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Product design sketches with colored pencils

Multi-Function Utensils

Shannon Thomas

The multi-purpose utensils. This works by having one handle and multiple attachments for different needs. The benefit of my project is less drawer, or counter space is used up by the array of kitchen utensils. 

Torn paper reveals 'BACK' button

Design Objective 

The aim of this project was to design a product to help those with a small kitchen. This led me to a design proposal of ‘redesign an existing kitchen product to help those with a small kitchen’.  

The problem I tackled was the lack of space within a kitchen due to clutter and multiple appliances taking up valuable space. This can affect the enjoyment people have when in the kitchen. Due to the ever-growing population many people suffer from lack of space due to new houses being built with smaller rooms. This design would help free up some space in the kitchen, allowing more space for cooking and preparing food. 

Design Problem

Multi-Function Utensil: various kitchen tools
Kitchen utensil sketches on display

To gather a better understanding of this issue I carried out some research such as immersion, questionnaires, and researching existing products. Then to generate my initial ideas I used a variety of experienced designer methods such as associative thinking, sketching and drawing, and informal brainstorming. I selected my idea using a selection matrix and marking them against my criteria and constraints.

Process

Round wooden table with twelve chairs
Kitchen utensil concept sketches: Pizza cutter, whisk, spatula, etc.

My goals during this module were to gather a better understanding of the design process. Once I’ve graduated, I would like to work towards being a product or furniture designer.

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