Design Constraints
Design Constraints
Space-saving possibilities
Collapsible, $15 Per Mollerup, 2001, 240 p.
Witness this marvelous gallery of ingenious objects that unroll, unfold, and unstack in order to save space or become more portable. The examples range from the obvious unfolding umbrellas and strollers, to non-obvious unfolding cameras, bicycles, and ladders. As we become (or return to) more nomadic beings, collapsible products are ever more desirable. Almost anything could be designed to collapse. This collection is an inspiring catalog of what is possible. — KK
Ergonomic guidance
Human Dimension & Interior Space, $27 Panero and Martin Zelnik, 1979, 320 p.
When designing a space or wearables for humans, you’ll need precise measurements of our size. How high to put a door knob, the circumference of our necks, how far we can reach overhead? There’s no such thing as an average person, so you’ll also need to know what the variances are, too. There’s a number of good sources for this data, but the most complete set, with the greatest clarity, and most affordable price is Human Dimensions. This data set was distilled from ergonomic research started by NASA for designing space capsules and broadened over the years to include the ergonomics of wheelchairs and crutches, bathtubs, workplaces and public spaces among many other everyday situations. I prefer its very graphic presentation. Good for architects, costume designers, gadget makers, interface designers, and interior decorators. — KK