For the first assignment in HCDE 451, we were instructed to create a low-fidelity “model prototype” of one of three objects, in which I chose to create a handheld electric screwdriver. This was one of the first times I had prototyped a physical object whose main features were not centered around a digital interface, so I chose a screwdriver since it was an object that was familiar yet provided enough room for creativity.

In this assignment, we were told to utilize OXO’s core competencies within our design while also evaluating our prototypes through critique and testing.

Design

Before diving into the prototyping, I first reviewed the following design requirements to set the scope of the project.

Design Requirements

• Variable speed control
• Screw-driver selection mechanism (either digital or non-digital)
• Screw-driver direction selection mechanism (non-digital)
• Digital readout (monochromatic, non-touch sensitive) of the number of screws screwed and screws unscrewed for tracking your progress as a handyperson
• Can be used right or left-handed
• Product dimensions are a minimum of 6 inches long and must be able to contain a rechargeable battery.
• Product weight is between 1-1.5 pounds.

After setting the scope, I translated these design requirements into different ideas through sketching. I was heavily inspired by the idea of a power drill as a foundation of this prototype, due to its steady handle, efficient screw/unscrew speed, and the ability to reach screws at an angle where a traditional screwdriver might be difficult.

Image of the DeWalt Cordless Power Drill.

Throughout this ideation process, I played around with the length of the “nozzle”, button placement, and interfaces for the displays. While ideating, I found that I was generating ideas that converged upon my previous iterations, and some that completely diverged from my initial ideas. Ultimately, almost all of these iterations have similarities in the type of interfaces, buttons, and handle style; however, getting into the details of placement and layout is what prompted these different versions.

Another task I had to consider within this project was how to apply the OXO design principles. While I sketched different ideas, I often thought about how the length of the nozzle and the height of the screwdriver could enable users to have a better grip on the screwdriver. OXO’s biggest principle is the idea of “universal design,” so making sure that my screwdriver was easy to understand how to use as well as available for both left and right-hand users was a must. On top of this, I also wanted to think about the broader use cases, in which how might the length or height of the screwdriver affect how often it can be used. Overall, taking this idea of “universal design” into account resulted in some detailed adjustments here and there for each iteration.

Image of six different iterations of the electric screwdriver.