Downselection

Downselection Matrix

The concepts were then each scored based off of the criteria demonstrated above. The criteria being scored included areas of concern like sound attenuation, comfortability, and aesthetics. These of these design features were then given a weight.

The highest weighted concepts were sound attenuation (our primary goal), breathability, and comfortability (our market opportunity). The lowest weighted concepts were prototyping budget (the product will easily be within our budget), ease of cleanliness, and durability (doesn't experience blunt stress). However, by the end of the downselection process, the most all-rounded concept won, and features that weren't initially relevant ended up shining more (ex. ease of cleanliness).

The 5 concepts were then placed in the matrix and individually rated from 1-5 for each criteria. A total score was determined for each concept by summing the criteria ratings after being multiplied by the weighted score. As shown above, the Concept 3, the ellipsoid booth, rated the worst among the concepts with a score of 3.03. Yet, concept 4, the self contained absorbing mask, scored the highest with a total score of 3.74.

Some of the other concepts which may have been technically better for sound attenuation, had very low points for other criteria. For example, Concept 1 included active noise-cancellation technology, which we discovered after some short research was much beyond the scope of our class. Even before the down-selection matrix rated it lower, we had passively eliminated the concept due to feasibility issues.

Selected Concept

Based on the scoring matrix results and analysis of the top concepts, we decided Whispr will be able to achieve our goals through concept 4. We chose this concept because it allows the greatest level of sound attenuation, while still maintaining the comfortability, breathability, and audio playback capabilities we believe are essential for this device's success.

Due to this concept's dual shell design, a user will be able to practice comfortably without compromising their breathing. Furthermore, it also allows the user to have access to audio processing through an external software due to the integrated microphone and headphone connectivity. This design will also achieve our goal of having a sleek and aesthetically pleasing device, further increasing the user's comfortability and confidence within themselves.

With this being said, we will still need to spend time discussing features within this concept. In order to maintain comfortability, the attachment method must be explored in order to limit the amount of pressure being placed on the user's ears or head. The technology must also be explored and how it can be integrated into the device without it making direct contact with the user's skin, or by adding excessive weight to the overall device. By taking these ideas into consideration, alongside sufficient resources and effort, Whispr can be developed into the ideal product singers around the world have been asking for.

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