Exploration Of Older Product Design Based On Modernization

As one of the most common products for the old, walking sticks can be designed based on the theory of modular design. This is a systematic design method, with which the walking sticks can be separated into several parts. Users can make a stick with different functions by assembling the modular parts. With this design, elder people’s various needs in walking can be fulfilled by one sticks. The modular design method can also make a full use of the resource,which is good for the sustainable development. Meanwhile, the design method can be an enlightenment for the enterprise and designers, which could resolve the contradiction between standardized production and personalized needs.Modular design is based on the analysis of the products with different functions or products with the same function but different performance or specifications. Then a series of modular parts can be made. By assembling different parts, a product can be provided with multiple functions. Thus it is possible to fulfill different market needs. Therefore, the modular design method is a vital methodology which flexibly adapts to the modern mass production and information society.Based on investigation, we can see that the design of traditional walking sticks has certain limits. For one thing, the sticks which is made of wood is against to the concept of green and environmental protection. Because the material comes from logs and even precious wood. For another, with the development of economy and culture of our country, the demand of people also become diverse. A stick with single function is not so good to satisfy people’s ever-growing needs.This article is aimed to analyze the utilization of modular design method in older product design. Through study of traditional walking stick, understand its historical development and practical function in daily life. As a branch of walking stick, the elder stick is mainly designed for elder people, especially for those with degradation in legs. The classification of walking stick was then made to recognize the essence of the elder stick. Based on the principles of parts combination, aesthetic and green design, the design of multi-functional older walking stick was proposed. The feasibility of modular design method in older walking stick design was then discussed.