Xxtracter - Post Removal Tool

Client: 

Kevin Lee, Xxtracter

Designer:

Shaun MacKintosh – FS Design, Sunderland

Description of concept

Kevin Lee identified the need for a quick and efficient way of removing and replacing broken parking bollards. The bollards are made from recycled plastic and can be seen separating the pedestrian walkways from individual car parking spaces in typical public car parks. With several hundred bollards in some of the larger out of town store car parks, it is not unusually for bollards to be replaced on a daily basis, so a quick and efficient way of replacement would make good business sense.

Target Market

Being aware of the demands of car park upkeep and the number and frequency of repairs undertaken, Kevin was aware that there was a nationwide demand for the product.

How design would make a different

Kevin had developed a simple but functional prototype that could remove bollards, whilst at the same time minimise groundwork for their re implantation, however, he needed to ensure the product worked efficiently and could be manufactured at a reasonable cost.

Design Process Timescales

Solution

Design Netwrok North provided guidance and funding to help the project move to the next level. Kevin Lee chose to work with FS Design to develop his product to a fully functioning prototype ready for production.

Kevin Lee,  Xxtracter comments: "Working with FS Design has enabled us to create an Xxtracter that is quicker to operate and much more durable than originally envisaged – it is now ready to go to market."

Project success

Xxtracter is currently in talks with a national facilities management company.