New York City, NY
Toni Ann Hoffman
The Locus Watering Can
Class: Design Studio 1
School Year: Sophomore
To design around tools for well-being, the watering can be given as a design challenge for re-design. This was a group project but all the content on this page was the parts that I contributed to the design process.
The main area I focused on was function and wanted to find a way to make a watering can both innovative and simple.
Brainstorming Stage
Although the content on this page is my work this entire process was done as a group project. I took an initiative to collect everyone's ideas into brainstorming visuals. This helped us find common ground on what we liked and did not like.
Models
As a group, we created a model out of foam to get an idea of shape. This was then plastic molded for the final model,
3D Prinitng
The center ball bearing was 3D printed and acted as a rotational axis for the body to move around.
Handle Focus
The project revolved around creating an easier use for the designated product given. With the thought of watering cans carrying a heavy load, I studied various handles to create a balance throughout the body of the watering can- alleviating stress on just one area of the body.
Interchangable
I wanted the watering can to serve to multiple users so I explored the concept of having the nozzle be interchangeable for various watering needs.
Form Exploration
Finding a comfortable yet meaning form was important not only for aesthetic but for overall purpose. Emphasizing use and minimizing unnecessary details is important with necessity products.
Balance
Finding a form that not only alleviates the stress of the water weight but can distribute it through the body is an important part of this project.
Testing
To test various handles I attached the handles onto a bottle with the same amount of liquid I intend the watering can to hold. This helped especially with understanding the strain or support from different handles in various angles.
Spout
The curve allows the user to point at a direct shot or tilt more to allow a larger pour over.
Body
The balance of the water would flow equally through out the body. The edges allow the body be easily gripped as it roates around the bearing.
Bearing
The center ball bearing is where the body rotates around, alleviating stress from having to tilt the wrist.
Handle
The curve allows the user to tilt the body comfortably with one hand as the other holds the center to tilt.
Final Design