Sanchari - Indian Caravan Concept - Special Edition Print

© Prajwal Venkatesh, 2022 Copyrights reserved to publisher Prajwal Venkatesh and Kerala State Institue of Design, Chandanthope, Kollam.

No part shall be reproduced in any format without prior written notice to either of aforementioned authorities.

First Copy Printed: 22-04-2022, at Shree Narayan Press, Kollam City.

PRAJWAL VENKATESH Author and Design UNNIMOHAN Associate Faculty, KSID PREMLAL Mentor, KSID

Design Synopsis Vacation is a personal and engaging experience. Post Covid 19 Lockdowns, person is eager to go out and have a proper vacation. Finding a proper hotel reservation, vehicles, government rules, sanitization and other necessary arrangements has hindered in every stage of planning and enjoying a vacation smoothly.

Caravan tourism is new rising trend by many State Tourism departments in India. A house on wheels concept, where three main aspects of Roti, Kapada and Makahan, that is Food, Clothing and Shelter, are covered inclusively. Spear heading in this vision is young and dynamic minister from Maharashtra, who successfully launched a caravan rental service, and more than 100 + user reviews has shown evidence, caravan tourism in Maharashtra is going to be increased in coming years.

My design project caters to young adults, persons working in Tier 1 and 2 cities, looking for small trips or weekend getaways. Design solution would enhance the experience of Caravan Tourism for the year 2025, beyond imaginations, by providing user centric, functional, ergonomic and standardised facilities. My Caravan, will give the person, lifelong memorable vacation and redefining the New and Engaging mode of CARVAN TOURISM.

1. Introduction 2. The Spark of Opportunity – Problem area Identifications 3. Surfing the Internet, Digging the Pages, Travelling – Research 4. Lets Talk !! – Survey & User Study 5. Insights & Design Directions

Contents

6. Design Brief 7. E x þ Ł Ø я a t ¡ Ѳ л § – Getting the Specifics 8. Ide@tions 9. Spirit of Design – Iterations & Final Concepts 10. “Sanchari” – Rendering & Finishing

Chatrapathi Shivaji Maharaj Railway Terminus illuminated for New Years’s Eve, Mumbai, Photo Source: Go Ibibo

01

01 Introduction Who am I ?

“ Always leave a place better

Figure 1: Kerala State Institute of Design,

than you found it.”

view showing the Product Design Department

Being a designer, often I think is the whole purpose and need of a

my college in semester 3 of post graduation. This course is part of our

designer role to do. Learnt in one of my english stories during school.

curriculam. Kerala State Institute of Design is State Governement

I don’t really remember anything of the story, but quote was etched

established design college, based on the curriculam of National Institute

in my memory still now.

of Design (NID) and

Namaste, I am Prajwal Venkatesh, a life long learner in the field of

works in this book, I intend to give back to my college, my learnings and

Product Design. This book is a report and documentry journal of my

understandings, a timeless inspiration of works.

Design Project course carried out in month of March - April, 2022 at

Indian Institue of Technologies (IIT). Through my

Studying here, itself is an experience and a blessing in

A house on wheels concept, where three main aspects of

itself. Coming back to the project, which I did over here

Roti, Kapada and Makahan, viz. Food, Clothing and Shelter,

is an extension of my giving back to soceity, through my

are covered inclusively. Spear heading in this vision is Young

works, I give back to my college my learnings of design

and Dynamic minister from Maharashtra, who successfully

and experience through this

launched a caravan rental service, and nearly 1000+ user

book, which I intend to be

an timeless inspiration.

reviews has shown evidence, caravan tourism in Maharashtra is going to be increased in coming years.

Why this Project?

Vacation is a personal and engaging experience. Post

My design project caters to young adults, persons working

Covid 19 Lockdowns, person is eager to go out and have

in Tier 1 and 2 cities, looking for small trips or weekend

a proper vacation. Finding a proper hotel reservation,

getaways. Design solution would enhance the experience

vehicles, government rules, sanitization and other

of Caravan Tourism for the year 2025, beyond imaginations,

necessary arrangements has hindered in

by providing user centric, functional, ergonomic and

every stage

of planning and enjoying a vacation smoothly. Caravan

standardised facilities. My Caravan, will give the person,

tourism is new rising trend by many State Tourism

lifelong memorable vacation and redefining the New and

departments in India.

