Cat feeder
Vicky Lines
This eco-friendly, secure cat feeder is crafted from 100% recyclable willow that prevents dogs from accessing medicated cat food, reduces waste and costs, and prioritises sustainability, functionality, and user satisfaction through thoughtful prototyping and collaborative design.
Design Problem
How might we design an eco-friendly secure cat feeder, preventing the dog from stealing the cat's medicated food, reducing extra food and medication costs, addressing owner frustration
Developing a tangible and observable concept was both thrilling and challenging, filled with obstacles along the way. I quickly realized how easy it was to become distracted by ideas, often justifying even the most extreme ones before refining them into a feasible concept. Observing and accepting differing perspectives was necessary for growth, through creative brainstorming sessions with a broad spectrum of participants.
Description of the Project
Prototyping was thought provoking. I opted for a workable yet unpredictable material, questioning whether the form would collaborate effectively and serve its intended purpose. I was mindful of creating something that was both functional and aesthetically satisfying, ensuring that it resonated positively with my creative team. The environmental impact was a major consideration, reinforcing the principles of reduction, low production, reuse, and sustainability. The use of willow, a compostable multipurpose resource, aligned with these values.
Constructing the prototype revealed both advantages and limitations. Surprisingly, it exceeded expectations in functionality, allowing easy refinement of its shortcomings. the challenge of constructing from a paper-based concept to prototype modelling. It was in itself thought-provoking, a visual, hands-on, evolving process. The fact that it was 100% recyclable validated our commitment to an eco-friendly and sustainable concept. Challenging the design? interacting with a product beyond the visual experience, and appearance that sometimes is a facade for meeting aesthetic pleasure. Testing in another home confirmed its success, the prototype fulfilled its intended purpose, still in use today.
About me
Description of my-self: I am a self-employed Honeybee farmer on the National Garden Scheme, creating a wildlife haven. The Heartened Homestead also shelters rescue animals, all inspiring my Open University studies and Wild at ♥ Art workshop plans.