Keys!
A standard door key allows use of a lock to open a door. It has a simple but important function that is based on its good design.
Material
Door keys are typically made of steel which can be cut precisely with machinery – an important factor in the use of the key. The lock and key work hand in hand, so the right key needs to go into the right lock for the mechanism to work. This also means that the key must be cut precisely to ensure it works in the lock. The use of steel or similar metals is also important for the key’s durability. Keys need to withstand forces such as twisting to avoid bending or snapping, friction to prevent premature wear and tear, and impact as it’s a portable object that may be dropped or hit against other objects, without chipping or cracking.
Shape
The shape of a blade of a key is very much dictated by the lock that the key is intended for. However, there are varying shapes of the head of the key, from circular to hexagonal or a completely custom shape. The head of the key not only gives the user something to grip while using the key, but the different shapes can also help users to differentiate between multiple keys. A key head also typically has a hole that allows you to attach the key to a keyring.
Size
The key is made to fit an average hand, so people can easily use the key without it being too big and awkward to handle with or too small and fiddly – they are made so that they are easy to grip between two fingers. Along with the material choice, the size of the key means that it is lightweight and compact, therefore easily portable and easy to store in a bag or a pocket.
My favourite mug!
I find it kind of funny that every time I go to make a cup of tea at home, I look for a specific mug. So why this mug?
The design of this mug doesn’t deviate from the traditional mug shapes – it tapers to the bottom and resembles a cone. It’s simple but it works! The shape finds the balance between ensuring stability, so the mug does not fall or tip over easily, even when full. The tapered shape also allows for a comfortable hold. The handle is large enough to fit 2 or 3 fingers and for the mug to be stable enough to carry with one hand. The opening is wide enough to allow a person to comfortably sip out of the mug without hitting their nose against the opposite rim for example – because no one wants a burnt nose.
It is made from a ceramic material which helps to keep the hot drink hot for longer with its good insulating properties. The material is durable enough for handwashing, being put in the dishwasher and withstanding knocks and bumps. The mug also has 3 finishes – a ridged finish on the outside body, a smooth finish on the inside and a slightly textured finish on the handle. The ridged finish makes the mug easy to grip, particularly if your hands or the mug are wet. They also help to provide a more comfortable hold as they reduce the amount of heat your hand would be exposed it compared to a smooth surface. The mug also has a matte finish, which again makes it easier to hold. The smooth interior of the mug allows for liquid to easily be emptied out of the cup and therefore it can be easily cleaned – no liquids stuck in any little crevices.
At the end of the day, it’s just a mug. But I never think twice about holding the body of the mug and wondering if I will burn my hands. I am yet to tip over and waste a lovely cup of tea (I will confess, I am pretty clumsy, so it is only a matter of time).
BIC Cristal Pens
As far as pens go, you can always rely on a trusty old pic pen. The multi colour pens, retractable pens and even erasable pens are all great, but the standard BIC pen is wonderfully designed and needs no improvement.
The hexagonal shape of the pen prevents the pen from rolling off flat surfaces and also helps to provide more grip when writing. The pen itself is made of a transparent strong plastic material. It is lightweight and sturdy, and the plastic is strong enough for everyday normal usage without breaking. While not indestructible, the pen has no issue being thrown in the bottom of a bag. The transparent material also means that you can see the how much ink is left in the pen (perfect, because there’s nothing more annoying than a pen that does not work because you’ve run out of ink and you did not have a clue!).
The cap indicates what colour your pen is. No worries if you lose it, the base of the pen also indicates the colour of the pen. More importantly, the cap prevents your pen from drying out, accidentally writing on something or from damaging the ballpoint end. It also has a handy little clip so you can hang your pen on a pocket, some paper or a notebook. One last and important feature is the hole at the top which is a safety aspect. In the case of a cap being swallowed, it allows for airflow and helps to reduce to risk of choking.
There is no complexity to the design – it’s simple and does what it’s supposed to do. Every design aspect has a reason and makes for a better experience when using the pen.
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