George Mabey and Benjamin Hunt, Product Design, Power of Aluminium Awards
A scooter that folds into a square the size of a piece of A4 paper and a guitar stand which incorporates an amplifier came first and runner-up respectively in ALFED's Power of Aluminium Awards.
Innovative design
The scooter which clinched first prize was the brainchild of George Mabey, 22, a final year Engineering Product Design student. Runner-up was Product Design student Benjamin Hunt, 19, with his 'busking stand' guitar amp. Both collected their prizes at a ceremony at the Houses of Parliament.
Both products exploit aluminium extrusions – solid aluminium that has been heated to a high temperature and pushed through a precision die. The scooter works by linking extruded parts of aluminium with a tensioning cable which, when tightened, pulls the sections together in a rigid structure that can support the weight of an adult.
The guitar stand, meanwhile, works on ergonomic design principles providing guitarists with an amplifier that is "ideal for both hobbyists and professionals." It can be carried by hand and offers its user an opportunity to perform to small audiences or play with high sound quality outside of the studio setting.
Prestigious competition
George Mabey, won £1,000 along with first-prize trophy. He says, "I was amazed at winning such a brilliant competition which I was proud to take part in as part of my final project here at London South Bank University. Having my work acknowledged at the awards ceremony and recognised by the industry is the icing on the cake and a great way to finish my time at University."
Ben Hunt, who turned his love of the guitar into the university project, says: "I'm overwhelmed at my win and having my design acknowledged by ALFED. I've never won a competition like that and the really great feedback I've received confirms that product design is the right career choice for me. It was great getting to meet so many people in the industry at the awards ceremony, getting my name known and ultimately a brilliant way to top off my first year at University."
Simon MacVicker, President of ALFED, said: "This year's awards have really demonstrated the immense talent that exists out there amongst our young people, who in many cases are working close to professional design standards – the creativity is outstanding."
Incredible talent
Robin Jones, Principal Lecturer in the Department of Engineering and Design at London South Bank University said:
"We are delighted that our students have won such prestigious awards in this national aluminium extrusion design competition. His folding A4 scooter design has now been patented and he is working on a fully-functioning prototype for exhibition in June. Ben is a first year BSc Product Design student and his guitar stand with integrated amplifier is an innovative concept aimed at a specific market segment.
"Both projects display the high professional design standards which are be expected by prospective employers. Here at LSBU we're immensely proud that our students have such incredible talent and will undoubtedly have a great future in design ahead of them."