Step without Legs
Definition of the Step without Legs Prototype
IKEA furniture has become a standard in kitchen interior design. The step without legs is an independent module that can be integrated into this type of furniture, allowing individuals to manage items in overhead cabinets that are hard to reach.
Given the characteristics of this type of furniture and its geometries, the goal of the prototype was:
Design a modular and durable ladder system that, when folded and unfolded, could be stored in the space of a commercial drawer, similar to those from IKEA.
Manufacture an ergonomic prototype so that the deployment of the step without legs could be done in a single step.
Challenges in Designing Innovative Furniture
The design of any innovative product involves challenges at the design level to achieve its functions in a way that is comfortable for users. In the specific case of furniture design, there are other obstacles or limitations that influence development. These additional challenges include:
Compliance with regulations. The step drawer without legs is essentially a ladder, and therefore, it is subject to safety regulations that include significant restrictions.
Ergonomics: The furniture design must adhere to ergonomic principles, as these are common-use products. If their use is too complex, they face significant rejection from users.
Strength: The mechanical engineering behind a piece of furniture like the step without legs is a critical aspect of the product development. It is essential to design by referencing information from advanced systems that allow the study of the product's strength in different usage scenarios.
