Prototyping and Evaluation.
This phase of the project saw the group take their concept from the paper to reality. Using cardboard mock-ups, textile manufacturing and teamwork the group was able to craft a physical and functioning product.
List of Requirements.
The list of requirements was updated with the user to ensure the product that is created addresses the user's most up-to-date pain points and suggestions.
Dimensions.
The group also discussed overall dimensions in in preparation for the prototyping stage.
The final render before creation clearly communicates the proposed product. The back pack would act as a system for the mother to pick and choose which compartments she needs for her specific day. This system mostly revolves around a breastfeeding bag that could contain all of her equipment.
Figure 3.1: The final polished concept drawing before physical prototyping.
Materials
The case owner was very conscious of buying quality products and their overall impact on the environment. Due to this the group felt as the materials and construction of the bag had a large impact on the final product and the user's satisfaction with the product.
Note: These materials would be used in the final product, for the prototype some materials were too expensive or unattainable for the time frame.
Main Fabric
Polyester was chosen as the main material for the final prototype.
Back Support
EVA foam and closed cell foam will be the material used for the straps for their comfort and breathability.
Straps
For the padding in the straps, an open-cell foam is chosen which will be covered with waterproof polyester
Hygienic Mat
The hygienic mat will consist of a layered combination of polyester, hard washable plastic and foam.
Bike / Stroller attachment
Nylon Wil be used in order to hold the weight of the bag and provide durability on the hard wearing attachment segments.
Fidlock Mounting
Some of the main sections of Mumoba are secured using Fidlock magnet system. This ensures a secure fit without sacrificing the ease of detachment.
Production.
From the list of requirements and the final concept design, the group began to prototype the design. Regarding the level of the prototype, the team aimed to create a mid-high level prototype where its functions could be evaluated, however the materials used would not resemble the final product due to availability and budget concerns. To kick-start the process the team constructed a cardboard mock-up of the finall design. These cardboard placeholders would also be used as rough stencils for the final prototype. From this, the team moved to textile creation with two sewing machines being used. Each component was made and eventually assembled together into the final product.
Using the cardboard available in the design lab, some tape and rough dimensions from the second co-design session, the team created the 1:1 mock-up. This medium allowed for multiple quick changes and a collaborative session with measurement and volumes being adjusted on the fly to suit the overall footprint of the bag.
Cardboard Mock-ups.
Textile Creation.
Moving forward from the cardboard mock-up the group started to create a physical textile prototype. The group acquired two sewing machines and got to work. The bag was made up of multiple compartments so each was made with similar processes and template.
The breast pumping bag was constructed with an insulated lining. This material was repurposed from an old lunchbag.
Each bag was sewn grey fabric on the outside, green fabric on the inside, and with a fleece lining between layers to help the bags keep their shape. These colours were chosen because the participant specified that she would like the product to look plain enough for work, however her favourite colour is sage green.
Figure 3.2: The cardboard mock-up bag and the drawings from the co design session that aided the measurements and requirements.
Figure 3.3: Creation of the Mumoba, with workshop sessions and members sewing at home.
Regarding the fasteners and connection elements in the prototype, simpler materials were used due to budget concerns as well as availability. In the prototype, velcro is used to mimic the connection of the Fidlock fasteners as well as to make the straps adjustable. Furthermore, in the real product, the bike attathment system will be slightly elasticated to be able to fit different bikes, and allow for more stability.
Final Protoype.
After a week of construction the Mumoba, the first testable prototype was finished. The bag consisted of multiple compartments that were specifically suited and chosen by the group's users. For this prototype each component were joined with Velcro for ease of testing and pricing. The aim of this bag system is to tackle the user's problem with needing multiple bags to fit her usual work belongings with her breast milk pumping equipment. Because of the velcro the group can test wit the user which compartments she would use on certain days, if she would prefer a different layout or possibly additions to the design.
Figure 3.4: The final prototype. On the back, laid out view, and carrying the detachable breastfeeding bag.
User Feedback.
Once the prototype was completed, the group wanted to test it with the participant and receive her feedback. Unfortunately, during the time period that was set aside for testing, the participant was unavailable. Therefore, the user feedback was received virtually.
Method
To ensure that Maria would understand the concept and envision how it functions, a concept video was made. This video aimed to describe the main idea behind the product and its ever-shifting form. Along with the video, she was sent a list of questions and guiding points for feedback.
In addition to this, the prototype was also evaluated during the filming of the video. By re-enacting prospective scenarios during filming, some things were noted that worked well, or could be improved. For example, the bike attachment was created using measurement from the bike that shall be used in the project exhibition. These dimensions were not the same as the bike in the video, and thus the attachment workied, but it was not as secure. This highlighted the need for an elasticated mechanism as specified in the list of requirements.
Feedback
The participant was not able to meet in person on time so an alternative option to test the prototype was prepared. By using the explanation video and final design sketches the participant got insight into our final design. From there, a small questionnaire was conducted to get feedback and check if some requirements were fulfilled. The questions are about the style of the design, overall usability, ergonomics, pumping section, and the bike attachment.
One important requirement for the backpack is that the style is suitable for work but not too dull. Based on the style collages the participant liked, the backpack was designed. In the survey, the participant answered that the backpack is suitable for work as well as outside of work.
The participant is overall positive about the usability of the backpack. She likes the overall flexibility of the different compartments and that they can be used on their own or shared with other people. Since all bags are detachable it is possible to have only a compact laptop bag which she likes. The bags are easy to attach based on her answer but she has concerns that they can also easily be stolen. This concern is likely to be eliminated with the introduction of the magnetic snap fasteners. A sample fastener was tested by the group and it is very strong, and the bags can only be removed by a sliding motion.
It is difficult to rate the ergonomics since the participant did not actually wear the backpack but she mentions that it looks ergonomically pleasing. Next to that, she mentions that there are not any compartments missing or unnecessary.
The participant likes the layout of the pumping bag and has no extra recommendations or concerns about this section.
The extra strap which makes it possible to only wear one bag is a nice addition according to her.
The bike attachment is, according to her, a clever solution and she only would recommend having a rain cover somewhere.
