Working grip prototype
CF2000 was a team project exploring a shaver for people with reduced grip strength. We developed a functional prototype in which an air pump inflated a silicone grip around the hand while a motor drove the shaving mechanism. Physical models and user feedback informed the shape, weight distribution and interaction.
Proposed comfort settings
Adjustable shaving modes were part of the product concept.
Structural simulation
Finite element analysis modelled static loads and a drop from 1.8 metres to investigate stresses in the design. These were simulations used to guide prototype development and future physical testing.
Designed to Help
The product concept combined an assisted grip, rotary shaving head and simplified controls. The working prototype demonstrated the grip and drive mechanism; the finished enclosure and additional shaving features were explored in CAD.
Motor-control concept
Speed adjustment was included in the product concept.
Shaving-head concept
A flexible head was proposed to follow facial contours.
Engineered to Work
The functional prototype combined an air pump, motor, battery and control circuit. The assembly was developed alongside the enclosure to explore component fit, weight distribution and the assisted-grip interaction.
Air-pump grip mechanism
Demonstrated in a functional prototype
DC motor and rotary gearing
Motor and air pump powered by a rechargeable battery
A New User Interaction
The gripping mechanism was designed to support the hand and reduce the need for a sustained grip. A functional prototype demonstrated inflation and release of the grip alongside the shaving drive.
UK registration code 6302291
Developed through CAD modelling, circuit prototyping and user feedback.
Proposed product components
1 x CF2000 shaver concept with detachable head
1 x Wireless Charging Dock
1 x Instruction Manual
Colorways
Snow White
Gloss Black
Sea Blue
Design calculations and proposed specifications
Proposed accessories
SmartClick
Beard styler
Nose trimmer
Pouch
Premium pouch
Power
Estimated run time: 90 minutes (design calculation)
Battery Type: Li-Ion
Charging concept: wireless pad
Estimated charge time: about 80 minutes (design calculation)
Design Colours
Snow White
Gloss Black
Sea Blue
Service
Replacement interval: specification to validate
Project status: design and functional prototype
Proposed shaving features
Contour following
Flexible shaving-head concept
DC motor and rotary gearing
Speed-control concept
Comfort-setting concepts
Wet-use design goal
Cleaning
Washability: design requirement
Sketching Ideation
MND is a multifaceted issue with many avenues for exploration. Ideation sketching methods were used to come up with ideas to solve related problems.
Sketching Development
Once shaving and personal care were selected as being the route with the most opportunity for growth via user feedback, further sketching was done to ideate on this specific area.
CAD Simulation
Finite element analysis included static tests (to replicate the action of using the product) and a drop test (to determine whether the product can withstand a fall.) A drop test is also beneficial, given that users with gripping issues have a higher chance of accidentally dropping the product. These simulations serve as a guide to improve:
+ The current model
+ Development of future prototypes
+ Strategise for real-life testing.
Prototyping – Tear Down
The air pump mechanism is analysed to determine the fitting required and electrical components throughout the prototyping stages. The model of the product is iterated to fit the mechanism and balance the shaver's weight, with a focus on comfort.
Prototyping – Handle Design
The handling is developed simultaneously with the physical prototyping process. The initial developments are lo-fi prototypes to dictate the best movement for comfort purposes, while later stages attempt to combine components for feasibility and optimal user experience with balanced load distribution. These prototypes tested multiple features, including:
+ Size
+ Ergonomics
+ Weight
+ Aesthetic
Prototyping – Works Like Prototype
The motor and air pump were attached to the top board with wires running down to connect with the PCB and battery below the bottom plate. When powered on, the pump inflates the balloon to lock the hand, and the motor spins the gears as normal. Watch the video to see a demonstration!
CAD Rendering
CAD rendering was utilised as a visualisation technique to empower our stakeholders to preview and evaluate products even before they are physically manufactured. It acted as a final design for what would be mass-manufactured if the CF2000 were to be taken forward.
