Darren Havelberg Product Designer Portfolio

My ultimate goal as a product designer is to add value through problem solving whilst being sympathetic to the strengths and limitations of manufacturing processes in order to arrive at optimal design detailing.

I believe effective design stems from a thorough understanding of user needs and the problems the product addresses, from core functionality to elicited emotional response.

Through continuous improvement, iterative refinement, and collaboration with diverse teams, I ensure that my designs are both practical and ground-breaking. My extensive industry experience and commitment to user-centric design drive me to create high-quality, impactful products.

Contact & Enquiries

professional capacity

As a product designer, I add value by merging clever, innovative ideas with a thorough understanding of manufacturing capabilities. I believe in the power of continuous iterative improvement and am compelled to refine projects to a high level of detail. Graduating from the University of South Australia with a postgraduate degree in Industrial Design (Product Innovation) I am nearing a decade in industry experience, collaborating with diverse teams to produce a range of successful products. My ethos centres on understanding the core problems my designs aim to solve whilst adhering to brand design language. to create cohesive and impactful products. I strive to create products that are not only beautiful but also functional and impactful.

  • University: Industrial Design

    My studies at the University of South Australia, where I earned a postgraduate degree in Industrial Design (Product Innovation), provided me with a solid foundation in design principles, advanced manufacturing techniques, and innovative problem-solving. This education has equipped me with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the dynamic field of product design.

  • International Team Experience

    During my three years in Cambodia, I faced the complexities of a new cultural landscape while tackling significant professional challenges. I was responsible for setting up and optimizing manufacturing processes, enhancing system efficiency, and ensuring robust quality and safety standards. This period was the most demanding of my career but crucial for my growth, as it taught me adaptability, leadership, and the importance of empathy in a diverse work environment. My experience in Cambodia allowed me to develop new products efficiently, leveraging immediate access to manufacturing facilities and streamlining the prototype design process.

  • Fabrication

    I’ve always had an innate desire to build. I have experience using a wide range of tools and machinery to fabricate an extensive range of items.
    Fabrication experience includes:
    - Lathe & Milling - Wood Working - Welding & Metalwork - Painting
    - Casting and Mould Making - 3D Printing

  • Parametric CAD Modelling

    I am proficient in parametric CAD modelling (SolidWorks & Inventor), which allows me to create flexible and adaptable 3D models. Experience with advanced features within surfacing, extrusion based, sheet-metal, simulation, rendering and adaptive parametric models such as iParts.

  • Computer Aided Manufacturing

    Experience using Computer Aided Manufacturing software for CNC multi-axis machines, including validation and testing of machines.

  • Engineering Drawings

    I possess strong skills in creating detailed engineering drawings, which are essential for translating design concepts into precise specifications for manufacturing. My ability to produce accurate and comprehensive technical drawings ensures that all design elements are clearly communicated, facilitating efficient and error-free production processes.

  • Graphic Design & Technical Illustration

    Extensive experience with the Adobe suite generating highly polished graphics and technical illustrations for applications such as installation guides and manufacturing documentation. I have developed a strong capacity to visually communicate product details and assembly.

  • Artistic Illustration

    A childhood passion of mine, when I wasn’t busy pulling apart my toys to see how they work, was to draw. I have carried this skill on into adulthood.

  • Design Process

    I have comprehensive experience in guiding products from initial concept to market launch. My expertise spans ideation, detailed design, prototyping, testing, and final production integration for a number of products.

FEATURED PROJECTS: STRATCO

Below are some select products developed whilst working at Stratco, where I was the lead designer responsible for the design and manufacture setup. This process included brief/ problem determination, design iteration, testing, CAM programming, assisting with engineering testing and leading manufacturing setup. Collaboration and combined efforts of the entire Stratco team were essential to the products success.

FEATURED PROJECTS: uni & PERSONAL

Below are some select projects from university and personal work.

Contact me

dh-ind-design@outlook.com
+61 473 220 908

Adelaide, South Australia