Product Description and Principal Function(s)
The WAGTAIL COMBI was first designed as a superior window cleaning tool. After three years of research and development the designers have developed a multi-functional cleaning tool that is fast, easy to use and to reduce strain in shoulders and arms. The Combi incorporates interchangeable cleaning pads (micro-fibre for dust, acrylic for windows and cotton for floors) that clean and wipe dry in one simple action. The patented pivot allows the user to gain more reach and a faster action than any tool available internationally. The tool comprises of a specialised cleaning pad and a rotatable squeegee resulting in a one-swipe cleaning or independent scrubbing action. The Combi has become a cleaning tool that addresses the cleaning requirements of a great variety of applications.
* Ergonomically designed.
* Easier to use, with less physical strain.
* Offers easy access to areas previously difficult to reach.
* Cuts cleaning time by up to 50% over other tools.
* Ensure optimal ergonomic and functional aspects are addressed.
* The main feature of this tool is the pivot point: It allows the tool direction to be altered by way of a turn of the wrist, as opposed to stretching, flexing, reaching and heavy tilting of the wrist. The handle is designed for a comfortable grip, with details to assist rotation and give directional feedback.
The appearance is deliberately that of a commercial, professional, attention to detail tool, to persuade the consumer of a durable product. Consistent styling details to tools for a corporate family look.
* The Combi is made from recyclable plastics, re-useable aluminium and rubber.
* The Wagtail Combi is a tool designed to replace harmful chemicals used in spray and wipe window cleaning chemicals.
* The Combi also uses less water than traditional squeegees and works best with a very mild biodegradable dishwashing detergent in the water.
The Wagtail pivot is internationally patented and this allows the cleaner to gain more reach, work faster, and reduce muscle strain. The cleaning head on the same plane as the squeegee has two advantages, one, a single swipe cleaning action and two, a pre- determined angle to the cleaning surface, making it easier for the user.
Why does the product represent design excellence and why do you believe it deserves an Australian International Design Award?
Important criteria used to judge the Australian Design Awards are innovation, ergonomics, function and marketability.
The Wagtail Combi excels in all these points.
* Won Australia’s Best Innovation Award 1996 (Small Business Development Corp.)
* The Wagtail Combi was submitted to the 1998 International Inventors Exhibition in Geneva where it won a gold medal.
* IP Australia requested the Wagtail Combi for the case study 1999.
* The Ergonomic report was presented at the International Symposium for Ergonomics in Istanbul, Turkey 1996.
* Industrial Designer, Michael Tommasi, designed the Combi, at Studio Naar.
* Box & Dice built working prototypes for product testing.
* Engaged University Ergonomics Lecturer (Dr Austin Adams NSW University) for ergonomic assessments.
* It will allow a professional user to complete a job in half the usual time, with less physical strain. This means significantly higher earnings.
* The tool has broader applications than any other existing tool, reducing the number of different tools needed.
* Low cost manufacture results in a value for money product.
* Packaging designed to be useful for storage and enticing and low cost packaging for major retail.
