
audience. This product is completely customisable and can
be stored easily.
The Price varied from high to low in both shops however was
reasonably affordable and good quality. The two shops clearly
sell high quality affordable products unlike ikea that sells cheap
products that are flat pack and assembled by hand.

Occasional tables
Occasional tables
I chose these images as I
like the fluidity of the
table. All images have
been bended and flow
with out any joints or
splits.
I like the image of the three blocks of
wood as it appears they are floating. I
want to create a balance illusion with my
product. I also like wood work so this was
an appropriate image to add.
I chose this image as I like the creativity and simplicity of the image. It
is a cleaver multifunctional product that can be stored easily and can
be constructed easily.

Multifunctional
rooms
I have gathered some images of
multifunctional rooms that could have
my table init. The rooms are all relatively
small and have one function such as a
living room or a bedroom however my
table will suit a multifunctional room as
well as this style of room.

QUALITY CONTROL
I will need to make a jig to allow the
wood to be cut on the table saw.
Because of the size of the wood and the
length it will have to be slowly pushed
through the saw and could fall or slip
therefore a jig will be needed to help
cut the wood.
Plan of making
I have decided to use plywood to make my table. I have decided on this as it is relatively cheaper then hard woods such as Oak and
Mahogany and still holds good properties such as strength and durability. Plywood can also easily be laminated so that I can control
the thickness of the wood easily without it being noticeable when it is finished. Plywood can also have veneers laminated onto it as
well as be painted stained and varnished, therefore I have a wide range of finishing techniques that I can choose from. I can also
easily sand down plywood to give it a nice smooth finish which is also another benefit when looking at the athsetetics at the
finishing process of making the table.
Step 1 First I will sand my wood
down and get rid of any ruff
edges and ruff surfaces that it
may have, I can then also
choose a side that has no
defects such as knots and splits
to make sure the table looks
good.
Step 3 Next I will mark out my
wood ready for it to be cut. The
wood will be cut using a table
saw to give it a smooth cut. The
table saw will need to be used
as the wood its self comes in a
big sheet and will need to be cut
using a powerful saw.
Step 4 The jig will then be made
and The wood will be cut into
the lengths needed to make my
table. Once the wood is cut I
can begin to attach the wood
using adhesive nails and wood
screws.
Step 2 I will then laminate my
wood to get the desired lengths
I am going to need making sure
I do not waste any wood on
laminating areas that I will not
be cut on the table saw for the
main parts of the table.
Step 5 Once the wood is
attached I can then sand down
the sides to make sure it is even
and smooth. I will only be able
to attach the bottom and the
middle sections of the table
until the draw is attached to the
top piece so that it is easier to
work with.
Step 6 I will then fill the
counter sunk holes that are
made from screwing the pieces
together and I will remove any
adhesive that may be on the
surface. I can then mill out the
draw ready to be attached to
the top pieces of the table.
Step 7 I can then attach my
draw runners to the top piece
of the table and to the draw
itself that I have milled out
using the milling machine. I will
attach the draw runners using
screws and adhesive if
necessary.
Step 8 Once the draw is fitted I
can attach the top piece of the
table using the same method I
used to attach the bottom and
middle. Once it is attached I can
sand down the table ready for
the finishing processes.
Step 9 To finish the table I will
use varnish and stain to make
the table athletically pleasing to
the customer. Once this is
complete I can test and
evaluate my product.
QUALITY CONTROL
Before cutting I will
make sure that I
have marked out
correctly so the
cuts are perfect.
QUALITY
CONTROL
I will make sure
the screws are
not protruding
the other side

Analysing my target market and models
The table
is made
from
plywood
which is
strong and
durable
this is
appropriat
e for the
students
as they
will not
need to
buy
another
table.
Students have limited
money to spend
therefore making a
product with
multifunctional
features will draw in
more customers and
allow the product to
be more successful.
Students will be more
likely to spend money
on furniture with
multifunctional use
then a piece of
furniture with only
one use.
Students like to sit with friends or room mates
around a coffee table and talk as they are around
friends a lot they are being social. A coffee table
with a multifunctional use would appeal to the
audience.
I have made a model out
of board and used the
laser cutter to cut the
model out precisely. I
noticed with this design
that I would not be able
to make the leaning effect
with the angle and shape
and will have to add an
extra leg for support
running parallel with the
top of the table . Adding
the extra leg will allow the
table to be stable and not
topple over and rely on
leaning for support.
The extra leg on the table allows extra
stability and will support the draw that
will slide underneath the top of the
table
The Models above all have a draw cut out this was my old idea I have now
decided to have a slim line draw made inside the plywood itself. I have
decided this as it will make the table look more sleek and modern
After testing both tables I decided to use the extra leg at the bottom and have
my table in a ‘Z’ shape as it will support the table more and will be easier to
balance. It will also not need a wall behind it to lean on.
I can use my class and my cousin to allow me to
make sure the table appeals to the audience I
am making it for. This will allow me to decided
ideas with influence from the target audience.

