Electric Peeler Redesign

Redesign challenge: an unbranded electric peeler deconstructed and reimagined, with a focus on DfM, DfA and brand identity.

The Original

This cheap, poorly-constructed electric peeler is the kitchen gadget that no-one asked for. Fruit and vegetables are clamped into a minimalist vertical lathe, and spun against a cutting tool, producing a long, singular piece of peel and the tinny whining sound of a dying kids-toy. It screams gimmick – perhaps unfairly, considering the effectiveness of its cutting mechanism.

The Redesign

The peeler was redesigned in the style of iconic homeware manufacturer, OXO. Their core design principles: robustness, cleanliness, and universal usability, were reflected in the both the aesthetic and the features/functionality of the product, with Design for Manufacture and Design for Assembly also at the heart of considerations.

Head to Head

The redesign reduces component count by 40% and estimated assembly time by 60%. The new product looks at home in OXO's iconic range, and on top of the cost-savings, would retail at a higher price.

Assembly Drawing

A complete exploded drawing of the redesigned assembly, including parts list with materials and manufacturing processes.