SUMO
Project / Pencil Sharpener
Commission / 2013
Client / designed for YOW!design to urban prefer
Award / Good Design 2014
Sumo is an pencil sharpener with automatic pencil-feeding function, the operation is much safer than standard sharpeners because it solves the problems of fingers getting clamped.It was started from universal design purpose, providing triangular shape for fitting all sizes of hands.The triangular design not only fit palms well, it also reduces pressing efforts when operating sharpener.
I initially discussed user behavior patterns and using scenarios of pencil sharpener to explore common problems, and make sure Sumo is designed with best user experience and higher safety. I try to redesign normal pencil sharpener because we believe that there's something can be improved from its operation and function.
Consider various hand sizes come from different ethnics and age, I set universal design as starting point to make different hands sizes all perfectly fit the pencil sharpener with the triangle body. The press strength will be released from the top to bottom, equipped with wide base and silicone anti-slip pad, it's very stable and not so easy as normal pencil sharpeners to be knocked over. Besides, compared with common structure, the redesigned crumb drawer and handle are both placed on back, so the drawer will be locked by handle and provide simple protection that pencil crumbs won't be scattered out, As above, Sumo solves the common problems of unstable operation and scattered pencil crumbs caused by traditional structure.
The product applies automatic pencil-feeding structure, not only for safe operation, but also reduce 30% assembled parts. Just insert pencil into sharpener, rotate clockwise to feed the pencil, and counter-clockwise to eject pencil, that can resolve the concern of getting hurt by traditional pull apart structure.
