Cooler Project
In this project, I took a look into the current market coolers. Leveraging insightful research, I conceptualized and developed a cooler that not only addresses the shortcomings of existing coolers but also introduces novel features to elevate user experience. This design offers refreshing solutions to meet the evolving demands of modern consumers.
Process
01.
Interviews and research
02.
Ideation and sketching
03.
Advanced sketches
04.
Prototyping and testing
05.
Final design and renders
Interviews and Research
The initial phase of this project involved an exploration of the cooler market landscape. The approach encompassed surveys, store audits, and comprehensive market evaluations, in which I gathered details of existing solutions. This phase aimed to find prevailing consumer preferences, identify trends, and discern the strengths and weaknesses of current coolers. This first step not only provided valuable insights but also served as a crucial benchmark for crafting a cooler that meets the expectations of users in both form and function.
mobility & stability
The bulkiness of coolers posed a risk of toppling, especially during transportation. Designs lacked the adaptability required for quick and hassle-free packing into vehicles. The cooler should integrate mobility with stability and promote a form that considers this challenge.
liquid remains
The excess liquid at the bottom of the cooler is unreachable by the spouts without tilting. This tilting also causes instability and can lead to spills or accidents. This flaw hindered user experience, requiring additional effort to access the entirety of the beverage.
space & dilution
Ice is often used to keep the drinks cold. The use of ice to maintain beverage temperatures within the cooler consumes internal space, leaving less room for the drinks. The ice will also inevitably melt and dilute the beverages, compromising taste and overall satisfaction.
Ideation and Rough Sketches
The project transitioned into a phase of rough sketching and conceptual exploration. This stage involved a debate between a rectangular or cylindrical form; weighing the pros and cons of either silhouette. In addition to the overall shape, the nuances of spout structure and occurrence were explored to ensure both accessibility and efficiency in liquid retrieval. The consideration of handle placement and material were critical for mobility and handling. Through quick exploratory sketches, this phase aimed to investigate ideas for the cooler's overall aesthetics and functionality.
Advanced Sketches
The advanced sketching phase is where the conceptual becomes concrete, and inspiration converges with functionality. In this stage of the project, the initial multitude of ideas are narrowed from the impractical to the promising. Concepts are redrawn in detail, incorporating specific measurements and layouts for subsequent prototyping. Notably, the spouts residing on all sides maximizes accessibility. In addition, the converging triangle in the bottom interior addresses the inability of the spouts, eliminating the need to tilt the cooler for liquid retrieval. Finally, having the cooler be electrically cooled eliminates the need for ice to maintain cold temperatures.
Prototyping and Testing
The prototyping and testing phase involves hands-on experiments of refinement and validation of the cooler design. The initial round saw the creation of three small-scale physical models, crafted from high-density foam through hand-cutting and carving techniques. Transitioning to the final design, a full-size model was sculpted with precision. After using a bandsaw and an array of workshop tools, I hand carved details and refined the surface. These prototypes were subjected to the discerning gaze of peer designers and the invaluable insights of interviewees from the research stage. This collaborative assessment not only validated the design but provided invaluable feedback.
01
Small-Scale Models
Using high-density foam and a variety of workshop tools, three small-scale models were crafted to explore the design of the final concepts.
03
Full-Size Prototype
A full-size prototype was crafted by cutting out layers of foam and carving out a majority of the cooler's form. Mainly, the indentation where the spouts attach.
05
Assembly & Smoothing
The body of the cooler was assembled by gluing together the layers of foam. Any imperfections or crevices were filled with spackle to ensure a smooth surface finish.
02
Small-Scale Refinement
Drawing from the insights of peer designers, adjustments and refinements were made to the small-scale models. The final direction was then chosen.
04
The Lid & Cup Holder
Using a table saw, the lid was accurately angled. Additionally, a specialized rig was created for precision while carving out the cup holder holes.
06
Finishing Touches
The final step involved hand sanding and carving the details of the cooler, including realistic seamlines. Finally, the prototype was painted to bring the design to life.
Final design and Renders
Finally the cooler model was photographed. Key features are highlighted such as the square-shaped design and the converging bottom interior; ensuring enhanced stability and optimal access to all contents. Additionally, spouts are located in a slanted triangle on each vertical face to facilitate access . The integration of an electric cooling system not only preserves the beverage flavor by eliminating the need for ice but maximizes space within the cooler. This cooler encapsulates researched craftsmanship, and an implemented pursuit of excellence.
