No pain, all gain - in every bite.
Project Brief
The Rundown
The Details
Re-design an existing handtool to improve its ergonomics through iterative design and qualitative testing.
As someone who loves to cook and knows the pain that comes with using awkward cooking tools for long periods of time, I was inspired to improve the cooking experience for everyone - especially those with hand and wrist mobility issues. Made out of lightweight titanium with rubber grips and an ergonomic shape, the Spatulove makes it easy for those with weak hands and poor wrist mobility to grip, flip, and whip up their next masterpiece.
3D CAD - Autodesk Fusion 360
Surface Modeling
Anthropometrics
The process…
User Testing
To begin, I interviewed several users about their experiences using spatulas. Using a subjective evaluation technique, users were able to diagram their pain and pressure points when using a spatula, allowing me to better understand what to consider and improve when redesigning a spatula for older users or those with mobility issues.
Design Exploration
With a good understanding of users’ pain points now, I began my design exploration of what possible new spatula grips could look like. I wanted to emphasize easier wrist rotation as the current rotation usually requires a 180 degree wrist rotation which can be painful for people with limited wrist mobility. I also wanted to target a more ergonomic grip as current spatula grips are often skinny which requires tighter grip which can lead to strain.
Hi-fidelity Concept Sketches
After combing through my design sketches, I chose the best two options based on aesthetics and functionality and explored them more in-depth.
Foam Models
I explored these two designs more in depth by creating foam core models. This way, users could physically interact with the product and could give me direct feedback on what felt intuitive, and what did not.
Anthropometrics
Using hand anthropometrics, I determined the sizing of my spatula handles. I considered the ages and genders of users when deciding on the dimensions of the spatula handle, as I wanted to create a spatula handle that worked for both men and women.
CAD & Finishing Touches
Based on my qualitative user tests and analyzing user responses, I made edits and finalized my spatula handle design. I learned and utilized surface modeling for the spatula handle to create smooth and ergonomic shapes for the handle. The final design includes a thick handle which allows users to hold the spatula with control and a softer grip. Rubber grips also indirectly tell users where to place their fingers, making it more intuitive. The cut-out allows for a number of comfortable gripping options, creating a more comfortable and versatile experience.
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Final Thoughts
Creating the Spatulove was a great way to practice need-finding for accessibility and considering anthropometrics in design.
This was my first time using surface modeling in CAD and it’s safe to say its a lot harder than it seems! But I am so grateful to all of my peers and mentors who helped me and I am proud of the final product. I can’t wait to put my new surface modeling skills to good use in future projects and designs to make peoples’ lives more easy, comfortable, and fun.