Capsula
Problem Statement
Project Overview
/ Context
By 2035, Venice faces significant challenges due to rising sea levels, with frequent flooding endangering homes and valuables. The project addresses the need for a practical solution to protect personal belongings from water damage.
/ Challenges
Residents need a reliable and aesthetically pleasing way to safeguard their most precious items from floods. Existing solutions lack the necessary combination of functionality and design.
/ Objectives
To design a product that not only protects valuables from water damage but also serves as an elegant piece of furniture that blends seamlessly with home decor.
University: Politecnico di Milano, MSc Product Service System Design
Project Duration: Academic Year 2019/2020
Project Type: Product Design, Service Design, UX Design
Your Role: Designer, Concept Developer, and Visualiser
Team Members: Team project
Research and Insights
/ User Research
The project considered the future scenario of Venice, analyzing the rising sea levels and the increasing frequency of floods. Personas were created to understand the needs of different user groups, from children to professionals.
/ Key Findings
There is a strong need for a solution that combines practicality with aesthetics, ensuring that users can protect their belongings without compromising on style. The research highlighted the importance of customizable design to cater to different user preferences.
/ Personas and Journey Maps
Developed personas such as Matteo, a child with dreams of becoming an astronaut, and Arianna, a design student, to reflect the diverse needs of potential users.
Design Process
/ Ideation
The concept of “Capsula” was born from the need to create a waterproof container that could also serve as a piece of furniture. The design had to ensure that the product could float, be aesthetically pleasing, and protect valuables effectively.
/ Concept Development
Capsula is designed as a wooden, waterproof container with an interior textile bag to protect valuables. It is equipped with motors for movement and sensors to detect water levels, allowing it to float and reach the owner using GPS in case of floods.
/ Wireframes and Prototypes
Detailed prototypes were developed, including the design of the wooden exterior, the waterproof interior bag, and the app interface that controls and monitors the Capsula.
/ User Testing
The prototype was tested to ensure it met the functional requirements of floating and protecting items, as well as user expectations for design and usability.
Final Solution
/ Design Overview
Capsula is a waterproof, floating container designed to protect valuables during floods. It features a wooden exterior with customizable elements, an interior waterproof bag, and an integrated motor system for movement. The product is controlled via an app that monitors weight, battery life, and the status of the Capsula.
/ Key Features
1. Waterproof wooden structure with a leather handle and customizable accents.
2. Interior textile bag with compartments for storing valuables.
3. Integrated motor system for movement and GPS tracking.
4. App-based control for monitoring the status and location of the Capsula.
/ Visuals
High-quality images of the Capsula design, including detailed views of the wooden structure, interior bag, and the app interface.
/ Design Artifacts
System maps, service technology diagrams, and floating tests were conducted to ensure stability and functionality in water.
Reflections and Learnings
/ Challenges Faced
Ensuring the product could float while maintaining a stable and aesthetically pleasing design was a significant challenge.
/ Solutions
Careful consideration of weight distribution and the use of waterproof materials allowed for the successful development of a product that meets both functional and aesthetic goals.
/ Key Takeaways
The importance of integrating user-centered design with practical functionality, especially in products intended for use in extreme conditions.