Engaging mode of CARVAN TOURISM.

Where it all Started Our family is very keen on travelling. We tour a lot and on different

As we gained more experience and we pushed our limits and travelled

modes of vehicles. Taking trains and flights for reaching our

further, into the interiors of Maharashtra. This is when new problems came

destination and there after by private local tours and travels small

into picture: food, clothing and most importantly Shelter.

vehicles. We happen to cover most parts of India. From Srinagar to Indira Point in the Andamans. We are so synchronised in our packing

On our inital trial we went to see temple in Rathnagiri, on a scenic ghat

our lugguage bags that we can correctly judge what number of bags

roads along side the prestine Arabian sea. On the way we had to take

we will have when come back from our trips. Things all changed, once

frequent breaks for petrol, bathroom breaks, snacks and for easing muscle

we got our own Tata Nano.

strains as the car is very small compared to other ergonomic cars.

Some times we decided to decided to sleep, but to and far, not even a

Owning our own four wheeler, changed many things, and the first

single, rooms nor a human being is seen. Some how we made it to our pre

most dramatic change was luggage carrying capacity. We could carry

booked room in Rathnagiri in mid night at 2 am.

more. But then it also created new diffculties, as we started to move around. Our needs and desires changed drastically.

Stated above is one such experience of many adventures went by and experienced. Me and brother are passionate driving our Tata Nano, along

We stay in Mumbai, most prime and crowded city of Maharashtra

with our Parents, on Long Drives. Having travelled more than 50,000 kms

state. Weekends and other vacation holidays was the only key reason

in Nano, and 10,000 kms exclusively exploring new places in Maharashtra

to escape the hustle of maddeing city. As now the newest member of

and Karnataka we share one thing for sure, we felt and experienced the

family, Tata Nano, was had its 3rd service, we took to explore Mumbai

pain points of tourism on four wheels, hurdles by far the most. We needed

and later to nearby places like Lonavala and Pune.

something which we could not figure out.

Figure 2: From left to right. 2a - Travel photos of our tours - Tribal Mask collection from Shillong Don Bosco Museum, during our family tour. 2b - Mini Tirupati on out skirts of Pune and 2 c - Ghat roads on the way to Nashik during Monsoon.

Marine Drive, Mumbai, Source: India Today Magazine

02

02

Going on a relaxing tour is what is really reuired but the task to achieve them is really painful process. Just to note a few are planning the itenary,

The Spark of Opportunity Problem Area Identification

booking confirmed hotel rooms in advance, see limited tourist spots, get adjusted to the Local Food, Follow Strict Time Schedules, etc. And once you reach your destination, its a race against time. Some people do achieve this feat, but majority of people have limited time. as they want to go back to their work. Our family was no extraordinary, we also often had to skip many tourist spots and always wanted that one extra day, to get

“Change” does not imply a temporary transition from one state to another, the idea of being has to be replaced by the notion of becoming.”

- The Change Book

more glimpse of the place.

The academics in our course required an oppunrtunity gap to be identified.

The pain points which we felt while travelling, was presented to our mentors. It was not before getting rejected atleast five of the other topics and area of project, this was approved over two days of discussion.

Design it self has been there from long time. What has changed is the

Comfortable travel for long distance, was identified as a problem area

approch of problem identification and solving them new and novel

was a sure shot sighting where development need to happen, that to

ideas and methods. As time moved constantly, people engaged in

specially for India and Indian people. After a brief studying, there seemed

different ways of consuming time. Travelling being the same, but the

a solution readily available and that was Caravan Tourism, but it was for

way people travelled became different. New inventions and newer

people living abroad and was irrevalant in India. Seizing this, oppurtunity

business was invented and established specially during 19th century.

gap, I proposed my project topic for this design project.

