A Framework for Applying Kansei Engineering Principles in the Design of Small Household Appliances

The demand for added value in small household appliances gradually increased. However, existing theoretical design methods often struggled to achieve satisfactory results in the practical design of small household appliances. Sensitivity engineering (KE), by deeply understanding user perceptions, preferences, and emotions, incorporated these factors into design decisions, aiming to improve the quality and user satisfaction of products or services. Its core idea was to consider human emotions and intuitions in technical development and design. This study explored the effectiveness of integrating KE with iterativeprototype design in the context of small household appliance design methodologies. In the first phase, we explored user consumption trends and preferences for small household appliances and reviewed academic papers on the application of KE in product design. We proposed an innovative design theoretical model to meet user demands for in small household appliances. In the second phase, we employed case validation, applying the methodological model that integrated KE with iterative prototype design to the design of a humidifier, and received positive feedback. This research demonstrated the rationale of incorporating prototype design iteration methods into KE and provided valuable insights for the design and development of small household appliances.