Natalya Charlemagne
Innovation Lab
Week 1: Problem Definition/Research
I. Three Non-problems
- Stepping on gum and having it stick to the bottom of your shoe is frustrating and disgusting. It creates a sticky mess and requires awkward scraping or the use of additional tools. To address this problem, I would wanna create something that is like a peel-off material that goes on the sole of the shoe to keep the soles appearing as cleaner once the material is peeled off.
- Turning off the light without having to get out of bed is a common mishap, especially when one is comfortably settled for the night. The inconvenience of having to leave the bed to reach the light switch can disrupt relaxation. A telescopic-like stick that can extend to reach the light switch, allowing users to turn off the lights from the comfort of their bed.
- Tangled headphones are a frustration that many people have, often resulting in wasted time and irritation when trying to unravel them. The problem usually occurs when headphones are stored in pockets, bags, or purses, leading to a mess of cords that can be inconvenient to untangle. Creating a device that keeps these two wires from becoming tangled or “overly” tangled would save a lot of stress and frustration.
II. Favorite Unnecessary Invention
Variation on Normal from Dominic Wilcox
Dominic Wilcox’s World’s First Art Exhibition for Dogs is an innovative and thoughtful venture that reflects a blend of creativity and consideration for our companions. The interactive elements, such as the giant dog food bowl filled with ball pit balls and the simulated car window experience, show a playful understanding of their behaviors. The inclusion of scents, colors visible to dogs, and artworks at their eye level demonstrates a genuine effort to engage dogs in a multisensory experience. While it may seem silly, the attention to what captures a dog’s interest showcases a level of care and creativity that makes this exhibition both cute and surprisingly innovative for dog lovers. Wilcox seems to have acknowledged the limited range of activities available to dogs, especially when compared to the endless options humans have in their daily lives. Unlike people who enjoy an endless range of daily activities, dogs often find their engagement opportunities confined mainly to dog parks. It’s a good example of thinking beyond human perspectives to cater to the unique interests and senses of our pets.
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