Developing Design Through Sketching

Seanpaul Gibson
Feb 20, 2016
4 min read

After creating and developing a basic design through Solidworks I was happy with the current shape and design of the handle. I decided that instead of moving forward and creating the rest of the design on Solidworks that it would be best to begin to begin to sketch out the various parts in order to get a clearer understand in regard to the path I want to take when designing and creating the rest of the product on Solidworks.

As a result of this I began by drawing out the basic handle design focusing on the shape to see how I can edit this to make for better ergonomics. I wanted to focus on the addition of some sort of grip that will enable the user to grip and hold the product easily, especially when wet. I also added some focus to the neck shape, in the previous design I had created the curve, but it didn’t seem sufficient in regards to providing a suitable angle to allow for a comfortable use of the product. So as a result I made the curve in the neck more pronounced to ensure the wrist will be in a more natural position when using the razor, making the product more comfortable to use. I also edited the blade holder of design, adding more detail so you can see how it could be removed / replaced if needs be and how the blade itself would actually attach to the product. I decided to add these details in at this stage as I thought this was an important process in regards to further developing this piece through CAD (Computer Aided Design). This detail would make it easier to create a more realistic product through the use of CAD and make changes / amendments to the necessary areas.

After sketching the basic handle design I went about attempting to design some sort of grip that could be attached to the handle. In the previous CAD design I had simple grips along the top of the handle and this was ok and would provide suitable grip for a range of different hand positions. However I wanted the grip to extend to the side of the product so that the user could have good grip of the product in 3 different areas.

This grip was added in order to provide the user with a more comfortable gip when using the product, allowing for safer use of the product as there is less chance of losing grip whilst shaving. You can see how the grip extends down either side of the product; this will allow the user to grip the product in many different ways providing them with the best grip regardless of the way they are holding the product.

The addition of the grip adds to the overall design of the product creating a more appealing product. Not only does it have functional benefits, it also adds to the aesthetics of the product.

The grip also open up the possibility for future developments including the addition of multiple grips on the handle and also different colour combinations, again adding to the aesthetics and also the saleability of the product.

After creating the basic handle design and redesigning the grip section I decided to focus on the design of the razor head. This component is crucial as it allows the razor blade holder to tilt and adjust to the contours of the customers face / body. When designing and creating this I wanted to keep aesthetics as the most important factor. I focused on this area as I knew when it came to designing and creating this part on Solidworks I could then focus on the functionality of the part and make changes where necessary.

The part is designed to not only hold and support the blade holder, but allow it to swivel as well as be removed completely from the handle to allow for easier blade changes. This then links to better maintenance and customisation of the product.

Overall I am very happy with this particular design and feel the addition of the various curved and slanted faces allow for a better looking design, creating a more professional looking product. It is also clear to see the various functional benefits of this part, the pins that will allow the blades to pivot as well as the slot in to top that will attach the part to the handle.

After designing the part that will attach the handle and hold the blade holder, I could turn my attention to the blade holder part and begin to draw up some sketches. At first I was unsure how I wanted this part to look / function, so I firstly began by drawing out the basic shape I had in mind before adding any detail. (This is the first sketch, bottom left of the page).

After I had the basic shape I could then begin to add some more detail. Detail such as moisturising strips and strengthen supports where added to ensure the part could withstand the pressure when being pressed against the human body. The motorising strips where also added in order to provide the user with more comfort when shaving and prevent any issues with those who have sensitive skin.

The next sketch (top left) I added the various slots that will actually hold the blades. These slots will support the blades and once this part is created on Solidworks I will then be able to design the blades through CAD to ensure they fit securely.

Having designed and sketched the various parts I want to use I was able to then combine these various parts together in order to create the design that I had in mind. This turned out well and I am very pleased with the outcome. As a result of this I feel the next step to take is to now go and begin to design this product using Solidworks.