Abstract

To identify a design opportunity, this dissertation explores the history and trends in the development of the electric guitar. The design intervention derives from the hassle and risks of flying on planes with guitars, as they can be easily damaged in transit, but if stored with you on the plane, damage is minimised. This project aims to find a solution for the average musician on an average income who flies economy class.

It explores the introduction of the travel guitar, a smaller version of the electric guitar, to make travel easier. Through the evaluation of this instrument’s function and feel, the possible design interventions were identified. To retain the feel of a full-sized guitar was essential, as was the ability to store it in an overhead locker when travelling on an aircraft. The ease of how the instrument was manipulated between modes was another key element to consider.

The final design utilises a number of analogue mechanisms to manage and manipulate the guitar’s elements, so that when in playing mode, it has the look and feel of a standard instrument, but when travelling, it takes up no greater space than standard cabin luggage.

Design Intent

This project delivers a well-crafted instrument that has all the same capabilities as a full-size electric guitar and performs just as well. It is also easy to travel with and removes the hassle of oversized luggage and anxiety over damaged instruments. The redesigned travel guitar utilises similar design cues as a full-sized guitar to connect with the user in an emotional, sensual and passionate way. The design question was: is it possible to design a full size guitar so that it can adapt and be compact for travel? Particular focus was given to the electronics, the tuning and the string tension.

When travelling by air, there are particular problems which may affect travellers in different ways. Whether it be delays in a flight, extra baggage fees, the long lines at security or a baby crying the whole time on a 15-hour flight, there are many factors that can cause a bad flying experience. A musician knows that the main inconvenience of air travel is the difficulty of travelling with an oversized and odd-shaped instrument, which means extra baggage fees and the possibility of a broken item at the other end of the flight. A guitarist wants a few things out of the guitar that they use. First, it must look good. Nobody wants to go out on stage looking like they are shredding on a broomstick. Second, it has to feel right; the right shape and the feel of the material have to make it comfortable and easy to play. And third, it has to sound great. You pay for quality and you expect the work put into the electronic components and the pick ups to be the best you can afford.

Bio

I am a creative and innovative young designer witha passion for prototyping, 3D CAD modelling and showcasing my knowledge in 3D Printing. As a graduate from the University of Technology with a Bachelor of Integrated Product Design, I have been studying design for over six years, but designing things for as long as I can remember. For over ten years I have also been studying music and playing multiple instruments, in particular the guitar. As with design, where I get to design, sketch and create my own ideas, music allows me to write, create and perform music through live shows and music recordings. These two passions in my life have led me to develop a new style of travel guitar in response to the struggle of travelling with an instrument. Extensive knowledge about the workings and importance of guitar mechanics and the design background enabled me to completely redesign the instrument, opening new possibilities for the way we travel with guitars and perform.

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