JAMES DYSON AWARD
Bud. is an ergonomic food container and utensil combo meant for the people with hand disabilities, such as arthritis, who struggle with food prep. Issues of dexterity can often exacerbate malnutrition in vulnerable groups, such as the elderly. This project was designed by my team (Jason Li, Emily Sciarrone, Jinzhi Ye) for the James Dyson Award Competition in Spring of 2022.
In our thumbnail sketches, we explored different kinds of handles, container types, and container and handle forms that can help people with hand disabilities prepare food and eat better.
The first design included wrist handles so that a person could hold it up without the use of their hands. It also included a removable tray.
The shape was inspired by Blobism and designed to incorporate the curvature of the side wrist handles into the overall shape as well as tesselate so the containers can be easily stackable.
In our final design form, we realized the wish bone shape was not very space efficient and redesigned the form to take advantage of the space between each container.
Many mobility aids feel overly medical, so it was important for Bud. to have a playful, inviting aesthetic. Inspired by 90s Blobism, we used bright colors and organic forms that also serve a functional role—curving to fit wrist handles and tessellating for easy stacking.
Side handles allow container to be held with just wrists.
Circular base allow containers to be stacked in any orientation.
With a variety of dishwasher-safe removable trays types, bud is adaptable to all types of cuisine and diets.
Rubberized bottom to provide stability and prevent slippage while being use.
Logo made out of thermo-chromatic material to indicate through shade if the container is safe to touch.
Multiple replaceable handle types for users to choose preferable handle type.
BUD.
Container
Handles
Removable Trays
features
utensils