meeting with construction expert, brief brief

CONSTRUCTION: JOHN VENAFRO, VENAFROJ@philau.edu, office hours: monday 10-6 & wednesday 11-5:30

-ultrasonic seams, provide waterproof stitch, can be expensive due to factory ability and secondary processes (adhesive,seam tape)

-zippers are most often sewn and bound : gives clean inside seam,durability,prevents catching on other fabric

-zipper shape important when developing easy to access pockets – look at EMS bags

-box stitch used to join parts that get a lot of use / stress
(straps,handles) - also use bar tap pin or rivet to join

-shaped strap adds comfort and cost (curve helps stay on shoulder)
-handles usually "tubing wrapped in foam tape topstitched or topstiched w.foam insert and box stitch connection)

-the way patterns sewn together can provide structure, need a post machine (not at school)

-fabric utilization vs labor of seams , usually smaller pieces better because it allows for more pieces to fit maximizing use of material(use existing patterns mark in dead space to fill, really usefull in large scale productions)
-usually in china/asia cost of labor is cheaper than cost of material, so cheaper to make a larger piece two smaller pieces with extra stiches

- rolling luggage pulls II II not II, prevents bags from swinging around front

-General Steps of process
1.design bag through sketches/concepts
2.mach up a sample (canvas muslin ect)
3. layout patterns from mach ups, marker in different color according to material (outer shell,mesh, ect)
4. alter patterns to maximize use of fabric, thinking of dead space/large scale production
*****identify small parts like pockets with multiple processes (zipper,piping,embroidery) assemble them first then assemble the bag****

components, features, & areas of interest:
-color indicators for use (ex. Red zipper on laptop comp)
-more pockets & accessible
-telescoping / accordian pockets
-a bag for bags
-reflective materials
-key chain pull out (ex lighter leash)
-zip in / zip off compartments
-luggage stowage width & height
-strap adjustments
-look at garments/garment design
-type of thread increase strength
-hiking back packs
-columbia,burton
-closures (mag toggle snap clip zipper)
-pull cord covers
-stuff falling out when opened
-materials to optimize usage


BRIEFLY BRIEF ABOUT BRIEF

1.use marketing analysis tools to find niche in market, aide in selection of materials, determine price
-consumer behavior,SWOT, 5 p’s, PEST, CEG
2.Keep Good Traits
-durability,ruggedness,versatility
3.Change/Propose new solutions/ new opportunities
-cut down bulk,minimal option,womens design,add increased functionality, comparative analysis
4.Provide travel friendly options
-quick access PC /luggage attach /wheels
5.Investigate User Interaction
-7,14,28 ,observations, surveys
6.Make more ergonomic
-strap design, how naturally held, ask mike/research
7.Utilize expert consultants
-have specific examples/questions