Ergonomics and anthropometrics
What is ergonomics?
Wikipedia definition: study of workplace design: the study of how a workplace and the equipment used there can best be
designed for comfort, efficiency, safety, and productivity
Ergonomics is when a designer design a product with the customer in mind, for their comfort safety efficiency and the
productivity. For example if the designer is designing some earphones they will have to consider the ergonomics of the product
to appeal to humans.
What is Anthropometrics?
Wikipedia definition: the measurement of the human individual. An early tool of physical anthropology, it has been used for
identification, for the purposes of understanding human physical variation, in palaeoanthropology and in various attempts to
correlate physical with racial and psychological traits.
Anthropometrics is when information on the “average human” is collected as the 95%. Therefore a designer will use this
information to try and appeal to the 95% of customers. For example if a designer wanted to invent a pen they would have to
take everyone into consideration this is where Anthropometrics is used.
Average height on a bed side table is 24"-28“ in height
http://www.houzz.com/discussions/24876/How-tall-should-a-nightstand-be-in-relation-
Average height and weight of a 20year old male Height-5'9 , weight-145 to 150 pounds
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_average_height_and_weight_for_a_20_year-old-male#slide2
The average height of a common coffee table is16-18 inches
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/Standard_coffee_table_height#slide2
The average height from floor to the top of a mattress. 18”
http://www.ehow.com/info_7975967_mattress-height-floor.html
I have researched some Anthropometrics that will help me with my product. This information was all sauced of off the
internet.
Above I have gathered some useful information to help me construct my table to appeal to the 95%. Some problems I have
come across are that beds are all different shapes sizes and heights however I found the average bedside table size that will
appeal to the majority of beds. My table is targeted at students aged 16-24 male and female.
All of the data I have used is
backed and is accurate even
though it may come of a website
that may also have unreliable
sources. I have had to use these
websites as there are no others I
could find.

Relevant information to help with my table
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_average_height_and_weight_for_a_20_year-old-male#slide2
I have researched some Anthropometrics that will help me with my product. This information was all sauced of off the
internet.
Above I have gathered some useful information to help me construct my table to appeal to the 95%. Some problems I have
come across are that beds are all different shapes sizes and heights however I found the average bedside table size that will
appeal to the majority of beds. My table is targeted at students aged 16-24 male and female.
Table handle
My tables will have two draws that will allow the you to store things in. I want to apply a push to open door hinge to give the table a sleek design
that will appeal to the audience. I think the push to open mechanism will appeal more to a young audience then an older audience however
everyone will like it as you can not see it as suppose to a handle which people will have an opinion on.
My table will need a handle on the draw, I have researched some potential handles I could use on the draw.
All of these handles are modern and sleek and would go well with
the design. What I found was that metal handles are very popular
on wood and that they compliment each other well. I had other
ideas to use a cut out in the wood to act as a handle for the
customer. I then though to use a draw that has no handle and a
push to open hinge. This makes the table sophisticated and stylish
and highly appeals to the audience.
All of the data I have used is
backed and is accurate even
though it may come of a website
that may also have unreliable
sources. I have had to use these
websites as there are no others I
could find.

