INDOOR AIR QUALITY 460
W A BREATH OF FRESH AIR! What was the quality of you last breath? In an ever changing world, air quality is becoming one of the main concerns not only for outdoor spaces, but also indoor areas. Besides harmful micro-organisms and allergens like virus, bacteria, pollen, dust etc., bad odors like sweat,cigarette smoke etc. are also the reasons for reduced air quality and comfort in the environment.
AIRBORNE ALLERGEN The Effects of Airborne Allergen Allergy is characterized by an overreaction of the human immune system to a forign protein substance Allergen that is eaten, breathed into the lungs, injected or touched. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one allergen. In an attempt to protect the body, the immune system of the allergic person produces antibodies. Those antibodies then cause mast cells and basophils to release chemicals into the bloodstream to defend against the allergen invader. It s the release of these chemicals that causes allergic reactions, affecting a person s eyes, nose, throat, lungs, skin, or gastrointestinal tract as the body attempts to rid itself of the invading allergen.
MODERN DAY AMERICA... Average household allergen Common allergens effect many of us, these can be pollen, dust mites, mold spores, pet dander, food, insect stings, medicines or other substances. An estimated 60 million Americans suffer from allergies. Worldwide there are hundreds of millions of allergy sufferers. HIGHER ALLERGEN LEVELS IN SUPER INSULATED HOMES COMPARED WITH ORDINARY HOMES 60 Million People SUFFER FROM Asthma and Allergies 200% 160% 6 OUT OF 10 HOMES ARE HAZARDOUS TO OCCUPANTS HEALTH -Underwriters Laboratory CHILDHOOD ASTHMA RATES HAVE INCREASE IN THE PAST 20 YEARS 2x-10x 1 OUT OF 4 PEOPLE SUFFER FROM ALLERGIES MORE POLLUTANTS INDOOR THAN OUTDOOR EVERY DAY IN AMERICA 90% PEOPLE SPEND A LARGE PORTION OF THEIR DAYS INDOORS * Information found in a study done by Underwriters Laboratories People suffer from respiratory attack 44,000 4,700 1,200 9 Emergency room visits due to respiratory issues Are hospitalized due to respiratory issues People die from respiratory issues
THE AIR YOU BREATH... Common Airborne Allergen We are exposed to various allergens throughout our daily lives. The range of particle sizes we encounter in our environment, measured in microns, vary widely. Particulate Size.08-2 microns 5-75 microns.01-10 microns.005 -.02 microns.05-15 microns 10-100 microns 0.1-2 microns VIRUSES SMOKE DUST / MITES VOC S PET DANDER MOLD POLLEN Dust and dust mites live in human habitation, causing respiratory issue, which can also trigger asthmas attacks. A bi-product of manufacturing or burning of tobacco, smoke can cause irritation to the lungs and sinuses. Dust and dust mites live in human habitation, causing respiratory issue, which can also trigger asthmas attacks. Household products emit harmful chemicals into the air that are severely harmful to the respiratory system Composed of microscopic flecks of animal skin, animal dander is one of the most common allergens. Hiding in your wall and under carpet, breathing in mold spores can lead to a variety of symptoms from mild to deadly. Trees and plant pollen are common allergens brought into the house via air, or by humans and animals.
ALLERGEN AFFECTS... JUSTIFICATION The Impact of Allergen It is very important to address the potential causes of poor indoor air quality. If left untreated, air quality issues can have a detrimental impact on our health. Research is showing that people are now spending as much as 90% of their time indoors, and if the indoor air is polluted, this could pose a significant health risk. Sinus Congestion Asthma Attacks Respiratory Irritation Cultural Norms Mental Unintuitive Plants Utility Furniture Lamps Location Portability Purifier Clothing Filter Broom PROBLEMS ENVIRONMENT OBJECTS Dust Mask Vacuum Service Viruses Concentrator Knowledge Presentation Personalized Carpet Food Dehumidifier Dust Pan Serviceability Curtains Features Trash Expense Pollen Humidifier Bed Smoke Utility Central-air Respirator Well-being Health Relaxation Shortness of Breath Memory Loss Fatigue Emotional Social Physical Cultural Size Duster Cieling Fan Emotional Toilet Dirt Physical Usability Windows Storage Counter-top Animals Maintenance Personal Satisfaction Health Multi-functional Containment Size Social Status Skin Irritation Depression HUMAN FACTORS Cognition Increased Allergies Sleep Quality Headaches & Nausea Eye / Nose Irritation
AIR PURIFICATION User Experience & Market Analysis An air purifier is a device which removes contaminants from the air in a room. These devices are commonly marketed as being beneficial to allergy sufferers and asthmatics, and at reducing or eliminating various allergen. The commercially graded air purifiers are manufactured as either small stand-alone units or larger units that can be affixed to an air handler unit found in the medical, industrial, and commercial industries. Air purifiers may also be used in industry to remove impurities such as CO2 from air before processing. There are a variety of technologies that focus on eliminating specific allergen.
