AN IN-HOME WASTE REMOVAL SYSTEM
OBSERVED ISSUES Based on preliminary user research and discussion, we chose to pursue the management of waste in the home. Some of the topics that influenced our decision include: • Many households hide their trash
bins, even if the bins are attractive • Taking out the trash is an upsetting chore for fear of contamination, difficulty in removing bag • Little innovation in this field; consumers are unaware of the few advancements that have been made recently • Waste bins provide several important services such as concealing trash in a single location, protecting households from contamination, allowing for accumulation of waste in a convenient location so that users only need empty the bin as needed Despite the convenience offered by waste management within the home, many users look at it as an inconvenience.
• Small bin mounted to cupboard below sink. The bin is small, but user would rather empty the bin frequently to avoid the development of odor or “garbage juice.” • Uses recycled t-shirt bags from the grocery store or other small plastic bags. • This bin is concealed; user noted that she needed to install a locking mechanism onto cupboard to prevent young children from getting into the trash.
• The trash bin’s location restricts access to some storage in the pantry. Needs to be moved in order to gain access to shelving behind and to the side. • User noted that he didn’t need a lid because the bin was kept out of view. • The bin itself isn’t considered attractive by the user.
• The user complained that it didn’t match the decor of the house, but the color was better than other options she’d seen. • Lid is tall and unnecessary, but keeps the trash well concealed. • Doesn’t have cupboard or closet that could accommodate the large bin, but notes that having it in the open makes easier to access.
• User commented that this bin is too big for her needs, but it would be a hassle to empty smaller bin frequently. • This user remarked that the bag frequently gets stuck in the bin while trying to remove it • The pedal is very effective and closes quietly
CURRENT SCENARIO
Heavy bag carried away from body to avoid contact
Awkward position while transporting results in unnecessary physical strain
Carrying wet or unsanitary waste across room creates mental stress about contamination
Bag getting stuck in bin frustrates users and causes strain and occassionally tears bags.
DESIGN OBJECTIVE We observed three principal concerns during our preliminary research:
UNNECESSARY PHYSICAL STRAIN Users who use larger-sized liners complained that removing the full bags was uncomfortable and strenuous. Most users hold bag away from their body, creating stress in arms, back and shoulders.
SANITARY CONCERNS
Users associate their trash bins with germs and contamination, even if trash never actually touches the bin (nearly every user uses liners). Storing the bin in a cupboard or pantry helped users feel removed from the waste, and prevented pets and small children from getting into the trash.
MENTAL STRESSORS
Taking out the trash is a household chore that is frequently avoided in the hopes that someone else will do it. Users are embarrassed by their trash and empty/hide the bin when guests visit. Worries of the bag tearing or leaking, and children or pets getting into the trash were also frequently mentioned.
UNNECE SSARY PH YSIC AL S TR AIN
SANITARY CONCERNS
MENTAL S TRE SSORS
RESEARCH PLAN • FREQUENCY • AVOIDANCE • RECYCLING
We chose to investigate several topics in pursuit of a solution, including: • Frequency of emptying trash bin • Factors contributing to users’ desire • • • • • •
to conceal trash bins Methods for storing waste (bags, sizes, locations of bins) Methods for removing bags when full Materials and forms chosen by manufacturers Recycling routines and habits Obstacles encountered during bag removal process Evolution of a user’s routine as they age, or go through major life transitions
• • • •
ROUTINE • • • •
CHILDREN ELDERLY ADULTS TEENS
• • • •
WHO
STRENGTH SHAPE PLASTIC/MATERIAL RECYCLING MATERIALS
MATERIALS
HOME WASTE MANAGEMENT
LIFESPAN
• BAGS • BINS • FILLING A BAG
TYING ERGONOMICS SANITATION HEIGHT STRENGTH • WHAT IS SANITARY? LOCATION CARRY • WHY IS IT METHODS UNSANITARY? • OFFICE • BATHROOM • VISIBLE VS. CONCEALED • OUTSIDE • GARAGE
B
BANNER TALKING ABOUT HAS OR SOMETHING STUPID LET’S FACE IT , EVERYONE TRASH AFFECTS ALLTRASH OF US. THERE ISN’T ANY “ONE” USER WHEN
IT COMES TO WASTE REMOVAL. IT’S A PART OF ALL OUR LIVES, MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO TARGET A SPECIFIC DEMOGRAPHIC. DEVELOPING A TRASH RECEPTACLE THAT ADDRESSES THE NEEDS OF A VARIETY OF CONSUMERS IS OUR GOAL.
