COLEMAN HEATER
The main focus of this project was the analysis and distillation of Coleman's brand identity, then the application of that defined aesthetic language. This involved looking at the brand from several different angles, including analyzing past products and researching the brand's history.
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Through the brand analysis, 3 main styles were classified. This heater attempts to match the visual identity of the classic Coleman products such as its lantern or camp stove.
2 Month
Duration
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Solidworks
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Keyshot
2rd Yr.
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Group Research
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Solo Product Development
After doing a full brand analysis into their values and history, I picked out a few design elements that encapsulated classic Coleman. Those being the sheet metal construction, which can be seen clearly on the stove, and the use of the reflective metal bars like on the lantern or stovetop. The goal was to match Coleman's rugged, almost utilitarian style.
Making this as usable as possible, I added adjustable legs to easily angle airflow, they also tuck back into the body to reduce its footprint. When camping packing space is a premium.
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There is a handle on the side that pulls out for easy carrying. Along with that, on the back there are simple controls to match Colemans' simple nature, where they take a focus on durability and function over visual detailing and complexity.
Some examples of iconic Coleman products. These products and others served as vital points of reference when determining what attributes are relevant to the company's design language. Using this reference was necessary for defining both structural trends and the typical positioning of Coleman products.
PROCESS
Sketching was the main method for development. Pictured left are a few of the exploratory sketches for this project.
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Along with sketching, low-density foam proved to be a great tool for quickly blocking out forms. A model carved out of high-density foam was also made, this was particularly beneficial in evaluating the ergonomics and touch-points.