To help people have better experience in Vacation, Travel or Tours. _ Mission Statement for my Design Project

Vision A Made in India “House on Wheels” Concept

Ellora Rock Cut Caves, Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Source: NDTV

03

03

So knowing the history of caravans was the best starting point for my secondry research. Research based on what is already there in the present

Surfing the Internet, Digging the Pages, Travelling Research

and used by different people around the world. And as everything has a start, there is no better way to go throught the history of caravans.

Secondary Research The earliest known documented term Caravan is from Marcopolo, the legendary traveller. Seen in the image in the next page is an illustration by him. Caravan refers to the people who did trading from China and Europe

“Research is formalised curiosity.

It is poking and prying with purpose.”

on the Silk Route. Their camels and horses were loaded with luggage and other necessary items, and travelled in groups for safety. During night they would halt and create shelters and cook their won food. This later had inspired Dr. William, from UK for “The Wander”, the first vehicle mounted

Caravans has been there from avery long time, but its presence in

caravan in the year 1880. Seen in next pages is the timeline of caravans.

Indian context is never known. We can trace back them to a mere counting number that too because the film industry was using them for their actor and actress as a dressing room on wheels. Though it

Figure 3 opposite page: The earliest known word

may have started from there, still its presence for general public is

Caravan refers to tradsmen travelling on the Silk Route

largely uncommon.

Figure 4: The Wanderer, first recorded data of Wheel based Caravan drawn by horses, used by Dr. William for his lesiure travel.

Figure 5: Romanian gypsies, in 1900’s who used to travel togehter and stayed in wooden caravans and later inspried for modern day caravans.

Figure 6: With start of industrial revolution in 1920’s, people advanced with primitive rubbersied wheels to be drawn by cars.

Figure 7: 1950’s – Car industry started to notice and experiment the needs, resulting in creation of Motor Homes

Figure 8: 1980’s – American AirStreams & Tear Drops, were the most iconic caravan which are still in use, as industry entered into making caravans with application of scientific principles like air streaming.

Figure 9: 2000’s – Dedicated Car manufacturing, Government Regulations and Rental services emerged.

Caravan Style Trends Dutch VW Importer, Ben Pon Sr., Sketched the initial idea, in 1946, for an off road, business leisure vehicle. It would use the discarded frame of Platten Vagen, a motorised trolley, used to transport heavy machines and equipment’s of World War 2 vehicles in Factories. The initial exploartion was done of Type 2 chassis, and the styles were named based on generations as per company. We have T1 to T6 and in productions are T5, T6 and T7 (2018 - onwards). There generations are defined from significant changes in technology, methods of manufacturing and changing taste of people.

Figure 10: Above - Notes from Ben Pol, showcased at VW Museum

Figure 11: Next Page - The first industry designed lesiure vehicle, T2 caravan

Figure 12: Variations of T2 type Volkswagen caravan styles over the years Figure 13: Next Page - VW - the past and the future.

Looking into the transformations Youtube offers a diverse and indepth ideas of caravans and also the experiences of the people who often share their entire journey of the Caravan Life. As my project is new to India, all my learnings are based from the inputs of the field experts in this method of living a life in Caravans. Here are few interesting, important and necessary screen captures from nearly 50+ hours of youtube devotion!! They all have influnced and helped me in deriving at my end product - The MTDC Sanchari, which I refer to as of now while at the making the project.

In the figures of the following pages - Before and After Transformations of interiors of Van. - Van Life video experiences for User Study.

- Caravans in India.

- People using Caravans in India.

- Caravan Tourism & impact in India & Maharashtra.

- Interesting Caravan Ideas & Concepts.

- Caravans of the future.

Caravan Life - America & Europe - Prevalent in young adults.

- Most of people are in various creative fields like music, film making, tatoo artists, etc.

- Government encashed this trend by creating Caravan Tourism.

- Caravan Tourism has also generated many revenue to countries.

- Creation of Caravan & Eco Parks, provides employment to many people.

- It is a way of life, for low income people.

- Young adults in the age group of 25 yrs to 45 yrs.

