Human Centered Design: Prototype Proposal
CLEARCASE™
ClearCase provides a simple solution to a problem many of us face: foggy glasses. Not only does it keep your glasses shiny and smudge-free, it also ensures an extra layer of protection for your lenses. ClearCase is an eyeglasses case that has a polishing cloth built right in. It features a foam insert with an airtight pocket for the glasses to slide into that cleans lenses upon removal while also preventing the collection of dust or dirt. The foam insert is wrapped in a layer of microfiber cloth material for a guaranteed polish every time. To use, insert eyeglasses into the area indicated in the case, and upon removal, the lenses will be wiped clean with no extra effort. For best results, spray lenses with glasses cleaner prior to storage. Remember to remove glasses by the bridge in order to avoid potential breakage. ClearCase keeps your glasses protected, smudge-free, and ready for use without the hassle of manual cleaning.
This prototype is featured with a cotton exterior but could also exist in a variety of other materials such as leather, suede, plastic, velvet, linen, etc. The interior of the case is lined in microfiber cloth, as well as covering the entire foam insert (both inside and out). Microfiber is the best choice for this because of its ability to avoid smudging, remove dirt or dust, and leave the lens clean. Other materials tend to leave behind lint or fluff onto the lenses. The foam insert is made of moisture resistant foam in order to maintain cleanliness if the user decides to use a cleaning spray. ClearCase will look and function the same as a normal eyeglasses case from the exterior but will have an interior that allows glasses to be inserted vertically into a foam protection unit. I wanted to keep this prototype simple, clean, and sturdy in its aesthetic in order to reflect its function: cleaning and protection. I thought the exterior color (light blue) would indicate a feeling of brightness, clarity, and cleanliness, which are all factors that are associated with clean glasses.
The research for this project was fairly simple, as the concept in itself allowed me to utilize resources that already exist. All of the materials used in this project are readily available to the public. Much of the development for this prototype stemmed from conversations with friends and family voicing their concerns, wants, and necessities for the product. From this, I was able to take each idea into consideration and try to come up with the best possible solution. For example, one friend complained of a user error that bugged her: when she absentmindedly grabbed her glasses from its case while driving or reading, she would almost always get fingerprints on the lenses. Another friend said that his glasses always come out of its case dusty, regardless of how long it’s been sitting in there. Addressing these issues was at the focal point of my research for the project.
