SAWM – Futuring Design

Design simplicity

Every detail of EDGE Pro is thoughtfully crafted in an elegant, functional and efficient way. It is the epitome of functionality meeting sophistication, tailored to optimize productivity without compromising on quality or safety.

Reliable
Performance

Ergonomic
Design

Ease of
Manufacturing

OUR PROCESS

DISCOVER
& DEFINE

– USER RESEARCH
– MARKET ANALYSIS
– INSIGHT GENERATION
– TEARDOWN ANALYSIS
– USABILITY ANALYSIS
– EXPERIENCE VISION

ACCELERATE
& SCALE

– PROTOTYPING
– DESIGN ENGINEERING
– PART RELEASE
– VENDOR COORDINATION
– TRIAL RUN SUPPORT

DESIGN
& DETAIL

– VALUE PROPOSITION DESIGN
– INNOVATION ROADMAP
– VISUAL BRAND IDENTITY
– INDUSTRIAL DESIGN
– UI/UX
– CMF DESIGN
– PACKAGING DESIGN
– POINT OF SALE DESIGN

Discover and Define

Research

The Journey of SAWM started with in-depth qualitative research conducted in selected cities in India to understand the product, user, retail environment, and market culture and draw a detailed design brief. Wash cycles with individual users gave us clear insights into the drawbacks of existing machines and the needs of the customers. The market visits helped us understand the dynamics of the selling environment and the buying culture of consumers.

Design and Detail

Analysis

The extensive research was followed by an exhaustive analysis to create a comprehensive design brief. The brief was then categorized into a few focused problem statements which then fueled several creative brainstorming sessions. These topics were also presented in the form of scenarios and situations to provoke a wide range of ideas. At the end of the brainstorming session, we were left with multiple ideas for each problem statement.

Concepts & Mockups

Initially, forms were generated through sketches and mock-ups that consisted of constant tweaking and adjustments to produce accurate visual proportions and required volume. All of the concepts were digitally rendered and presented with 1:1 foam models. This was done for a better understanding of the volume and form. Utmost care was taken that all concepts were manufacturing friendly and visually conveyed a fresh outlook compared to the current offerings.

Cleaning
Convenience
Technology

These were the three guiding principles behind the design of the new Godrej Edge Pro. This Semi Automatic washing machine delivers what we like to call, the "Pro Wash", which doesn't just offer a superior wash, but also makes the entire process of washing clothes, that much easier.

WASH TRAY
CABLE WINDER
SPIN SHOWER
DETERGENT STORAGE
AQUAJET PULSATOR

Wash Station Approach

Washing

Water

Rinsing

Wash Tray

The multi-utility wash tray helps you scrub and rinse your clothes conveniently so no more bending. The ribs on the wash tray help you wipe off tough stains that require extra treatment. The tray also makes it convenient for you to carry dried clothes.

Research Findings

People often have a problem with lid storage. Sometimes people wash stain marks before placing the clothes into the machine.

Cable Winder

Now no need to leave your machine power cable hanging, wrap it around the cable winder and reduce its wear & tear.

Research Findings

Current solutions require users to bend and strain their bodies to secure the power cord, they are often left hanging where they are easier to access.

Space for more

Carefully thought out storage spaces helps you store detergent, soap, and brushes right where they belong; with your washing machine. So now there is no need to clutter the bathroom rack with space-consuming detergent container-fluids.

Research Findings

Small spaces quickly become cluttered without designated storage areas.

Spin Shower

The unique design of the Edge Pro’s spin tub ensures that your clothes get a uniform rinse with its rain shower water delivery giving you detergent-free clothes.

Research Findings

Rinse water is typically concentrated at the edge of the basket while distribution to the soapy clothing is poor.

Unmatched Performance

Aquajet Pulsator

The large surface area of the aquajet pulsator helps in generating higher turbulence ensuring a better wash quality. A uniquely effective design, the aquajet pulsator is at the heart of several Godrej washing machines.

Intuitive Interfaces

The Pull-up drain tab and Water selector slide were developed with ultimate convenience and intuitive operation in mind. Their central location on the machine along with clear status ensures immediate visual feedback making operating the machine a breeze.

Research Findings

Users often leave the drain function on, since it blends with other knobs and dials and isn't immediately noticeable.

Mobility

Adding wheels allowed Edge Pro to maneuver ledges, carpets, and several floor types with ease. This not only makes moving the machine convenient, but it also prevents any potential damage to the machine and discomfort to the user.

Research Findings

Users often move the machine around the house to maximise their space. This could potentially lead to machine damage and user injury.

Service Made Easy

Special attention was paid to ensure ease of access for after-sales servicing and maintenance. The Edge Pro SAWM design allowed for a hassle-free servicing experience for both the user and technician. Simply remove the back panel to gain immediate access to the inside. Making the machine easier to service on-site resulted in a better ownership experience, improved reliability, and in turn an extended product lifespan.

Research Findings

Semi-automatic washing machines are usually tedious to service since their internal components are difficult to access. To service or repair them, technicians are required to take them apart in their workshops leading to increased downtime and the user feeling less assured of a job well done.

Rotating Outlet Pipe

We designed the outlet pipe with flexibility in mind. The rotating outlet allows users to place the machine wherever they desire without worrying about damaging the pipe.

Research Findings

The machine's position is often limited by the position of the outlet pipe.

Accelerate and Scale

Prototype

Futuring and Godrej together selected a concept that had an excellent balance of functionality and aesthetics all while suiting the market needs. This prototyping was done with the help of the in-house workshop team. It is imperative to choose the perfect materials and processes beforehand. This allows us to mimic the final material with the highest fidelity once finished. CAD data for the prototype was prepared while keeping in mind the processes by which each part would be manufactured and assembled.

Design for manufacturing and assembly

While adding strength to the structure our engineers took care that the different complexly shaped plastic components fit seamlessly during assembly. This was important for achieving a premium outlook in the final product as proposed.

A complete task analysis of the assembly process was imagined which allowed us to address issues and simplify them, making the assembly more efficient. During this process, special attention was given to ease access for after-sales servicing. The Edge Pro SAWM design allowed a hassle-free servicing experience for a technician.