Product structural design, the backbone of a product’s performance and usability, has become a key battleground for foreign brands aiming to stand out in global markets. Unlike mere aesthetic tweaks, advanced structural design solves real-world problems—from easy maintenance to long-lasting durability—while enhancing user experience. Leading international brands are pioneering approaches that redefine what’s possible, setting new standards for the industry.

Dutch electronics brand Fairphone is a trailblazer in modular structural design. Its Fairphone 5 features a modular structure where every key component—battery, camera, display, and processor—can be easily removed and replaced with basic tools. Unlike most smartphones, which require professional disassembly, Fairphone’s design uses a snap-on back cover and clearly labeled modules. This structure not only extends the phone’s lifespan (users can replace a faulty battery instead of buying a new device) but also reduces electronic waste. The brand’s structural choice aligns with its sustainability mission, proving that structural design can drive both environmental and user benefits.

Another example comes from German outdoor gear maker Vaude, particularly its Seon 32+8 backpack. The backpack’s structural design prioritizes both durability and comfort. It uses a reinforced frame sheet made from recycled plastic, which distributes weight evenly across the user’s back and shoulders—critical for long hikes. The shoulder straps and hip belt feature a layered structure: a soft, breathable mesh inner layer prevents sweating, while a sturdy outer layer adds support. Additionally, the backpack’s main compartment has a flexible, expandable structure that can adjust from 32L to 40L, adapting to different trip needs. Vaude’s focus on structural details ensures the backpack is not just tough, but also comfortable to use for hours.

Swedish furniture giant IKEA also excels in user-friendly structural design, as seen in its EKET storage cabinet series. The cabinets use a “click-and-lock” structural system: panels connect without screws, allowing users to assemble the cabinet in minutes. The modular structure also lets users mix and match different cabinet sizes and colors to fit their space—whether it’s a small apartment or a large office. IKEA’s structural design reduces assembly frustration and shipping costs (flat-packing minimizes space) while giving users flexibility. It’s a masterclass in how structural design can make complex products accessible to everyone.

These innovations show that foreign product structural design is no longer just about “holding things together.” It’s about solving user pain points, reducing environmental impact, and adding versatility. As consumers demand more sustainable, easy-to-use products, brands that invest in thoughtful structural design will continue to lead. In the end, great structural design is invisible—it works seamlessly to make products better, without drawing attention to itself.