I want my table to reach to the level of the mattress. Beds are all different heights so the
table may not reach the mattress or may be above the planned height.
On Google the average height of a bed side table was 24"-28” however this is taller than the average height
of a coffee table. Coffee tables are traditionally low to the floor and bed side tables are traditionally the
same height of a bed. I found on E how that the most common height from the floor to the top of a
mattress is 18”. This works perfectly as I found that a common height of a coffee table is 16-18 inches off
the floor. I will make my table slightly taller than this so the customer does not have to reach down to the
coffee table at night.
The table needs to also be a good size when used as a coffee table with a sofa. The average height of a
sofa from floor to the top of the seat is generally 18” The same as a bed. This size is just under the
average height of a bed side table. I will make my table in-between these heights.
The height of the table
will be 22” 560 mm
I have chose for my table to be 22” because this is 2” down from the average bed side table height and 2” above the average bed and
sofa height. It is also 2-4” bigger then the average coffee table.
The top of my table will be 16”x16” 406mm
435mm
Sizing and table information
What is ergonomics?
Wikipedia definition: study of workplace design: the study of how a workplace and the equipment used there can best be designed for
comfort, efficiency, safety, and productivity
Ergonomics is when a designer design a product with the customer in mind, for their comfort safety efficiency and the productivity. For
example if the designer is designing some earphones they will have to consider the ergonomics of the product to appeal to humans.
What is Anthropometrics?
Wikipedia definition: the measurement of the human individual. An early tool of physical anthropology, it has been used for identification,
for the purposes of understanding human physical variation, in palaeoanthropology and in various attempts to correlate physical with racial
and psychological traits.
Anthropometrics is when information on the “average human” is collected as the 95%. Therefore a designer will use this information to try
and appeal to the 95% of customers. For example if a designer wanted to invent a pen they would have to take everyone into consideration
this is where Anthropometrics is used.
http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_is_average_height_and_weight_for_a_20_year-
old-male#slide2
I have researched some Anthropometrics that will help me with my product. This information was all sauced of off
the internet.
Above I have gathered some useful information to help me construct my table to
appeal to the 95%. Some problems I have come across are that beds are all
different shapes sizes and heights however I found the average bedside table size
that will appeal to the majority of beds. My table is targeted at students aged 16-
24 male and female.
Why is this table appropriate to my Target audience?
My table is appropriate as people this age generally still live at home or with friends, because the table can become
two bedside tables two people can use the bedside table weather it either side of a double bed or in separate rooms.
The age I have chosen do not have allot of money and will probably have friends over allot of the time as supposed to
going out and having to spend money. This makes the function of turning the two tables into one coffee table very
appropriate as the table can be clipped together and used around chair to socialised etc. A key role in success of a
product is if it has a USP (unique selling point) My unique selling point is that the table is multifunctional and turns
from a bedside table to a coffee table.

Materials
I have done research into what materials I can use on my table bellow I have had to consider the function and aesthetic he product and
what material will benefit the product the most.
Material Advantages Disadvantages Is it appropriate ?
Plywood Plywood is a strong and
durable wood consisting
of right angle layered
wood interlocking the
structure making it very
strong. Plywood is
cheaper than a hard
wood as it is man made
and constructed from
wood waste.
The wood can be
damaged if exposed to
liquids for a long period,
it will absorb the liquid
and become heavy and
weak and if dried become
weak and easily snapped.
Yes my product is for
indoor use therefore will
not be exposed to water
for long periods of time
as it would if it was left
outside in the rain.
Acrylic It is cheap and strong and
can be easily obtained
anywhere in multiple
colours and sizes.
It can be easily scratched
and cracked as it is plastic
and has a brittle
property.
No because It can scratch
easily and I am making a
coffee table and bedside
table which will be in
contact with cups and
objects which means it
can be scratched and
loose the aesthetic
quality.
Oak Oaks aesthetic quality
makes the product look
nice it is also strong
durable and will not
absorb water as fast as a
man made board would
such as MDF.
Oak is very expensive as it
is a hard wood and will
make the product cost
allot of money.
This is not appropriate as
the product is aimed at
students and young
adults who will not spend
large amount on tables
therefore using an
expensive hard wood is
not appropriate.
I chose to evaluate one man made composite material one polymer and one hardwood. The most appropriate material was plywood as it is
cheap has a good strength to weight ratio and looks good as well as being easy to apply a finish.

Development of my idea
Here are some more
developments I made I decided
to make my model out of acrylic
using a line bender and look at
what shapes I would be able to
achieve using a polymer as
supposed to a wood. I can
consider using plastic for my
main product however I do not
know if it will be strong enough
and if it will be to expensive.
I decided that I did not
want to make my
model out of acrylic or
any polymers therefore
wanted to make a
model using plywood

Making my table
Before I started to make my table I carried out some tests to see
weather the table will be functional at the angles I was going to cut it. I
used small pieces of plywood and cut them into the angles I planned to
do with my final work I then used adhesive to stick them together and
tested weather it was stable and function able. I then used metal rods
as a test on how to attach the wood I put the rods directly through one
piece to the other and it was very stable. However the worry was that
on a larger scale because there would be pressure on it the bars could
rip through the wood.
Because my previous models and this model
was successful I decided to carry on making
my table.

