Tratar

Problem solving and design process

To design a device that can aid people living in regions of disaster-prone zones. Focused on flooding, creating a solution which the user can readily deploy and are not dependent on authorities to take action.

Class project / 4 weeks / Individual

Research

Some basic research was done asking people from around the country about their experiences and how often they encountered natural disasters. Most relied on authorities to take action and felt helpless in such a situation. Their needs were identified and brainstorming was done.

Problem areas

Some common pain points were observed based on the current scenario. Nobody knew about emergency backpacks and lacked awareness of such things. These bags available in the market are bulky and difficult to store. Once stored it’s difficult to find it in case of emergencies.

Concepts

Concepts were made with the idea of a small compact device that can be marketed as another product to serve a dual purpose and encourage users to buy creating awareness of such situations.

Mockups

Mockups were made to understand the shape better and dive deep into how it will function, what all features could be incorporated, and making the whole product quick and easy to operate.

3D Modeling

Detailing was done once the final form was selected and some environmental renders were made to see how the device could fit naturally yet be distinct to catch the eye in emergencies. The product serves a dual function and is sold as a desk lamp when the emergency kit is not in use to raise awareness.

Features

All the features were explored thoroughly to make sure they covered every need the user asked for. These features were also validated with disaster-affected victims to see how useful they can be.

Front - docs, passport, phone, wallet, keys

Prototype

Prototypes were made to test the design and understand its shortcomings. The first stand failed and newer models were made rapidly to test the weight, balance, and stance until the final design worked.

Usage

The usage of the product is pretty straightforward. Here the whole idea was to keep the interaction fast and easy so it can be deployed in emergencies when even the slightest second matters the most.