In response to the project brief set out by our course tutor I will be developing a prototype USB Memory Stick, the venture I have chosen to develop will be:
* a promotional 'freebie' used to publicise the launch of a new cloud based android or iphone app.
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Research & The Background
What is cloud ????
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing as a service rather than a product, whereby shared resources, software, and information are provided to computers and other devices as a utility (like the electricity grid) over a network (typically the Internet).
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Research & The Background
What is cloud ????
Cloud computing is the delivery of computing as a service rather than a product, whereby shared resources, software, and information are provided to computers and other devices as a utility (like the electricity grid) over a network (typically the Internet).
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cloud_computing
Existing Cloud Services
icloud is possibly the most commercially known cloud service, however it carries the stigma that it is limited to iphone and Apple iOS X. The reality is that it is available cross platform if the required specifications are met.
Existing Cloud Services
icloud is possibly the most commercially known cloud service, however it carries the stigma that it is limited to iphone and Apple iOS X. The reality is that it is available cross platform if the required specifications are met.
Despite this iCloud does seem to be mainly used by Apple iOS users.
DROPBOX
Dropbox is a highly popular cross platform service which utilises cloud storage to allow users to store and share files and folders with others across the Internet.
Dropbox is a highly popular cross platform service which utilises cloud storage to allow users to store and share files and folders with others across the Internet.
Dropbox offers to a large number of users across a variety of desktop and mobile operating systems, there are a number of versions available for Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux, as well as versions for mobile devices, such as Android, Windows Phone 7, iPhone, and BlackBerry.
ANDROID
When it comes to Android, things are a little different to the likes of iCloud and Apple iOS as there seems to be no real front runner when it comes to a cloud service specifically aimed at Android.
Android is an operating system for mobile devices developed by the Open Handset Alliance led by Google, a consortium of software, and telecommunication companies.
Android has a large number of developers writing apps that can be downloaded from third-party sites or through online stores such as 'Android Market' run by Google.
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Existing Products
Existing Products
The first stage in developing my product was to research products already available on the market. Although my product is to be of a creative design it must also be a practical and functionall product that will fit into the existing market and appeal to consumers.
The correct design will be crucial to the success of this product, and although it is going to be a 'freebie', it must still be appealing to consumers as well as promoting the new cloud service.
Below shows some sample USB Memory Sticks available with a range of designs including promotional, novelty, and standard everyday use.
These have a range of forms and functions, especially in relation to the caps (if applicable).
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Market Standard & Important Features of a USB Stick
Market Standard & Important Features of a USB Stick
Above shows the given dimensions of the USB Circuit that will be used for this project (this can be shortened to create a smaller USB stick if required).
Whatever the final design is, it will be governed by, and designed to house this circuit.
By researching and evaluating the existing products on the market I have identified several features that are common and important aspects of a USB stick assembly.
By researching and evaluating the existing products on the market I have identified several features that are common and important aspects of a USB stick assembly.
Important features and factors to consider during the design process:
- Small and portable device (usually able to fit in a pocket or small bag)
- Means of attachment - to an item such as a keyring or lanyard
- Clearance between chassis and enclosure (ensuring full, unrestricted insertion into a computer)
- Means of protection of the chassis (a cap or removable enclosure or some kind)
- Adequate protection of the circuit board
- Housing designed to secure the circuit board in place and sufficient to allow repeated use of the memory stick without becoming unsecured or weak over time
- Made from a non-conductive material (to ensure circuit board is not subject to shorting issues)
- Hard wearing and light weight material used (this will ensure the product remains light weight and portable but provides adequate protection of the delicate electronic components
- Material used allows for design detail and high quality finishing
- Ergonomics should be considered, however as this is not really a hand held device, more consideration should be given to its functionality and fitment to computer equipment
- Well designed product that will attract consumers
My product needs to be of an interesting design that serves the promotional purpose it is intended but still functional and practical for use as a USB drive, with special consideration given to being able to mount the product into a computers USB port.
Above: USB Ports on a typical Laptop and Base Unit, this gives an idea of the restrictions of space that can impact the design of USB devices due to the limitation of space.
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