Making my table
I started by marking out my sheets of plywood so that I know
what sizes I need to achieve the angle of the table. I then got
my work cut at the angle of the table saw. Before I cut After
this I then laminated two pieces of ply together to reach the
thickness I wanted for my table. I did this with PVA glue and
once dry I sanded the sides to make them even and smooth.
Once my wood was laminated I realised that the wood was
very heavy and due to the angle I was going to cut them had
to make a jig to stop the wood from moving when being cut.
The jig was a simple MDF box with a flat piece of MDF stuck
to the side this allowed me to clap my piece on a push it
through the saw.
I then experimented with putting metal rods through the
wood to make a strong structure that could join the angles
together. On my main table I decided not to do this and
instead do a row of nails and screws as I could cover them
with filler to make them unnoticeable.
This is my jig I made to allow my wood to be cut without
falling or moving when being pushed through the saw.
Here is a picture
of the angle I cut
my wood.
Because the saw
was at a tilt the
wood moving was
a big problem
however the jig
ensured this
didn’t happen.
Quality control
I made sure to test
the jig works and
keeps the wood level
and will ensure it will
not fall

Making my table
The next thing I did was make a draw for my
table. I had already allowed space in my table
top for me to add a draw. I did this buy cutting
out a section before I laminated my wood to
then allow me to use the wood I cut out as the
draw. My initial idea was to have a push to open
draw however I was unable to do this. However
if my product was mass produced to sell in a
shop it would have a push to open draw. I got
normal draw runners and used the routing
machine to make a slit to push them into. I also
added a slight dip underneath the draw for
ergonomic reasons and to make the draw easier
to open and more ergonomic to use.
I used the router machine that uses CAD CAM,
the benefit of using this is it is allot more
accurate and precise then I could be if I
routered it by hand or used a milling machine. I
marked out all of the dimensions and then put
them into the computer and they where
routered out. I then screwed the draw runners
into place and could then attach the draw to the
table.
Quality control
I made sure the milling
machine was set to the right
proportions and that the
runners would fit once it was
milled.

Making my table
Once the draw was attached to my
table I sanded all the edges removed
all off the filler and made sure all
edges where smooth and flat. I also
made sure that the draw look flush
against the wood and was
unnoticeable when closed. I tested my
draw by putting books and my phone
in it to make sure it was fit for its
function and it was. Finally I varnished
the edges very the layered plywood
effect is seen, I used clear varnish as I
wanted to keep the plywood look. I
then used a mixed stain and varnish
for the rest of the table to give it
character and make it look complete.
Before varnish and stain my table was a light wood colour, I wanted to
stain and varnish it as it would make the table stand out more and make it
look finished as when it was not stained it did not look finished.
Quality control
Here I used masking tape to make
sure the varnish and stain did not
run on to places I did not intend to
be painted. Some stain leaked
through while it dried however
once it was dry I removed the
masking tape and sanded it off.
I asked my teacher what colour
varnish he thinks would look good
on the table and he said a varnish
with a red tint would look good so

Evaluation
Evaluation of the table
I have made a multifunctional occasional table out of plywood, I only had resources to make one table however if sold it would come as two. The table
is made up of laminated plywood that I cut at angles to create a ‘Z’ shape. I also incorporated a sleek unnoticeable draw that is flush with the wood and
has no handle. This makes the table looks modern and stylish. The draw has a dip underneath it that I milled out which helps open the draw. As a finish I
used a varnish stain mix and applied it to all the flat surfaces of the table as I liked the effect of the lamination of the plywood against the stain colour.
What went well and what can be improved
An improvement of the table could be that their is a connection of the back of each table that allows them to connect as a coffee table as supposed to
being pushed together which is what happens with the current table design. I could also of used a less heavy material then plywood as the table is
heavy however this give it stability. I was unable to incorporate a push to open mechanism into my draw as I ran out of time to do so.
Some things that went well are the proportions of the table. It is within the two heights I needed this is important as it will look affective when used for
it functions. I also like the size of the draw as it is not to big however is big enough for what it was designed to hold. The draw can hold phones keys
change thin books and other small objects.
Future development of the project.
If I was to develop the table in the future I would like to make a fitting to connect the two tables together when they are being used as a coffee table. I
would also liked to explore other runners that I could use in the table and other styles I could create for the draw. I would incorporate the push to open
mechanism into my table as this would make the table look effective and modern. I would need to work out where and how to apply this mechanism to
the runners and where to place the mechanism to make it work effectively and smoothly.
What did my target audience think of my product?
I showed my cousin pictures of my finished product he said he licked the modern look it had and he also liked how the draw was hidden within the table
itself. He said that the table appealed to him and that he would buy and use it if it was sold in a shop. My class also licked the table they fall within the
target audience for the product therefore the positive feedback is good as it means that the product appeals to the audience.