Photos showing transformations of caravans by field Experts - People who stay in caravans

Learnings from initial videos

Must Watch Youtube Channels for Caravans Max & Lee

- Youtube C hannel Guidance on building Car avans with beauti ful videos of Mexico and other pl aces.

- Young adults in the age group of 25 yrs to 45 yrs.

- People are in various creative fields like music, film making, tatoo artists, etc.

- Government encashed this by creating, a trend, #caravan-tourism - Caravan Tourism has also generated many revenue to countries, directly/ indirectly.

- It is a way of life, for low income people, travellers and adventure seekers.

- Regular office going person try these new trend of Caravan Tourism during weekend or 1-2 week trips, mostly near cities - Creation of Caravan Parks (near cities) & Eco Parks (treks/ forests), provides employment to many people.

l

Coupy Channe

n, is main concer where space His . ls ve tra From Japan, s hi l caravan and shows a smal azing to see. nocence is am in d an talking Jits into the Sunset By far most visually pleasing and amazing storyline. One of the person is Cinematographer and is a must watch.

Ganpatiphule Temple & Beach, Rathnagiri, Maharashtra. Source: Rathnagiri Tourism

04

04

Google one of the most go to place for anyone to search for their needs.

Google analyse and use those searches for marketing, and other analytics

Lets Talk !!

User Study & Survey

purpose. Google Trends is an AI based Analytics software which analyse those searches and formulates a graph based on searched terms and place and time. This is used for knowing two particular terms “tourism” and “Caravan” in India and in timeline of past 2 years.

Primary Research The results showed that people are indeed searching for caravans as way

“A good life is collection of happy memories.”

of vacation, in and around major cities. The 2 dips in the graph, refer the

- The Change Book

Figure 15, adjoing page, are when the lockdowns were imposed in India and as of now there is increase in the trend in tourism in India.

When people travel to places they keep clicking pictures, many of them. They want to create a memory of place so that they can cheerish that moment in later years to come. The youtube has a vast collection of user experiences and some of them have been noted here.

Internet also has tools which help in knowing the people needs and their behaviour patterns. AI, artificial intelligence is extensively used by some compaines which help in design projects like this one.

The search for tourism was considering timeline from 1st Jan 2019 to 31st March 2022. This timeline was choose so as see the effects of lockdowns on people’s behaviour. There is sudden dip after the first lockdown and later graph rose, stating that people started to search for tourism options, but later due to 2nd lockdown, there is 2nd dip. As of now there is steady sharp rise in the graph suggesting that tourism is going to rise in near future.

“Predicting the future is not magic, www.trends.google.co.in

it’s artificial intelligence.” _

Figure 14: Screenshot of Google Trends Website

Dave Waters, AI expert & founder

and its results, for word “tourism” in India.

Coursera, a online learing paltform.

Also Asked A fun in AI, type of website, meant for teaching the newbies of taste of AI, has nearly precise answers, but the company itself says that the results are meant to be used as a supporting data and not to total rely on the day=ta generated as it is still in beta testing stage.

Figure 15:Above - Screenshot of AnswerThePublic website

Figure 16 a, b, c - Adjoining pages and following pages - Results of various keywords searched by people in India and their ways of thinking analysed visually and depicted through word forms.

AnswerthePublic

Note: The central word is the key word, to which the questions are realted,

Another great insights tool known for generating very strong filtered

is displayed around forming a circular appearance. The most searched or

data and services utilised by many industries. It takes the input

relavant query is only displayed here by the website.

as words, along with the time and place. It delivers the answers in format of creative visulisations.

Figure 16 a

Figure 16 b

Figaure 16 c

User Studies in detail Many private companies and community groups have shared their experiences through internet – blogs, books, short movies, clubs, etc.

It also shares the pain points, self help guides and Do-It-Yourself tips in making caravan life a better experience. Shared below are few of the screen grabs of the same.

Figure 17: Jits into the Sunset, cinematographer by profession, and passinate to travel, they have converted their from an old caravan which was purchased in 1980’s. They have the best tips for making caravans also cover briallant scenic views of Ireland and Swiss Alps.

