Challenge 1 – Week 1

Week 1: Problem Definition/Research

Unnecessary Inventions and Whimsical Devices

 

After researching unnecessary inventions and looking at various examples, there are many things I noticed about successful products. Firstly, we should not underestimate the importance of aesthetics and ‘cuteness.’ More often than not, even if an object may not have much practical use, it will still do well if it can appeal to users visually or emotionally. Therefore, when brainstorming for possible solutions to non-problem problems, I placed visual design and emotional intrigue as some of the most important factors.

 

My Problem and Struggles I’ve Faced with it?

What are some mildly inconvenient problems I am facing in my everyday life as a college student? Some initial thoughts that crossed my mind revolved around the numerous minor inconveniences I often faced when snacking. For instance, when I’m hungry but feel too lazy to leave my bed for food, when I’m reluctant to disturb my roommates while eating or preparing food, the annoyances that come with taking ingredients on the go, using impractical kitchen tools, and when you realize you forgot to pack a spoon for your lunch, among many other annoyances. While there are numerous examples, rather than tackling them all at once, I hope to develop simple solutions for at least a few of them through a single, versatile device.

 

List of 3 Non-Problems and Possible Product Solutions?

1) Getting wet while washing dishes

One of my biggest peeves arises when I finally gain the motivation to be responsible and tackle the large stack of dishes that often piles up in my kitchen. However, practically every time, and despite my best efforts, splashes of water always seem to find themselves on my clothes. A universal experience that most of us face at least once in our lives, not only does it leave you damp and uncomfortable, but the constant battle against water makes a seemingly simple task irritating. For this issue, I envision a clothing piece that doubles both as a poncho and a plate drier. Besides shielding the user from pesky water droplets, it incorporates absorbent fabric that assists in drying dishes. This would end the days of both soggy clothes and plates.

2) Midnight snacking without disturbing others

With the stress brought on by each semester’s new classes also come late nights spent studying and doing homework.  Thanks to this academic stress and sleepless nights I sometimes forget to eat dinner and end up craving some midnight snacks. Still, despite this hunger, I find myself having limited options with how to snack without disrupting my sleeping roommates. Hence, a tool that allows for easy access to snacks, silently, and without disturbances is needed. This invention could resemble a small box for easy bedside storage, and equip noise-canceling features, as well as internal glow in the dark components that would allow for a gentle and ambient light. With this, the experience of snacking is enhanced by allowing users to now ease their hunger without the need of getting up from their comfortable beds, while at the same time guaranteeing a peaceful environment for everyone.

3) Forgetting my Utensils

As someone who often packs lunches and opts to eat meals on the go, I’ve confronted the problem of forgetting utensils repeatedly, thus leaving me hungry and unable to fully enjoy my food. This common hassle leaves me frustrated, as I search for any tool that could serve as a solution. For these reasons, a product like a small keychain akin to a pocket knife that includes foldable utensils would be one simple and practical answer. Another version of this product could also feature compact and attachable pieces for on-the-go use. Both offer a convenient experience and a variety of practical uses.

 

Favorite Variation on Normal:

Out of all the examples of unnecessary inventions and Dominic Wilcox’s Tea cup and saucer with cooling fan.

Although its level of utility may be debatable, this product addresses a problem I’ve personally encountered. Not only that, but it also offers a unique and aesthetically pleasing solution to my dilemmas with a product that I wouldn’t hesitate to display in my dormitory. Dominic Wilcox stands out to me particularly due to his artistic flair and clever fusion of art and gadgets. His pieces more often than not utilize delicate and intricate details that entice audiences and foster curiosity. 

 

Other Examples and Influences:

Meanwhile searching for inspiration and further examples of unnecessary inventions, I noticed that there was often an abundance of kitchen gadgets. Whether it pertains to eating or preparing meals, there are many others who find themselves encountering similar dilemmas to mine. Following are some of my favorites that caught my attention: