Reimagining an antiquated talking book
I took on this project over 10 years ago, but even by the standards of the day, the library's cassette-based players left a lot to be desired. While many patrons enjoyed borrowing audio books on tape, disabled individuals represented a significant user group for the library's playback machines. The challenge here was to rethink the machine's design to better serve its users' wide range of needs while taking advantage of digital technologies.
Although the existing player had gone without a redesign for decades, it provided insight into basic functionality users would expect.
I began with sketches to explore new forms and control layouts. Interviews with current disabled users underscored the importance of a tactile design, with provisions for motor-impaired users who might operate controls with aids such as mouth sticks.
Marker renderings and foam mockups helped me to more concretely visualize and test designs.
My final design won out because it blended an interesting shape with a number of handy features:
- Integrated handle, with thoughtful placement of internal components for optimal weight distribution
- Spherical speaker that uses an aluminum sphere as a resonator, driven by a small internal exciter. Also serves as a heat sink for the AC adapter housed within, and has the bonus of being spill-proof
- Large, tactile buttons clearly differentiated by color, raised icons, and location
- Retractable power cord that allows easy switching between battery and wall power