Zugnoni's Zen Piano Palace
- Course ID: MECH_ENG 340-2
- Course Title: Computer-Integrated Manufacturing II: CAD/CAM
- Date: January 2022 - March 2022
- URL: Design Report Website
- Skills: Design-Thinking, Wood-Working, Design-Sketching, Team Management
Project: Create a keyboard stand/adjustment that accommodates the height of the user, Dr. Michele Zugnoni.
My team was tasked with creating a comfortable alternative for Dr. Michele Zugnoni's original piano-playing set-up. We aimed to design an individualized piano stand and music stand allowing for maximum ergonomic comfort. Through the consideration of aesthetic components of an at-home product, and the application of wood-working practices, we were able to create Zugnoni's Zen Piano Palace (Z2P2).
Defining the Problem
Dr. Zugnoni's piano-playing set up did not allow her a comfortable playing position, especially when playing for longer periods of time. Her original piano stand, even in its lowest setting, was too high for her to play in the correct posture. She also struggled reading sheet music on her tablet as she did not have a music stand for her keyboard. After initially meeting with our user, observing how they play their keyboard, and gaining initial opinions/feedback, we decided to create a product especially for her that would look nice in their living-space instead of a prototyped adjustable concept.
Design Requirements
As our client was not looking for a new keyboard, any accessory/product we created had to accommodate a full-size Yamaha Keyboard. Other than this requirement, we settled on 5 design needs and considerations: user height, comfort, safety, intuitive adjustability (for the music stand), and aesthetic value.
Design Concept & Rationale
Prioritizing our user, we focused on a table-stand for stability, creating a piano table with a top made of four 2x4 lumber panels, attached with screws for a flat base. Four 2x4 wooden beams serve as the legs, with two triangular side panels to prevent shifting. A back panel prevents the piano from falling backward and provides a mounting surface for the music stand. Designed for durability and user safety, the table aligns with the user's preference for deep wooden colors. A cut-out in the back panel allows for better cable management. Testing determined the ideal height of 23.5" for comfortable play. The attached music stand, made of durable wood with adjustable ridges, securely holds the user's devices and sheet music, offering both functionality and an organized look.
Limitations & Next Steps
While Z2P2, there's potential for further development. Performance testing could explore maximum durability while minimizing product weight, ensuring user safety without compromising portability. Adding features like a bendable music stand and considering alternative materials for increased adjustability could enhance the user experience.
Takeaways: Prioritizing the user and gaining hands-on building experience.
Ultimately, Z2P2 provided Dr. Zugnoni a safe and comfortable piano-playing experience. Constructed from durable, environmentally friendly wooden panels, the table supports her piano at the ideal height and agrees with her aesthetic preferences. I look back fondly on this project as it was one of my first Northwestern design team courses where I learned how to delegate tasks, keep up with meetings and documentation, and become a better team player.