

Is This a Bag?
Observation and Intervention
Product & Industrial Design
2015
2015
The "Is this a BAG" project exemplifies a user-centered approach to industrial and product design, addressing ergonomic challenges encountered in public seating areas.
This project was designed and presented as part of the final show at Bootcamp 2015, MFA Design and Technology. As a culmination of the design section, all cohorts showcased their work at the Design Fair.
This project was designed and presented as part of the final show at Bootcamp 2015, MFA Design and Technology. As a culmination of the design section, all cohorts showcased their work at the Design Fair.




Design Process
Location: High Line
Observation
Location: High Line
Observation


Methodology
AEIOU:
Activity
Environment
Interactions
Objects
Users
Sketch
AEIOU:
Activity
Environment
Interactions
Objects
Users
Sketch


Activities:
Users engaging in various tasks such as eating, reading, or relaxing on the benches.
Users engaging in various tasks such as eating, reading, or relaxing on the benches.
Environment:
The High Line's public setting, characterized by its unique bench designs and the dynamic flow of visitors.
The High Line's public setting, characterized by its unique bench designs and the dynamic flow of visitors.
Interactions:
The manner in which individuals interact with the benches, including their seating positions and adjustments made to accommodate comfort.
The manner in which individuals interact with the benches, including their seating positions and adjustments made to accommodate comfort.
Objects:
The benches themselves, along with personal items like bags, books, and food containers.
The benches themselves, along with personal items like bags, books, and food containers.
Users:
A diverse group of visitors with varying needs and preferences.
A diverse group of visitors with varying needs and preferences.
Problem Identification:
The benches feature a pronounced incline in their backrests, limiting seating positions and making it uncomfortable for users who wish to sit upright while eating or reading.
The benches feature a pronounced incline in their backrests, limiting seating positions and making it uncomfortable for users who wish to sit upright while eating or reading.
Design Solution:
In response to this ergonomic issue, the concept of an adjustable bag was developed. This multifunctional accessory serves dual purposes:
In response to this ergonomic issue, the concept of an adjustable bag was developed. This multifunctional accessory serves dual purposes:
- Lumbar Support: When placed against the inclined backrest, the bag provides support for the lower back, enabling users to maintain an upright posture conducive to activities like reading or dining.
- Portable Side Table: The bag can be transformed into a small side table, offering a stable surface for placing books, food, or other personal items.
This solution not only enhances user comfort but also exemplifies the integration of ergonomic principles into product design, effectively bridging the gap between user needs and environmental constraints.