MEET TRISHA AGE: 34 PROFESSION: Executive Assistant FAVORITE GADGET: Garmin nüvi Trisha works full-time at a large marketing firm. She loves her job and excels at work, but wishes she could spend more time with her two young children. As a self-proclaimed “planner,” Trisha seeks out new products or tips that can offer more convenience in her busy, structured life. Any time that can be saved means more time with her kids.
3:45 pm Drops kids off at basketball practice
N O WAS TE
8:45 am Arrives to work
8:15 am Stops at local bagel shop for breakfast before dropping off kids at school
WAS T E C R E ATED/ M AN AG ED
2:45 pm Leaves work to pick up kids from school
11:30 am Lunch break
4:45 pm Picks up kids from practice
7:50 pm Give kids a bath, prepare them for 10:00 pm bed Goes to bed
6:30 pm Goes though kids’ backpacks, helps with homework 5:15 pm Prepares dinner
3:50 pm Cleans out car while kids are occupied 3:10 pm Mid-afternoon snack in car
8:30 pm Does light housework
T Y PIC AL DAY T IM E SP ENT
ACTUAL DESIRED
WORK
INTERACTION HOUSEWORK WITH KIDS
ERRANDS
EXERCISE
PREPARING MEALS
CURRENT PRODUCTS Revolutionizing the storage of waste in the kitchen has only been addressed in the last decade or two. The forms have begun to address the needs of the user in terms of storage & accessibility, rather than remaining a container that simply stores waste. The advancements and modifications made in addressing user needs are far behind those of other major kitchen components such as ovens, refrigerators and coffee makers. Only in the last decade have compartments, odor filters and technology been applied to trash bins.
Removable inner bucket for easy cleaning and bag removal
Precise sensor technology allows for touchless interaction
Pedal-operated lid allows for hands-free interaction Durable, cost-efficient materials
Although there have been several new developments in the aesthetics and form of waste bins, users still dread any interactions with their trash. The bins are difficult to clean, too bulky for the valuable kitchen space, and don’t fit in with the modern kitchen. The liners are also a problem for users; they slip into the bin while being used, full bags get stuck, tear, and are difficult to carry outside.
Lid locking mechanism to keep kids and pets out
Back wheels make the can easy to move
Odor filter prevents unwanted smells from escaping the bin
Compartments allow for recycling, or for separating other waste
IDEATION SMAPLE TITLE SKETCHES Our first round of ideation sketching was inspired from observations made during primary research. Noting the relevant and current information when evaluating different trash bins, we acquired a stronger understanding of the project space. We sought to develop a concept that was affordable while offering beneficial secondary functions. Cost would ultimately come down to materiality and manufacturing processes, but having a strong framework that allowed for a variety of modifications was necessary for functional innovation. Some ideas include grocery bag integration, sliding or under-cabinet systems, hooks, nesting modularity, clips, minimalism, organization, easy cleaning, and surface manipulation.
FIRST MODELS 1 Here, slim clips store newspapers, cardboard and flattened boxes to be recycled against exterior of bin. The clips occupied little extra space when not in use.
2 This model had lips on two sides to hold prevent bag from slipping inside bin while in use. The two cutouts on the opposing side allowed the user to get a good grip on the bag so that tying could be easier.
3 This slim bin was designed to be easily carried out of the home with the bag and contents inside. The shape also makes it easier to empty contents into larger City bin.
4 In addition to covering the contents of the bin, this bin’s lid also served as a handle and a locking mechanism for the wheels. While the lid is in a closed position, the wheels are locked; when opened, the wheels are released and the lid can be used to move the bin.
1
2
3
4
RESEARCH & RESPONSE Proposed concepts were continuously tested and validated through several research methods. Every decision affecting the design of the concept was tested with users for feedback. We reached out to members of our community for feedback on several prototypes. Contextual inquiries, cultural probes, focus groups and online questionnaires are a few of the research methods that we employed in order to refine our concepts.
