The assignment was to re-design the everyday fire extinguisher for a new context. My scenario was a user going on a outdoor excursion (ie. camping, hiking), where there could potentially be fire. It had to be lightweight, portable, easily accessible, comfortable to hold, and be recognized as a fire extinguisher.
IDEATION
Research
Mounting
Buttons
Final Concept
USER TESTING
Scenario Set Up
Tools used for Testing
Sketches of the 3 Models Tested
During the user testing phase, the 2 things being tested were which form was the most ergonomically comfortable and where the ON/OFF button should be located due to natural hand placement. The testing area was set up to allow for the user to feel like they were camping.
The results were the 3rd form was preferred from the testers. From the pictures shown above, the thumb location was relatively the same for each test therefore showcasing where the button should be placed on the top product.
MODEL MAKING PROCESS
wood lathe
sanding
hand carving
milling
applying gesso
hand painting
The process involved using different machines to form the basic shape, and then hand carving the foam to make the details and exact form required. The milling machine was used to remove foam to allow for button details. After the correct form was completed, I proceeded to gesso the foam and hand paint to achieve the desired look. The final touches were a gloss finish and printed vinyl to add logos and icons to complete the model.
prototype
basic shape
hand carving
sanding/detailing
painting
printed vinyl details
FINAL MODEL
Bottom View
Being Held
Close up of Top Button
Side View
In Context
Top View
Bottom Detail Button
The final design was a handheld, lightweight potassium based aerosol extinguisher called "AO-K". It drew affordances from a common camping tool; a flashlight. The product would be mounted to the outside of the backpack using a clipping mechanism allowing for it to be quickly and easily grabbed in the case of an emergency. The user would simply grab the extinguisher, point at the fire and press both the top and bottom buttons to unlock the system and start the extinguishing process. The technology used is based off a extinguisher used in Sweden (refer to MAUS fire extinguisher).
FINAL BOARD
Presentation