ADDRESSING ALLERGEN Solution Categories User Actions I Behaviors To control their environment user take various measures, either proactive or reactive, to establish a comfortable living situation. Reactive Poor Efectiveness - Effectiveness + Effectiveness Highly Effective Target Area Proactive Air Purifiers The most effective way of containing allergen, and establishing high quality indoor air levels is performed with the use of an air filtration system. Based on filtration technology the user can choose a system that will catering to the users needs. Humidifiers Humidifiers are a great proactive measure is containing pollen, dust, and mites. Establishing a proper humidity levels aid in allowing us to have a healthy respiratory system Brooms / Vacuums The use of conventional brooms and mop techniques are effective at removing large debris particles, thought they often contribute to spreading dust, pollen and mites around the house. Natural Measures Through various studies scientists have been able to monitor the air purification properties of specific plants that can help in reducing allergens in you home. Neutralizers Using fragrance sprays, or fragrance releasing products such as candles or air fresheners are effective at neutralizing odors, though the can also contribute to high allergen level with the release of VOC s.
BENCHMARK PRODUCT Product Operation and Analysis The majority of air purifiers on the market at floor based unit. Most of the system on the marktet utilize 2 or moer filter medums to improve enviornment filtration. Purified, Fresh Air Exhaust Port Control Panel Pre-Filter Mesh Filter Catalyst Filter Internal Filter Polluted Air Purified, Fresh Air Medium FIlter Carbon Based Filter Brushless Motor Most products on the market will only offer 2-3 different filter technologies, as compared to this process analysis that feature a majority of the technologies on the market. Intake Port Polluted Air
ITS ALL IN THE TECHNOLOGY Current Air Filtration Technology The primary feature of each product is based on the use of a specific of modern filtration systems. Each system is tailored to fulfill the consumer needs and wants. Catalyst HEPA Ionic Electrostatic Carbon Dust Mites Pollen Mold Bacteria Viruses >.3 microns Viruses <.4 microns VOC s Odors Smoke Technology Description Destroys any sized organic particulate. Works on viruses and VOC gases to pollen, dust mites, and pet dander. FDA approved Class II Medical certified. Affective against dust mites, pollen spores, and bacteria when within specified size. Ineffective against gases and various viruses. Noisy system during operation. uses negatively charged ions to charge dust, dander, and other matter. Ineffective against odors, gases, and biological agents. Silent operation. Removes particles from the air using the force of an induced electrostatic charge. Moves a high volume of air. Mostly effective in trapping large particles. Carbon medium is widely used to absorb odorous substances from gases. Traps other carbon-based impurities as well as chlorine. Not effective against large particles.
PURIFICATION PROBLEMS The Downfall of Floor Mounted Purifiers The technology of most filters are sufficient in purifying the air to the intended quality, though it is the fact that stand alone air purifiers face a multitude of variables that effect their efficiency. Floor mounted air purifiers are often restricted by objects within the house, reducing the efficiency of air circulation during purification. OBSTRUCTIONS LOCATION Insights: Overcome the variables of in house obstructions and locational issues that stand alone air unit face. Bedroom Bath Kitchen Dining Bedroom Living Room Floor mounted purifier are often located in places where they are not able to work effectively.
ALLERGY SUFFERERS Air Purifier Users & Professional Interviews An air purifier is a device which removes contaminants from the air in a room. These devices are commonly marketed as being beneficial to allergy sufferers and asthmatics, and at reducing or eliminating various allergen. The commercially graded air purifiers are manufactured as either small stand-alone units or larger units that can be affixed to an air handler unit found in the medical, industrial, and commercial industries. Air purifiers may also be used in industry to remove impurities such as CO2 from air before processing. There are a variety of technologies that focus on eliminating specific allergen.
