Airplane Tray Table: Global Project
A global design project was carried out which involved three groups of students from remote locations being assigned the task of designing a new innovative airplane tray table for passengers. The global team was made up of students from the University of Strathclyde, City University London and the University of Malta with each university presenting members from different disciplines; Product Design Engineers, Mechanical Engineers and Marketing students.
The aim of this project was to design a new innovative tray table but more specifically to work effectively as a team with different strengths and backgrounds to achieve the same goal.
During the design process a number of methods had to be used to generate concepts. This was challenging to involve all members of the team due to geographical location however communication was set up through three-way conference calling. This allowed all parties to carry out a number of concept generation methods such as 6-3-5, morphilogical chart and an 'image similarity' method for quick fire suggestions.
The range of concepts were evaluated using a matrix approach against selected DATUM design. The criteria in this matrix was derived from critical requirments from both product design and mechanical engineering backgrounds. The results identified two tier concept as the strongest.
Due to the accessibility within Strathclyde University and Strathclyde's sub-team's experience in the workshop, they were tasked with creating and testing basic prototype of the tray table. These models would show form and functionaility.
Using continual synchronous communication and project management the team were able to collaborate and produce a new innovative airplane tray table that improves the user's experience whilst flying. Incorporating the two tier design means that eating and drinking will be easier for the user with more surface space. Having a reading light positioned under the lip of the top tier makes reading easier for passengers without disturbing their fellow flyers. As well as this the USB dock also positioned under the lip of the top tier means passengers can continually charge and use their personal electronic devices throughout their journey.
