Blog Post 2

This shaved ice machine has a relatively simple but efficient design. The product is just a mechanical engine that turns gears which power a metal plate that spins. This plate pushes down upon the ice when force is applied to the top of the machine, allowing the plate to push the ice with force onto the razor, in turn shaving the ice. That is essentially the full extent of the functionality of the machine.

This machine would be considered a luxury item, as shaved ice is not really a necessity anywhere. This being said, the people who use this product are probably not impoverished, as they would not be using their money on such an extravagance. Additionally, this product is not terribly expensive so anyone who can afford to spare 60 bucks for a desert maker would be a potential purchaser of the product. Also, this product creates shaved ice treats. It’s possible that buyers of this product are more likely to live in warmer climates where shaved ice would be a more enjoyable desert.

The retail value of this product is $60. In designing this product, the creators used a medium quality plastic casing as well as a medium quality engine to drive the machine. The cogs are plastic and the product would be considered a medium quality appliance. The plastic probably cost only a few dollars to make if that, and the engine is probably about 5-10 at most as well. The cost to use this product once includes the $60 initial investment, as well as a few cents of electricity per usage. Possible replacement razors could be needed, running about 50 cents a piece.

By: Robert Neal