This project was a design competition proposed by the Assa Abloy company lasting only 3 weeks. The clients design brief called for a new passage lever that would address microbial transference by allowing for hands-free use, function with their existing bored-lock internal mechanism, and be non-electronic. It also had to adhere to current door hardware standards. This design won third place in the competition.
Aesthetic Research
I began by exploring visual forms and CMF that applied to the target market of commercial facilities.
I started exploring arm pulls with a corporate contemporary style.
I then began looking at having two handles, one for arm and one for hand.
I also experimented with having the arm pull vertical to benefit ergonomics and accessibility.
I then created a rough model based on my sketches to gain a sense of scale and ergonomics before continuing with the design.
Virtual reality allowed me to iterate handle orientations in a rapid and unique way.
I was able to gain ergonomic insight faster than prototyping and sketching.
Final version utilizes clean and simple design lines to communicate a professional look.
The arm lever rests at a mild tilt to allow for better ergonomics accessibility.
Weight on the handle is mostly centered which inhibits spring deterioration.
Handle and Arm Lever can move independently from each other or operate as a single unit.
Functioning 3D print allowed me to feel the product with real spring tension.