Izvorni znanstveni članak

https://doi.org/10.5552/drvind.2026.0347

Design and Construction of Multifunctional Upholstered Furniture from Cocos nucifera (Coconut) for a University Hall of Residence

Ibukun Francis Adeagbo ; Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Nigeria
Okunlola Ayobami Olatunji ; Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Nigeria
Taofeek Boladale Salami ; Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Nigeria
Tajudeen Adebiyi ; Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, Nigeria

Sažetak

Due to limitation of space in university residence halls, need for multifunctional furniture that promotes space utilisation, flexibility and convenience for user(s) has increased compared to single-function furniture that is costly and occupies more space. This study aimed to design and construct a multifunctional upholstered furniture unit from Cocos nucifera (coconut) for a university hall of residence. Specifically, it investigates the composition of a single unit that combines all functions of a bed, chair and drawer to achieve improved spatial efficiency, ergonomics and functional versatility. The study adopted Research and Development (R&D) research design involving information gathering, planning, prototyping development, testing and product refinement. Coconuttimber, fabricated iron-framework, upholstery materials and transformation mechanisms were utilised in the construction of the prototype. Fourteen participants were involved in the preliminary evaluation which comprised assessment of space availability and usability survey. Descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, normality tests and Spearman rank correlation analysis were used to analyse data. Results revealed that the multifunctional furniture occupied significantly less space (182 cm × 26 cm × 29 cm) compared to single-function furniture arrangements (267 cm × 90 cm × 81 cm). The reliability analysis indicated acceptable internal consistency of ergonomic performance (α = 0.721) and space-saving effectiveness (α = 0.785). A significant positive correlation was found between space-saving performance and ergonomic performance (rs = 0.654, p < 0.05). Cost analysis furtherindicated a higher cost of 52.3 % of single-function furniture as against the developed multifunctional furniture. Hence, this study presents a new approach to provide an affordable ergonomic, space-saving multifunctional upholstered furniture using Cocos nucifera.

Ključne riječi

Cocos nucifera; design and construction; multifunctional; upholstered furniture

Hrčak ID:

351301

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/351301

Datum izdavanja:

28.9.2026.

Posjeta: 0 *