Internet Assignment 4

By, Garvit Raj

Brock ID: 7613557

Goodman School of Business, Brock University

MBAB 5P68, New Product Development

Professor Dr. Narongsak (Tek) Thongpapanl

Date: 14/June/2023
The three products that caught my eye were
1. Mechanical pencil
2. VCR
3. Self-service parking attendant
 
1. The Mechanical Pencil( J. Darnell, 1996):
 
The initial mechanical pencil described exhibits certain design flaws that may render it
impractical for usage.
 
The act of placing an eraser under a cap introduces an additional step in the erasing process.
This task can prove to be a laborious and vexing process, particularly in cases where one is
prone to committing frequent errors. Furthermore, as previously stated, there exists a
potential hazard of misplacing the cap over an extended period, thereby exacerbating the
eradication procedure.
 
The eraser size of the pencil is diminutive, potentially resulting in inadequate surface area for
optimal erasure. This implies that one may need to allocate additional time and exertion
towards erasing when utilizing a pencil that possesses a smaller eraser in comparison to a
pencil that features a larger eraser.
 
The act of pushing the cap back onto the pencil inadvertently serves as a mechanism for
advancing the lead. This phenomenon may pose a challenge as it hinders the continuity of
writing and necessitates supplementary exertion to reposition the writing instrument. The
introduced action is deemed superfluous as it hinders the primary purpose of the cap, which is
to safeguard the eraser.
 
RECTIFICATION
 
In order to address the aforementioned issues, it is plausible that an alternative design for the
pencil could have been implemented.
 
 A design modification for pencils is the integration of an eraser at the top end,
eliminating the need for a separate cap to cover the eraser. By implementing this
method, the necessity of eliminating or being concerned about misplacing an
individual cap during the erasing process would be obviated. The dimensions of the
eraser should be sufficient to ensure optimal erasing performance and minimize the
need for frequent replacement.
 
 Implementing a dedicated mechanism specifically designed for this purpose as
opposed to relying solely on the cap. This mechanism could take the form of a
separate button located on the pencil barrel. The optimal placement of the button
should take into account various gripping styles to ensure ease of access for users
while writing, either with their thumb or finger.
 
The implementation of these design modifications would enhance the user-friendliness of the
pencil. The proposed design modification would integrate the cap and eraser functionalities,
resulting in enhanced erasing capabilities and a more efficient writing process by separating
the actions of attaching the cap and advancing the lead.
 
 
1. VCR (J. Darnell, 1996):
 
The design of the VCR that loads tapes from the top, as depicted in the image, presents
certain limitations that may impede its usability and integration within the intended setting.
The present design exhibits certain issues that require attention. Below are some possible
solutions to address these concerns:
 
 One limitation of the top-loading VCR mechanism is its restricted placement options
due to the requirement of vertical clearance above the device for tape loading. As a
result, it cannot be conveniently situated on a shelf or beneath other objects. The
limited placement options of the VCR curtail its spatial adaptability within a given
environment.
 
 The proper management of heat dissipation is a crucial factor to consider in the
operation of electronics, such as VCRs, as they generate heat that can lead to
overheating and hinder optimal performance. The design that features a loading
mechanism located at the top of the device may impede the circulation of air and
hinder proper ventilation, which could result in the accumulation of heat.
 
 The VCR's top-loading design poses a limitation in terms of object stacking as it
precludes users from placing additional items on the VCR's surface, including but not
limited to televisions or other electronic devices. This constraint can pose a significant
challenge, especially in scenarios where there is a scarcity of physical space or when
individuals aim to establish a condensed entertainment arrangement.
 
RECTIFICATIONS
 
 The implementation of a front-loading design appears to be a more appropriate
solution in this particular scenario. The relocation of the cassette slot to the frontal
area of the VCR would facilitate the process of loading and unloading tapes for users
without necessitating supplementary vertical clearance. This feature would facilitate
the accommodation of the VCR in confined areas or on bookshelves, thereby
enhancing the versatility of its placement.
 
 A potential solution to enable the stacking of additional objects would be to
reconfigure the VCR design by incorporating a flat and robust top surface. The
provision of a stable platform enables users to place their television or other electronic
devices directly on the VCR, thereby optimizing space utilization and creating a more
integrated and organized configuration.
 
 A potential solution to enhance the VCR's heat dissipation efficiency would be to
integrate ventilation slots or a fan system into its design, specifically on the sides or
rear. Ensuring that the VCR operates within an appropriate temperature range would
prevent any potential performance issues that may arise due to overheating.
 
By incorporating these design considerations, it is possible to develop a VCR that can
effectively overcome the constraints associated with the top-loading design. Incorporating a
front-loading mechanism, facilitating object stacking, and ensuring adequate heat dissipation
would yield a VCR that is more adaptable and convenient for users and can be seamlessly
integrated into diverse settings and configurations.
1. Self-Service Parking Attendant (J. Darnell, 1996):
 
The depicted self-service mechanism utilized for remunerating parking fees in an unmanned
parking area exhibits a design inadequacy that may pose challenges for individuals with
restricted manual dexterity or arthritis. The present design exhibits certain issues that require
attention. Possible solutions to address these issues are as follows:
 
The act of folding and inserting dollar bills in an upward direction into a narrow slot can pose
a challenge for individuals with arthritis or limited hand mobility. The acquisition of fine
motor skills necessary for accurate folding and insertion may present notable challenges and
emotional distress.
 
Proposal: A redesign of the payment mechanism to accommodate unfolded bills could
enhance user friendliness. The device may be outfitted with a bill acceptor that has the
capability to directly accept unfolded bills. This would obviate the necessity for intricate
folding techniques and enable users to effortlessly insert the bills in a direct manner.
 
The accessibility and visibility of numbered parking slots may pose challenges for individuals
with specific physical disabilities. In cases where the placement of the slots is at an
inconvenient height or angle, it may exacerbate the device's lack of usability.
 
The enhancement of usability can be achieved by placing the numbered slots at a height that
is easily accessible to individuals with varying heights and mobility. The payment slots ought
to be readily observable and accessible, enabling users to effortlessly insert their payment
without encountering any physical strain or discomfort. Effective visibility can be enhanced
by utilizing clear signage and appropriate illumination.
 
The exclusive dependence on cash and manual bill insertion as payment options may restrict
the device's accessibility, as individuals may not always possess cash on hand. This can pose
a significant challenge for individuals who depend on electronic payment methods or
encounter difficulties managing physical currency.
 
Proposal: The integration of various payment methods could potentially enhance
accessibility. The incorporation of contactless payment options, such as mobile payment
applications or credit or debit cards, would enhance user convenience and inclusivity by
catering to those who favour or necessitate alternative payment modes.
 
The redesign of the self-service parking payment device could enhance user friendliness by
taking into account the varied capabilities and requirements of prospective users. This
encompasses the facilitation of unfolded bill insertion, guaranteeing the accessible placement
and visibility of payment slots, and furnishing alternative payment alternatives that extend
beyond cash. The proposed modifications have the potential to augment the usability of the
system, especially for users with physical disabilities or ailments such as arthritis, thereby
enhancing the overall user experience.
 Reference

 J. Darnell, M. (1996). Retrieved from http://www.baddesigns.com/pens.html 

 J. Darnell, M. (1996). Retrieved from http://www.baddesigns.com/vcr.html 
 J. Darnell, M. (1996). Retrieved from http://www.baddesigns.com/parking.html