Problem Statement
Tufting gun is a tool that is primarily used to automate the tufting process, more specifically in the realm of rug making.
Our client realized that rug making or tufting is a hobby which garners over 2.5 billion views on TikTok, so there is a strong potential to tap into this market. Interestingly, upon research, the client found out that users of the existing tufting guns found it unsafe as all the moving parts are exposed, hard to interact with and do maintenance, too expensive, pretty heavy, and appears too industrial for the main demographic of users aged 18 to 35.
​
The client believed there was a gap in the market and saw potential in building a tufting gun which would be visually appealing to the user demographic, be safe to operate, easy to interact and maintain, lightweight and low cost. We built the 'EZ Tufting' for our client to bring successful impact to the rug making industry.
Human Factors Evaluation
This tufting gun features enclosed moving parts for user safety, universally designed handles based on diverse anthropometric data, and a balanced motor placement to reduce strain.
Design Exploration
The form is improved at each stage of design iteration for the ease of use and functional optimization.
Prototype and Testing
​
The design concept underwent thorough testing to ensure it met ergonomic standards for user comfort and functional refinement to optimize its performance.
Design for Interaction
The translucent plastic body offers a captivating visual of the moving internal parts, enhancing user engagement and facilitating easy identification of malfunctions.
Design for Assembly
Each part is made from a single material and joined such that it is accessible, reversible, and robust. It considers the future need to disassemble the product for repair, maintenance or recycle.
Design for Manufacturing
Every component is designed considering the principles of DFM for optimization of the engineering process, efficient assembly, the standardisation of materials and components, reducing the number of parts, and minimising the amount of manufacturing operations required on parts during assembly.
With EZ Tufting, we aimed not only to meet our client's expectations but also to bring about a positive impact on the rug-making industry.
Our innovative design addresses safety concerns, enhances user experience, and aligns with sustainable practices, making it a game-changer in the world of tufting guns.
We are excited to see how EZ Tufting transforms the hobby of rug making and opens up new possibilities for creativity and enjoyment among its users.