USER SURVEY Common Airborne Allergies Survey Take Aways How often do you experience allergies? 16% 28% 18% 26% The average person suffers from allergies several times a month. A close second, people suffer from allergies on a dialy bases. 47% 5% 1% 42% 10% 3% What are your common sypmtoms? The average person suffers from sneezing How often do you experience allergies? Once a year Several times a year Several times a month On a daily biases I do not have allergies 16% 28% What are your common symptoms? Coughing Rash / Hives Sneezing Itchy / watery eyes Other 26% 18% A close second, people suffer from itcy and watery eyes What preventative measure do you take? The average person takes some form of seasonal medication A close second, people use an air purifier 47% 5% 1% 42% 10% 3% What is the cause of your allergies? The average person suffers from pollen allergies What preventative measure do you take? I take daily medication I clean often Taking seasonal medication I use an air purifier I just live with it What is the cuase of your alergies? Dust Animal Dander Pollen Mold Urban Enviornment A close second, people suffer pet dander and dust
A WORD FROM THE USERS User Observation I Interviews Ethnographic research of user lead to understanding the areas, and needs from the users. DEBBIE MOORE ALEX PERNELL FRANK MALYKIN Rural Environment Urban Environment Suburban Environment Receptionist / Homeowner / Farmhouse Graphic Artist / Renter / Downtown Construction worker / Homeowner / Prefab house Age: 62 Location: Logansport, IN Family Size: 2 Adults / 2 Children / 3 Dogs / Ducks / Chickens Allergies: Minimal Insights Insights Insights Behaviors Behaviors Behaviors - Cleans primary using a duster and broom / dust pan - Covers light panel to reduce light when sleeping - Moves his purifier around the house - Prefers having the windows open in her home - Adds natural fragrance to filter - Washes filter out in the sink - Uses a air humidifier as well to reduce dust - Uses 2 compact unit in his apartment - Uses a vacuum to remove dust from filter daily Needs Needs Needs - More integrated into my life - Easily serviceable - Multi-function and multi-seasonal Age: 37 Location: Indianapolis, IN Family Size: 1 Adults / 1 Cat Allergies: Moderate - More compact system, space is limited - Easily serviceable - Multi-functional and multi-seasonal Age: 45 Location: Ft Wayne, IN Family Size: 2 Adults Allergies: High seasonal allergies - Some kind of air quality report would be nice - More sleek design / his is obstructive - Multi-functional and multi-seasonal
HIGH LEVEL SUMMARY User Beliefs I Interactions I Behaviors Common I Current Product Characteristics + Versiility + Serviceability + Circulation Unique User Behaviors Washing the filters Vacuuming debris of filter DIY box fan filter combination Adding essential oils to filter - Noise - Smell - Location Healthy living is a motivation that prompts people to use an air filtration system. People often wash or vacuum their filters for reuse. The fact that doing so reduces the filters effectiveness is often overlooked. Users often find or create DIY workaround inorder to achieve optimal performance from their off shelf units. User testimonial It s difficult to tell the circulation abilities of my current system. I use fragrance oil on the filter to give me an indicator of the area the purifier work.
TARGET USERS Understanding the End User Insight gained through research lead to the discover of the needs desires of the end user. ALLERGY SUFFERER HEALTH ENTHUSIASTS PET LOVERS Allison Sweeney Professional mother Age: 38 Location: Scottsdale, AZ Family Size: 2 Adults / 3 Children Allergen Exposure Mark & Jane Fuller Lawyer I Newspaper Editor Age: 62-64 Location: Ft Lauderdale, FL Family Size: 2 Adults / 1 Cat Allergen Exposure The Nelsons Average American Family Age: 9-42 Location: Mobile, AB Family Size: 2 Adults / 2 Children / 1 Dog / 1 Cat Allergen Exposure Needs: Removes VOC s Wants: Has improved air circulation Wishes: Changes the smell of the fresh air Needs: Multi-functional system Wants: Quiet and effective Wishes: Simple and modern design Needs: Filter out dust Wants: Work throughout the house Wishes: Capture animal hair
BREATH WITH EASE Air Purification Concept Development After performing ethnographic research and gaining user insights, I began to focus on developing an air purification system that will address the issues at hand while meeting the needs, and desires of the end user.
