Journal 1

In order to make our invention “Innovative, Feasible, Applicable and Contributive”, we have to think from the perspectives of citizens from different background, and instead of thinking “what is the most outstanding creation?”, we should think about “what design would benefit the community most?”

Through the Prototype Design Workshop, we presented our ideas to our mentors. Since they are experts in the design and technical fields, we find their advice very useful and inspiring. Take the design and potential problems as examples, they raised concerns like misusage of the facility and safety, they also suggested the minimization of size and electricity used. These are challenges we would only face in the latter stage of production and application, still, it would be nice for us to take these into concerns before it's too late to make amendments. 

We also came to the realization that, when we are introducing something new to the community, we must pay effort in conserving the distinctive community features. 

We were a bit too distracted by the appearance, gimmicks, and attractiveness of it, thus overlooking these crucial factors that could affect the public's acceptance towards our design.

Moreover, we believe that being innovative does not only mean being creative, it also means being "greener", and bringing convenience to the user of our design.

That is why we have been working on these matters:  

The materials we should use to enhance its durability and to make it more environmentally friendly, for instance instead of using metal and plastics what could be used. 

The minimization of malfunction. It's an outdoor facility and electricity is used, how could we make it water-proof and prevent it from malfunction, especially on rainy days when the facility is in high demand.

Every design has its flaws, we also believe that we improve not only by receiving suggestions, through trying, failing and learning from our mistakes and experiences could definitely help us to perfect our design, making it more applicable to our daily life, as well as the community. 

“It’s always about thinking outside the box and not to be afraid to make the first step.”

We are confident in making a user-friendly invention that will bring convenience and innovation to the community. 

足輕台，你的扶助手足。