DESIGN, ERGONOMICS AND 3D PRINTING: A PRACTICAL EXERCISE IN PROJECT FOR OUTLETS PLUGS COVERS

Abstract

The study refers to the design of outlets plugs covers, taking into account ergonomic and usability criteria.

The study was developed in two subjects of the Design undergraduate course (Product Design 1 and Ergonomics and Product Design), developed in an integrated way to corroborate content and design practices in solving a problem. In this case, the problem addressed included the risk of domestic accidents, especially involving children. The aim of the project was to develop a new, more efficient, safe and comfortable product. For this, we used the product development methodology proposed by Lobach (2000), together with tools presented by Baxter (2011) and Task Analysis (MORAES; MONT'ALVÃO, 2000). Validation tests such as the Erick Test (CAVALCANTI, 2003) and a Satisfaction Scale (SUS) (BROOKE, 1986) were applied after 3D printing of the prototype. The study results in a conceptual proposal for new outlets plugs covers that has been tested and evaluated by users from the developed prototype. The ergonomic and usability criteria in this product project guided the choice of alternatives in order to improve functional aspects and, consequently, the satisfaction of individuals.