Oobi design

Hewitt, Ian and Watson, Bruce (2003) Oobi design. [Artefact]

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Abstract

Hewitt is a human-centred design practice researcher who believes that the way users relate to a product is as important as the aesthetics. Hewitt works closely with both clients and end usersof a design idea, conveying concepts through varied visual communications and physical models to help them visualise the evolving design. Hewitt designed ‘Oobi’, the first gas powered hair dryer. Hewitt also designed the product with a unique looped handle to give the professional stylist greater flexibility during use. The looped handle is a point of functional innovation, based on Hewitt’s extensive observational research into the various ways in which the product could be used. It gives maximum flexibility whilst alleviating wrist and forearm strain. It also gives the product a unique brand identity, aiding marketing and promotion. www.buywiseuk.com/hair%20dryers.htm. A corded version was marketed and released as the ‘Oobi’ Professional Ionic Hairdryer. Hewitt has recently been asked to develop an all metal version by the client. Hewitt’s research contributes to CfDR’s knowledge concerning product innovation. Watson (another member of CfDR), provided Hewitt with engineering support and solid modelling, together with concept validation. Hewitt’s reputation as an innovative human centred product designer has led to his appointment on the judging panel of the UK Audi Foundation Young Designer of the Year Award 2002, 2003 and 2005. He was also invited to deliver workshops at the Oakham Design Conference, 2004 and 2005.

Item Type:	Artefact
Additional Information:	Patent registration number: Patent application/number: 0313590.2 PCT/GB/2002/005343
Subjects:	W200 Design studies
Department:	Faculties > Arts, Design and Social Sciences > Design
Depositing User:	EPrint Services
Date Deposited:	02 Oct 2008 11:23
Last Modified:	24 Oct 2017 08:20
URI:	http://nrl.northumbria.ac.uk/id/eprint/3364

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