Westcott TrimAir Paper Trimmer
PRODUCT DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT
Situation:
Product Ventures was tasked with designing the Westcott TrimAir Rotary Paper Trimmer, a 12-inch paper trimmer. The objective was to create a sleek, contemporary, and professional-looking trimmer that aligns with the elevated quality of the Westcott’s product portfolio.
Challenge:
The challenge was to design a paper trimmer that not only met functional requirements but also had an innovative and stylish aesthetic. The design needed to incorporate a metal bridge with plastic supports/end caps and align with the aesthetic direction set by the iPoint Curve and iPoint 2 sharpening products. Additionally, the trimmer design needed to offer an unobstructed view of the cutting path and give the perception of a smoother, straighter cutting path.
Approach:
Product Ventures began the design process by conducting in-depth research into the target market and user preferences. We identified key design elements such as the elliptical detail used across the Westcott portfolio, the arching side details were inspired by the curves of iPoint-2, as well as the circular detail featured in other Westcott products.
Based on consumer research findings, the design team generated several initial concepts for the trimmer, incorporating hand sketches with a splash of color. These concepts addressed both the trimmer base shape and the blade carriage handle, assuming the use of a cartridge-based blade assembly. The Westcott team reviewed the concepts and provided feedback, leading to the selection of three concepts for further refinement. The designs were sleek, contemporary, and professional-looking, aligning with the overall objectives of the project.
Result:
The Westcott TrimAir Rotary Paper Trimmer achieved its objectives and received recognition for its innovation and style. The final design of the trimmer received the Good Design Award in the household products category, selected by a jury of experts from the Chicago Athenaeum, Museum of Architecture and Design. The design featured a low-profile, sleek, and modern aesthetic, reflecting its state-of-the-art performance. The use of titanium bonded blades, 10 times harder than stainless steel, set a new standard for trimmers and office supplies alike. Its unique dual bar gliding system gave the perception of a smoother, straighter cutting path, while the elevated and tapering platform created a slim design reminiscent of the MacBook Air.
Product Ventures successfully designed the Westcott TrimAir Rotary Paper Trimmer, a high-quality, functional, and visually appealing office tool. The collaboration with Westcott resulted in an award-winning product that not only met the specified objectives but also exceeded user expectations in terms of both design and performance.
Want to hear more specifics about our process for this project?