PRISMATE- Precision Cleaning at your Fingertips

Siddhi Bihani

BD3010

This project embodies the essence of merging design thinking with the industrial realm, transforming ideas into reality through meticulous research, market study, and conceptualization. At its core lies Prismate, a revolutionary kitchen cleaning device crafted to simplify daily chores while balancing aesthetics and functionality—a true reflection of tomorrow’s needs. Versatile and efficient, Prismate tackles utensil cleaning, platform scrubbing, backsplash maintenance, and those hard-to-reach corners with ease, saving effort and time. This journey not only redefined problem-solving through design but also underscored the importance of manufacturability, usability, and beauty, culminating in a device that seamlessly integrates innovation into everyday life.

Report Content

The project began with an exploration rooted in personal biases, drawing upon observations of the kitchen as a dynamic space influenced by financial, social, and cultural aspects. These initial insights laid the foundation for a structured research methodology, guiding the design process with depth and clarity.

Building on generalized observations, the process shifted to focused user-centered research. I engaged with diverse user groups, from joint families to nuclear households, uncovering shared challenges across all setups. A recurring pain point emerged: the need for efficient cleaning and waste management solutions in the kitchen.

Next, I conducted interviews with users, delving into the challenges they face in cleaning and waste management. Surveys complemented these insights, while a market study revealed gaps and limitations in existing products. This thorough analysis helped define a clear target group and shape the product's hypothesis, grounded in user needs and market opportunities.

I facilitated quick brainstorming sessions with users to explore ideas for the most effective product solutions. This collaborative process informed the creation of a detailed user persona, capturing their needs and preferences. Building on this, I developed a CMF (Color, Material, Finish) mood board, enriched with references, to align the design with the user's lifestyle and aesthetic expectations.

I explored various concepts, ranging from handheld designs to automated solutions like a Roomba. This phase allowed for diverse ideation, considering multiple possibilities to address user needs effectively while balancing functionality and convenience. Each concept was evaluated for its practicality and innovation.

I identified innovative technologies to enhance simplicity and efficiency, focusing on streamlining the product's functionality for the user. This involved refining the operational mechanics and integrating features to elevate user experience. From the selected concept, I began deriving the form, ensuring it resonated with both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

The next step focused on finalizing the product's look, feel, and aesthetics. I created detailed CMF renders, blending materials, colors, and finishes to craft a visually appealing design that aligns with the product's functionality and user preferences. These renders brought the concept to life, emphasizing both beauty and purpose.

To showcase the product's unique selling points, I developed context renders that visually highlighted its functionalities in real-life scenarios. Additionally, an exploded view was created to dissect the product architecture, offering a clear understanding of each component and its role in the overall functionality, ensuring transparency in design and operation.

I prepared detailed technical drawings to precisely communicate the product's dimensions, assembly, and specifications. Mockup models were created for user testing, providing invaluable insights into ergonomics, usability, and functionality. These iterative steps refined the design and ensured a seamless transition to prototype development, optimizing the making process.

Throughout the semester, I worked on exercises that enriched my understanding of design research and its application. These included conducting in-depth user analysis through observations, interviews, and surveys to uncover real needs and pain points. I explored connecting emotions to products by translating user attributes into tangible designs, fostering emotional resonance. Developing design styles and languages taught me to create cohesive aesthetics while balancing functionality. Additionally, studying brand identities provided insights into aligning product design with a brand’s philosophy and target audience. These exercises emphasized the importance of research-driven, user-centric approaches in crafting meaningful and impactful solutions.