CONTE X TUAL INQUIRIE S
CULTUR AL PROB
L BE S
Participants with a primary trash bin 91%
Participants without a primary trash bin 9%
Primary bin is VISIBLE in the room in which it is located 57%
Primary bin is CONCEALED in a pantry or a cupboard 34%
ONLINE QUE S TIONNAIRE S Bag gets stuck in bin
65%
Bag leaks Bag is too heavy to carry
Carrying bag is awkward
66% Of users worry that their trash bag will tear during transport
45% 43%
61%
FOCUS GROUP
MODEL REFINEMENT
1
2
3
4
EXERCISES IN FORM
Our final design was tested through several iterations and validated through user testing. The simplicity and model physique stayed quite consistent, but manufacturing and ergonomics were always considered. The different carrying methods, height of the bin, and lid functions were a few details finalized towards the end of the design process.
1 First form exploration based on preliminary sketch
2 Handle modification; materiality addressed, size was considered
3 Size, handle, color, bag-tying mechanism all modified; manufacturing process considered
4 Size, handle and color all modified
LID IS INJECTION MOLDED
PARTS ARE FRICTION WELDED ALONG THEIR SEAMS
SLOTS ARE PUNCHED BAG HOLES HANDLE CUTOUTS
VENTS
CLIP BACK CLIP HOLDS BAG AND IS SECURED BY THE LID
VENTS ELIMINATE VACUUM CREATED BY FULL GARBAGE BAGS
LIVING HINGE THIN FEATURE ON INJECTION MOLDED LID IS PIVOT POINT
SMAPLE TITLE
Bin carried near body; more control, easier to manage physically
Bin can contain messes without contaminating space
Struggle with bag is eliminated-simply tie the bag off with accommodating slots and forget about bags getting stuck
Dishes Washed. SMAPLE TITLE
Bathroom Scrubbed. Counters Cleaned. Trash Handled.
REFERENCES 1096 - 11 Gallon StepOn Wastebasket Reviews. (2013, December 19). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://www.sterilite.com/SelectProduct.html?id=506&view=0&picture=1&tab=Reviews&ProductCategory=211&ion=3 2-in-1 Recycler Reviews. (2015, February 15). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://www.rubbermaid.com/en-US/2-in-1-recycler#reviews1 Advancing Sustainable Materials Management: 2013 Fact Sheet. (2015). United States Environmental Protection Agency Solid Waste and Emergency Response, 22-22. Barr, S., Gilg, A., & Ford, N. (2001). A conceptual framework for understanding and analysing attitudes towards household waste management. Environment and Planning, 33(A 2001), 2025-2048.doi:10.1068/a33225 Barr, S., Ford, N., & Gilg, A. (2003). Attitudes towards Recycling Household Waste in Exeter, Devon: Quantitative and qualitative approaches. Local Environment, 8(4), 407-421. Bowen, R. (2013, July 30). Learn About Gap Analysis Methods: Which Are the Best? Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://www.brighthubpm.com/methods-strategies/75624-different-waysto-approach-a-gap-analysis/ 48L Butterfly Sensor Can Review. (2015, April 12). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://www.simplehuman.com/48-litre-butterfly-sensor-canfingerprint- proof-brushed-stainless-steel Hefty Decorative Trash Cans & Wastebaskets: Hefty Handy Hints and Reviews. (n.d.). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://www.hefty.com/products/trash-cans-and-home-storage/indoortrash-cans/decorative-wastebaskets/ Opdenakker, R. (2006, August 1). Advantages and Disadvantages of Four Interview Techniques in Qualitative Research | Opdenakker | Forum Qualitative Sozialforschung / Forum: Qualitative Social Research. Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://www.qualitativeresearch.net/index.php/fqs/article/view/175/391 Recycling Facts. (2014). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://recycleacrossamerica.org/recycling-facts Recycling Saves Money. (2011). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from http://valuestockguide.com/recycling-saves-money/ Totem Kitchen Bin | Intelligent Waste™ Reviews by Joseph. (2015, August 14). Retrieved December 12, 2015, from https:// www.josephjoseph.com/en-gb/product/totem