A solar power pack designed for use in outdoor scenarios by Shawllar
Client: Nanjing Small Blue Clean Energy Technology Co., Ltd.
Established in 2018, Small Blue Technology is a service platform focused on smart energy and distributed intelligent photovoltaic systems. The company is dedicated to its mission of "providing electricity to the world, anytime, anywhere."
Project Background:
In 2022, Small Blue Technology collaborated with LKK Design to create the "Power Adventurer" series portable photovoltaic pack. The goal was to move beyond purely functional design and develop a sustainable solar charger that would resonate with the aesthetics and lifestyles of modern outdoor enthusiasts. The Shawllar Solar power pack design needed to be a fusion of high performance, portability, and fashion.
The project objectives for the Shawllar Solar power pack were clear and challenging:
Ultimate Portability: The product had to be lightweight (under 3kg) and feature a folding design for compact storage and easy carrying.
High-Efficiency Conversion: Utilize high-conversion rate mono-crystalline silicon chips (23.8%) to maximize energy generation.
Environmental Adaptability: Include an adjustable bracket to optimize the angle towards the sun, independently improving conversion efficiency.
Durability & Multi-Scene Use: The design must be robust, water-resistant, and suitable for various scenarios like camping, picnics, and road trips.
Disruptive Aesthetic: Break the stereotype of traditional photovoltaic bags by creating a fashionable and trendy outdoor gear item.
LKK Design employed a comprehensive, user-driven design process to meet these objectives.
1. Design Research
Our team began with deep user insight into the target audience: young, style-conscious outdoor lovers. Market research revealed that users sought not just functionality but also an emotional connection and a product that reflected their identity. This guided our strategy to position the Shawllar Solar power pack as a trendy lifestyle accessory, not just a tool.
2. Industrial Design
Based on our research, we developed three distinct design themes to cater to diverse user preferences:
Denim Style: Inspired by the adventurous spirit of the Western cowboy. It features a durable denim fabric integrated with a waterproof design, a comfortable leather handle, and a genuine leather storage bag, enhancing both texture and protection.
Sport Style: Employs bold color contrasts and wild zebra prints for a natural, energetic look. The body uses fully waterproof fabric with hidden zippers and flap closures for superior protection. Reflective materials mixed with canvas add safety and texture.
Fashion Style: Features a sporty bag handle webbing in a bright sky-blue color, perfect for outdoor tech and style. The partitioned pocket design offers organized storage, and the branded SHAWLLAR webbing adds a unique identity.
3. Mechanical Structure Design
The structural design focused on balancing portability with functionality:
Folding Mechanism: We engineered a precise folding hinge system that allows the pack to collapse to an ultra-slim size of 54.5cm * 39cm * 2cm.
Adjustable Stand System: A stable triangular support structure was designed for reliability on various terrains. The easy-to-use angle adjustment mechanism allows users to maximize solar energy capture effortlessly.
4. Prototyping and Testing
We built and tested multiple prototypes to validate our Shawllar Solar power pack design.
Performance Testing: Prototypes were tested in simulated and real-world conditions to verify charging efficiency, durability, and thermal performance.
Reliability Testing: The folding mechanism underwent thousands of cycle tests for long-term reliability. All fabrics were tested for abrasion, tear resistance, and waterproofing.
User Experience (UX) Testing: Potential users provided feedback on grip, weight, storage convenience, and stand adjustment, leading to further design refinements.
The collaboration between LKK Design and Small Blue Technology delivered significant value across multiple dimensions:
Commercial Value: The three distinct styles allowed Small Blue Technology to capture broader market segments, differentiating the Shawllar brand in a competitive space and establishing a strong product identity.
User Value: The final product offers a reliable, enjoyable, and stylish outdoor power solution, perfectly aligning with the user's desire for efficient and fashionable gear.
Industry Value: This project successfully demonstrated that excellent design can inject emotion and style into green technology, pioneering the crossover of "PV + Fashion" and setting a new benchmark for the industry.
LKK Design was proud to partner with an innovator like Small Blue Technology. Through our comprehensive design approach, we empowered their technology, enabling sustainable energy to become a seamless and stylish part of every outdoor adventure.
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