2021 - Rory McLynskey
01
focus.
a second year project which introduced the concept of design for manufacture
The project brief was to design a mass-manufactured bluetooth speaker inspired by a brand of our choice, with the constraints of a basic speaker functionality. As a challenge, I chose AUDI.
brand research.
monochromatic colour. subtle branding. hidden functionalities. sleek form.
The brand identity was an important facet of this project. I was tasked to re-create a bluetooth speaker using components from an existing speaker but in a new, brand inspired form. I identified four primary elements that made Audi... Audi. The first two were a neutral grey colour scheme and subtle brand incorporation. The logo also quietly extruded from the body, indicating a confidence in their brand identity. A particularly interesting element was the hidden functionalities such as the mirrors and the door handles. The form was the final element with sharp, angular surfaces and edges manipulating light in a mesmerising way.
market research.
neutral colour. subtle branding. tactile matte surfaces. robust frame.
Another essential part of this project was the analysis of existing products. Bose, a brand equivalent in the speaker industry possessed many similar elements, the neutral colour palette, the subtle brand inclusion, even the hidden details. A contrast important to note was that of the tactile matt surface, a contextually different approach to that of the reflective Audi car, speaker facilitated interaction). The Bose Home-speaker 300 measures in at 16.1cm tall, its robust size facilitating a strong, clear sound that smaller speakers can not replicate.
Introduce ideation.
ideation.
long smooth faces, sharp transitions, hidden details.
fusion 360
modelling
journey.
metalised polypropylene. injection molding.
exploded.
one-direction assembly. multi-levelled securing. all the details hidden.
Grill
Shell 1
Ring 1
Channel
Speaker
Cushion
Ring 2
Shell 2
Ring 3
Button Assembly
PCB
Base
Screws x 12
details.
subtle branding. sound wave grill detailing. light capture.
simple functionality. engraved buttons = premium tactility.
FOCUS
(made in Keyshot)