Consumer products · Sponsored course
Shark, Redesigned
FOCUS
User research / Ergonomics / CAD / Model making
An ergonomic redesign of the Shark Lightweight 2-in-1 vacuum, grounded in real use and iterative physical testing.
01 / THE CHALLENGE
Everyday cleaning, unnecessary effort.
02 / RESEARCH & PROCESS
User testing identified poor handle ergonomics, controls positioned too close together and wrist posture that deteriorated with prolonged use. Unclear release points and attachment interactions added to the friction.
Put the handle back in people’s hands.
Research with 13 users across different heights and hand sizes informed a series of physical handle studies. Added weight simulated real use. Early improvements in form did not immediately translate into natural interaction, prompting a rethink of grip, control placement and overall balance.
03 / DESIGN DECISIONS
Balance, reach and clearer controls.
The refined concept combines a revised grip, rubberised overmould, differentiated tactile controls and stronger release signifiers. An external battery and revised button positions form part of the proposed architecture. The final weighted prototype closely matched the original product’s mass.
04 / OUTCOME & REFLECTION
Refinement through use.
Final prototype testing indicated a more natural, stable and comfortable interaction, with qualitative improvements in control and intuitiveness. The project demonstrates how modest ergonomic decisions can meaningfully change a familiar product; the work remains a course redesign concept.
