2.2 - Desingers And Influcence Of Their Work

Question 1

Charles and Ray Eames extra notes:

Answer 1

They had been inspired by the De Stijl movement. And had work on the LCW also working with the USA Navy developing leg splints from laminated polymer - they had paved the way for seating in both plywood and polymer

Question 2

What are some key features within James Dyson DC01?

Answer 2

By changing the dust collection system he was able to reduce the dust without reducing suction
The contrasting colour scheme means that key features were able to be identified easier
A large number of integral fixings means that the disassembly of the product is easy
The clear dustbin ensures that the user feels that they know they have collected/done a good job

Question 3

Extra information on Dieter Rams and his work with Braun?

Answer 3

Making the SK4 radio set he replaced ornamental wooden casting with grey and dark looking minimal designs
He heavily relied on technology and machinery in order to do so using thermoplastics as such

Question 4

What are and explain the meaning of the ten key desing prinincples that dieter Rams came up with

Answer 4

1. Good design is innovative
   The possibilities for innovation are not, by any means, exhausted. Technological development is always offering new opportunities for innovative design. But innovative design always develops in tandem with innovative technology, and can never be an end in itself.
2. Good design makes a product useful
   A product is bought to be used. It has to satisfy certain criteria, not only functional, but also psychological and aesthetic. Good design emphasises the usefulness of a product whilst disregarding anything that could possibly detract from it.
3. Good design is aesthetic
   The aesthetic quality of a product is integral to its usefulness because products we use every day affect our person and our well-being. But only well-executed objects can be beautiful.
4. Good design makes a product understandable
   It clarifies the products structure. Better still, it can make the product talk. At best, it is self-explanatory.
5. Good design is unobtrusive
   Products fulfilling a purpose are like tools. They are neither decorative objects nor works of art. Their design should therefore be both neutral and restrained, to leave room for the users self-expression.
6. Good design is honest
   It does not make a product more innovative, powerful or valuable than it really is. It does not attempt to manipulate the consumer with promises that cannot be kept.
7. Good design is long-lasting
   It avoids being fashionable and therefore never appears antiquated. Unlike fashionable design, it lasts many years - even in today’s throwaway society.
8. Good design is thorough down to the last detail
   Nothing must be arbitrary or left to chance. Care and accuracy in the design process show respect towards the consumer.
9. Good design is environmentally friendly
   Design makes an important contribution to the preservation of the environment. It conserves resources and minimises physical and visual pollution throughout the lifecycle of the product.
10. Good design is as little design as possible
    Less, but better - because it concentrates on the essential aspects, and the products are not burdened with non-essentials. Back to purity, back to simplicity.