The RestUp travel pillow design project began with identifying a need for enhanced comfort during long journeys. As the founder of the RestUp travel company and the design and manufacturing manager of the project, I worked through the entire innovative, trial-and-error process and collaborated with my team to successfully create a supportive and comfortable travel pillow. Working through every step of the design process has enhanced my ability to communicate effectively with a design team, as I have immersed myself in the various roles involved to bringing our product to market..
Our initial process involved analyzing existing products and gathering feedback from travelers regarding the features they liked and disliked most. This step provided valuable insights, shaping the direction of our design.
With the information gathered, my team and I moved into the brainstorming phase. I created 3D sketches on CAD, experimenting with various shapes, materials, and functionalities. This iterative process allowed for continuous refinement based on constant feedback received from potential customers.
Once the concepts were in place, I developed numerous prototypes. Collaborating with a small team, I constructed several versions of the travel pillow, testing them rigorously for comfort, portability, and ease of use. Each prototype was evaluated and analyzed, leading to adjustments that improved overall design. This step was crucial, as it highlighted the areas needing enhancement, ensuring that I wasn't just creating a product, but one that met user needs effectively.
Through multiple rounds of testing and feedback, I was able to refine the design further. This included modifying the material for better support and adjusting the size and shape for a more universal fit. With each iteration, I documented the changes and responses, which taught me the importance of adaptability in the creative process.
Through the design process, I have successfully created a final product that resonates with our customers. This design not only meets their preferences, but also enhances their comfort during travel. I also grew my CAD skills, worked on material optimization, learned how to sew, and communicated with multiple professionals to educate us in their fields. These included pilots, flight attendants, a chiropractor, an injection molding CEO, a patent attorney, and Naito International Co’s Management Director.
I invite you to explore my team’s PowerPoint presentation we presented for INCubatoredu: RestUp PowerPoint Pitch
For more information on the product and the multiple ways to use it, visit our website: RestUp Travel Website
