Task Two: Good Design

Product: Sensear SP1x

Designer: KWA Design
Manufacturer: Sensear PTY Ltd


[Brief Overview and description]

The Sensear SP1x is described as the world's first communication enabled electronic earplug which gives advanced protection against loud harmful noises from that of heavy construction sites. However its ability to enhance and assist any form of communication easily through high noise environments, whether it be face to face, through mobile phone, or two way radio, makes this product truly amazing.

The earphones enable the user to effectively communicate with their surrounding individuals or on the mobile phone through bluetooth technology without ever having to take off the earphone, which reduces the need for harmful exposure to loud noises.

The product's highly advanced filtering technology is able to differentiate between background noise and speech properties which allows it to suppress loud noises without distorting speech. Its design is simple yet has a modern and funky feel, with its mp3 interface and its use of the contrasting colours of fluro orange and black.

The Sensear SP1x was designed to be used for individuals working in the high noise industry. Sensear's managing director, Justin Miller stated, "Our product has the potential to dramatically reduce the incidence of Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) in the workplace' and that 'our technology can provide a safer environment for people working in high noise industries'.



[Visual Design Analysis]

Line: The main body has friendly, flowing lines with a slight curve to make the interface less sharp looking and more approachable. Lines are also created by the colour contrast of the fluro orange and the black. The ear piece is curved to match the contours of the ear and look comfortable and easy.

Balance: The product is completely symmetrical which enables it to lie flat or standing on end.

Contrast: The bright colour of the fluro orange and the background colour of black makes the product stand out immensely and shows are clear distinction between the outer case and the inner body. The buttons which are placed on the orange part enables the user to clearly see which area is most important when using the product.

Shape: The Sensear SP1x is a upturned trapezoidal shape.

Patterns: Although no obvious pattern can be seen on the product, the placement of the colours seen can be seen as a type of pattern.

Texture: The texture of the smooth main body, with its protruding buttons give users ease of use and comfort when holding the product. The rubber used for the ear phones and the line also give the user a familiar feeling of that of a portable music player.

Colour: The colours of the product, fluro orange and black make the product relevant to the users. As most of the consumers for the product are those in the construction industry, the fluro is appropriate as it allows the consumers to associate the product as a part of their daily work needs.

Balance: Due to its symmetrical trapezoidal form, the product gives the illusion of balance and proportionality.

Scale: The picture above shows that the scale and size of the product is relatively small, therefore it is ergonomically can easily and comfortably fit in the user's hand.

Proportions: The body of the product and the earphones are in proportion to each other as the user is easily able to distinguish which is the main body and which to put in their ears.

More information about the Sensear SP1x can be found at the following websites:

http://designawards.com.au/application_detail.jsp?applicationID=2622
http://www.sensear.com/technology.php
http://www.sensear.com/earplugsp1x.php
http://www.industrysearch.com.au/Products/SP1_and_SP1x_Earplug_System-27928
http://www.westernsafety.com/sensear/sensear.html
http://www.ferret.com.au/c/Sensear/Sensear-wins-2008-DuPont-Innovation-Award-n777201
http://www.sensear.ashop.com.au/p/460614/sp1x.html