research interviews

At Elmar's request, here are two interviews conducted on-site with landscapers.

The idea outlined to each interviewee is:

" the ubiquitous wheelbarrow could be replaced by the tracked mobility platform, providing a load-assisting device and possibly extending functionality further to autonomous load depositing (after one or two 'training' runs to show it where to go)..."

Nick is a member of the old-school, self made crew... Began many years ago with just a shovel and a barrow, he now owns his own business employing up to five subcontractors at any one time.  He is an example of a 'hard-to-convince' type....

The site survey shows the typical easy (i.e flat, not many obstacles) front-yard beginnings of a job, clearing grass and removing dirt:

http://vimeo.com/30838050

Alex is a young sub-contractor, and also understands computers and digital devices well.  His is an interesting and elucidating response to the questions from the up and coming generation.

The site survey shows the other extreme of what the new wheelbarrow device would have top face.... moving a heavy and possibly unstable load up multiple stair cases, avoiding holes, gardens and even the neighbourhood cat!

http://vimeo.com/30840205

Alex brings up the ideas of incorporating other useful worksite items like the stereo and fridge into the device.... actually, the idea of a cold drink always on hand whilst working in the outdoors is a really healthy idea and may even save lives!

Interesting to note, is that Nick called me days after the video was made, (he had lay awake that night thinking of the possibilities) to suggest a really pertinent idea - the incorporation of a 'scissor lift' type device to raise the load to the truck, and make the platform of adjustable height (for holding a mortar-board while laying bricks etc)... By providing an adjustable platform, this caters for ergonomics of the user and provides a relief from the back-breaking work that is landscaping...