CONCEPT SURVEY User Survey of Preliminary Concepts After performing a brainstorm that focused on finding possible solutions to issues the users faced. I performed a user surrey of concept storyboards to gains insights of what the users found to be a viable solution. Take aways - Must have a visually light design - Make the blades or fan more sleek, or integrated - Controlled using an app - Built-in air quality monitor - Act as a ceiling fan, with integrated blades - Easy access filter User survey testimonials I afraid that this might become to cumbersome, though it is a very unique approach I m surprised that I haven t seen this before, I think it will work great I hate ceiling fans because of the blades, get rid of the fan blades or make them better looking It would be cool to control it from an app, otherwise a remote control I would like to have a built in air quality monitor as well, to see how well it is working The filter replacement seems very appealing, as long as you don;t have to remove a cumbersome piece of plastic to access it Concepts Integrated Serviceability Technology Circulation Uniqueness 42% 32% 35% 52% 28% 11% 12% 31% 33% 40% 13% 6% 9% 5% 11% 8% 22% 7% 3% 8% 26% 28% 18% 7% 13%
EVALUATING THE DIRECTION Configuration // Location Analysis The survey showed that the user were interested in a ceiling mounted system. The ensure that should be the intended direction I created a couple other concepts and tested them in the enviornment. 1/2 Scale Model I Aurora Ceiling Air Purifier Ceiling Mounted Purifier Wall Mounted Purifier Counter-Top Purifier Blends well with the environment and is easily approachable. Great location for interaction, though the size might be limiting to internal components. Viable solution, thought it still could face the issues of poor circulation and obstruction. Pros // Cons Pros // Cons Pros // Cons + Being integrated into the ceiling + Improved air flow + Easy to service + Blends into to environment well + Ease of access to operate + Easy to service + Blends into to environment well + Ease of access to operate + Easy to service - Installation may be a challenge for most - Heights of filter for servicing - Requires secondary remote or control switch - May be too heavy for wall mount - Power cable may cause challenge - Air circulation may still be poor - May be too small to be effective - Power cable may cause challenge - Air circulation may still be poor
Inspirational Products I Trends DESIGN DISCOVERY Finding a Functional and Appealing Design Inspired by consumer insights and market trends, the initial concepts were refined to meet the needs, and desires of the user. The concepts were pushed throughout various design styles and configurations to achieve a holistic design that would Centralized filter Organic teardrop profile Concave intake vent
AURORA AIR PURIFIER
PRODUCT ANALYSIS Product Manufacturing I Components A majority of the Auroras components can be manufacture using plastice mold injection. A Hanger Post Rolled steel Hanger Mount Plastic mold injection Mount Cover Stamped steel A Top Housing Plastic mold injection E C Chrome Trim Plastic mold injection Motor Vendor supplied B D Fan Blade Plastic mold injection Air Diffuser Plastic mold injection A Heat Diffuser Cast aluminum Lower Housing Plastic mold injection A B Internal Ribbing The use of ribbing on plastic components increase its rigidity. Increasing it s ability to hold up against deflection under load. Lip and Groove The use of a lip and groove is an essential manufacturing process in order to achieve proper component alignment. Improving overall fit and finish. C D E Ultrasonic Fusion The chrome detail on the product is fused together with the top housing through ultrasonic plastic fusion Overmold Also known as 2 shot molding. A thermoplastic polymer is molded on top of a plastic mold injected component. Mold Slide The vents on the top housing will require a slide in the mold in order to achieve the proper design LED ICB Vendor supplied Light Lens Plastic mold injection Filter Assembly Plastic mold injection Air Intake Plastic mold injection
IMPROVED CIRCULATION Internal Operation and Components With the use of an internal fan, the Aurora pulls contaminated air through the catalyst filter via the center vents. The purified air is then circulated out through the top vents and across the ceiling. Fresh air is circulated out through the top vent Allergen is pull up into the purifier through the center vents Allergen Particulates
FILTRATION TECHNOLOGY Filter Medium and Attributes Using a 3 stage / multiple filtration medium maximizes the effectiveness of filtering out allergen. 3 Primary Filter Attributes 3 Catalyst Filter Pros // Cons + Very effective at removing organic allergen + Low drag filter (more quiet operation) + Longer service lift than carbon - Cannot clean yourself - Poor at trapping large dust particles - The filter acts as a blah blah blh Targeted Allergen Filter Cartridge 2 Carbon Filter Pros // Cons + The most absorbent filter available + Captures chemical fumes, gases, cigarette smoke, and odors + Does not release contaminants back into the air - Does not remove dust and other allergens - Does not remove micro-organisms Targeted Allergen 2 1 1 HEPA Filter Pros // Cons + Removes dust, pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and other allergens + Removes most bacteria + Solid particles captured are not released into the air again - Does not remove chemical fumes, cigarette smoke, or odors - Not as effective in capturing the smallest viruses - Micro-organisms captured in filter can breed or reproduce Targeted Allergen
Purified air is circulated around the room from the ceiling downwards in a circular motion Control Switch Allergen is pull up into the purifier through the center vents