Aesthetics and functionality : My product must appeal to the target audience which is teen agers and young adults therefore my product will need to be sleek and modern to
refer to I have asked my cousin to look at photos of my work throughout the manufacturing process to give me ideas to make the product appeal to my audience. He has already
recommended a sleek modern table with unnoticeable seems with a draw with enough draws space for books mobiles phones keys and other objects found next to a bed or that
have come out my customers pocket.
My table is sleek and modern and would appeal to a teen age audience I know this as I have asked my peer group and my cousin as well as my
teachers and they all like the product. It also has a draw that has enough space to fit various items such as phones keys change and books the table it
self can also hold these items on the table top and stands steady.
Cost: My product must be affordable to the target audience. My target audience will either be in education or have a part time or full time job. The price range here is broad as
the customers that have jobs will have more money then those who still attended full time education therefore I have decided to make sure my table is affordable and not to
expensive. However I want to use materials that will last and be durable so that the product is worth the money.
The table is made out of plywood PVA adhesive nails screws and metal draw runners with varnish and stain finish this could keep costs considerably
low and allow the table to sell for a low price to suit the target audience.
Customer: My customer is young adults that are in education or have left education and are starting to work, The customer will have the product for occasional use and be able
to have it in a multifunctional room with out it getting in the way. The customer will want draw space to fit every day objects such as keys phones change or a wallet and other
items found next to a bed. The table must be easily mobile so that it can be moved easily and connected to make the coffee table. The table also has to be unisex to appeal to
both male and female customers I will make sure my product appeals to both genders by asking people in my class.
The table has more weight then intended however is still easily movable. I have asked my class for there view on my table and it is liked by both boys
and girls so the table has maintained unisex appeal.
Environment: My product is for a room with limited space such as student accommodation, small flats or a room. The table must be able to take up as little space as possible as
some customers will have reduced space. For this I will research into sizing of my table to make sure it is not bigger then it should be and therefore would take up unnecessary
space. The environment is also being benefited as I am using a man made composite material which can be recycled and is made from recycled wood.
I have used plywood which is an environmentally friendly material and I have also made my table a suitable size to be able to fit into small spaces and
ensured it is not bigger then it needs to be.
Safety: My product will be made from plywood and be constructed with either adhesives nails screws or metal rods. To ensure safety I will make sure no screws or nails
protrude the surface and that there is no risk of the rods ripping through the material and possibly hurting the customer. I will also sand down all my edges on my table to make
sure they are not to sharp.
I have made my product safe by sanding the edges and making sure the screws do not protrude the wood surface.
Size: size is key in my product and I have considered that my target audience may have limited space for the product and that it also may need to be stored. I
will study the sizing of my product in detail and make sure it is not bigger than it has to be to perform it function.
The table is small and takes up little floor space it is appropriate for a small room. It is also small in height which is convenient if it was
to be stored.
Function: The function of my product is to be an occasional table with multifunctional properties that also have storage in the form of a draw. My table will
need to be within the size of an average coffee table and within the size of an average bedside table which I will consider in my research.
The table meets its function by being able to stand and hold objects on its surface it also has the draw that allows numerous objects to
fit inside I have made sure the table is the right size and is not inappropriately big for its function.
Materials: The materials I will use for my table is plywood. I will use this man made composite as it is cheaper then alternative woods such as Oak or Mahogany
however has good properties and can be finished with a veneer if needed. It will also be easy to laminate to get the required thickness I need for my table and
these laminations will be unnoticeable due to the exposed lamination on the sides of the plywood.
I have used plywood and it has been successful in that it holds the weight on the table and was also easily finished by using varnish and
stain.
Specification analysis after project

I have tested
how my table is
when I place
objects on the
top off it. The
table was stable
and sturdy and
had enough
space on it
without it feeling
cramped.
Testing
The draw was the main feature of the
table and had enough space to fit
books keys and various objects such
as phones pencils pens and would be
good to put small pocket objects in.
The draw was strong whilst holding the
objects and closed all the way as well.
I have test my table
to see if it can
preform the jobs it
has to be able to do
to bit fit for its
function.

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