Hydropods
For this project, I focused on wheelchair-users, and their daily hand washing experiences. I was able to “create” a product that may not actually be feasible in real life, so I decided to create a hand-washing pod that is both portable and biodegradable- a Hydropod.
Project Description
Disabilities can be temporary or permanent. Some are intermittent and situational such as severe headaches or menstrual cramps. Something temporary might be a broken limb that takes three months to heal. Focus on a disability with which you have had some experience, directly observed someone, or have a strong interest. Also focus on a location or situation that you can encounter locally. Perhaps think first about physical or sensory limitations.
*Inclusive and Universal Design
What’s the problem?
The main issue with hand washing for wheelchair users is the sink. In general, a sink that is wheelchair accessible should be no higher than 34 in., no deeper than 6 in., and free of cabinets or pipes underneath.
How might we make sinks more accessible to individuals limited by wheelchairs?
Ideation
I wanted to create packaging for my Hydropods, and decided a bag was the best way to go.
Things I wanted to include on the label:
Uses for pod (for wheelchair users)
Natural ingredients included
100% Biodegradable (packaging recyclable)
I also realized that a portable hand washing pod would be useful in many situations without water or paper towels like hiking, camping, traveling, public transportation, impoverished communities, or for those who have difficulty washing hands (children, elderly, disabled).
I wanted to show these uses on the packaging as well.
Final Design
Hydropods are suitable for anyone regardless of age or disability. They don’t add plastic to the environment and they eliminate the use of the sink and the issues that come with standard sinks. Hydropods improve hygiene, can be easily transported, and have nourishing benefits from aloe vera and lavender extract.
