Beak
How can spice shakers be used in an easier way?
SPRING 2023
︎ Materials: Wood, Foam, Acrylic
︎ Skills: Rapid Prototyping, Ergonomics, CAD, Render
︎ Software: SOLIDWORKS, Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom
︎ Credits:
• Hanbyul Lee (Model) https://onestarlee.com/
Beak Spice Shaker provides an easy way to sprinkle your favorite seasonings. With its beak-like spout, Beak allows you to effortlessly control the flow of spices with just a tap, making seasoning your meals a breeze.
Process
Concept + Research
This project is centered around the exploration of form from nature.
By studying the snake skeleton, animal skin, and coral's wave patterns, I aimed to craft a modular design that merges form and function for an ergonomic spice shaker set.
It was interesting to see how corals guide with their wave-like patterns, evoking a captivating ripple effect when placed together or how the repetition of a unit creates an interesting pattern above seen in gator/shark skin.
Prototypes + User Testing
Before moving onto sketches, I produced quick sketch models to figure out how my observations from nature can inspire its form. Prototypes helped me find a basic structure and pattern through experimentation from paper cups and foam to wood. It helped me figure out how the sharp edge feels as it provides a space for grip. Inspired by the coral surface, the groove serves as a finger placement as well as a surface pattern.
Sketches
Final Prototypes - Process
The process involved crafting multiple shakers, refining their shape, and gaining insights into the manufacturing process.
Throughout, I tested the groove's interaction with light, exploring orientations that produced a smooth surface similar to the coral formations. The groove played a dual role, functioning as a handle for users and contributing to an aesthetically pleasing surface when shakers were placed together.
CAD Renderings
Stainless steel was chosen as the manufacturing material for this spice shaker due to its widespread use in kitchenware, matching with the aesthetics of a kitchen setting.
In the CAD model, specific features were incorporated: indents on the sides for accommodating circular glass, and a cap hole at the bottom designed with a subtle groove for user-friendly opening by pulling along the groove.