Figure 18: Max & Lee, Travelling in South America. Shares that Every new t=route they take teaches them about life and how small time is to enjoy . They made total of 2 caravans and teach others by their youtube channel, by same name. Like to take pet dog, Jacko with them

Figure 19:Caravan Bharath - is a youtube channel from Mr. Varun, and ex army man. He had created his own tempo traveller caravan and since then has inspired many people to create their own caravan.

He holds regular online doubt clearing sessoions. Seen here is interaction with Mr. Vikram, (person with yellow stripes shirt). He shows many innovative and materials which he has in his Tata Safari caravan, like inflatable 20 ltr bottle, collapsable sink and bucket, etc. They travel alomost every ocassion festivals and wife works onlie from camps. .

Some Evidence Found

Where in India?

1. Indian people are starting to realise the potential of Caravans

Quick a weekend trip/ break /vacation/ tour is needed, but good road

2. Car and Coach Manufactures are not yet convinced to create

drives are near main cities in India like Mumbai, Pune, Hyderabad, Kolkata,

caravans in India, as they need support from Government and people.

Delhi, etc.

3. Government lack the rules necessary for establishing caravan parks and they can not figure out how Indian people utilise the services.

Only very few State Government tourism department has caravan

4. Making a caravan is a costly affair as it has special fittings.

touring options recently introduced like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Kerala, Karnataka and Mahasrashtra.

Learnings till Now We have

Maharashtra State Tourism Development (MTDC), has something

- Ideas & Experience of how we travel.

Special….! They have tied up with a private agency Motohom Caravans

- House on Wheels Concept

establised in 2017, is recognised as Government of India startup venture,

- Government to regulate & help

with one and only official caravan vendor for Maharashtra state. It has two

people by providing suitable facilities.

options, one luxury bus, with has driver and assistant and a self drive SUV, which says it is good for 4 persons. But some of the users said that they

We need to

felt difficult to accomodate 4 persons and the biggest disadvantage was

- Travel in India

that there was no bathroom or toilet in the smaller caravan.

- Explore the nature more closely

Hence this was the perfect scope for launching my caravan, which would

- Relax and Enjoy with our loved ones

be comfortable for 4 people with a bathroom facility.

Figure 20:Caravans from Motohom, a private company tied with MTDC, Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation for promoting Caravan Tourism in State.

What is missing in MTDC ?

Vehicle Competitors in India against Smaller Caravan

- MTDC has collaborated with Motohom, a bus coach customizers

Enquiry for vehicle and its details was done by visiting vehicle company

company.

- Motohom is the main in-charge of Caravan Tourism and maintains the transactions and other details.

websites, calling in person to showrooms of some vehicles and seeing, understanding them physically, by visiting to car showrooms near our college. Table below shows necessary comparisons - rating of vehicle

- SUV Caravan is comfortable for 2 persons only. 2 people sleep above

(column 1) by Autocar, affordibility for driving license (2), Volume of

the caravan, which is not safe and might get cold at times. People

cargo space (3). Many bigger vehicles like Tempo Traveller requires Light

who sleep inside the vehicle feel very fitted in a box.

Commercial Vehicle, but Tata Wiger’s 10 Seater (9 +1) is made under LMV

- Bus Caravan follows a limited routes as it can not driven in many

model and catergory, hence person holding a LMV (Light Motor Vehicle)

routes. Rs 21,000 per day may not be affordable for everyone.

can easily drive. This is required while booking a caravan for rental services.

- Freedom to move about freely, self driving with family.

- No toilet or bathrooms in the smaller caravan.

My Opportunity Gap !!

MTDC Bus Caravan > MID SIZED CARAVAN > MTDC Small Caravan

Make

1

2

3

Winger 2021

Tata

7/10

LMV

10 m3

Tempo Traveller 2021

Force

NA

LCV

8 m3

Innova

Toyota

8/10

LMV

NA

Eeco

Suzuki

4/10

LMV

2.5 m3

Mahindra

8/ 10

LMV

NA

Marrazo

Vehicle Benchmarking Tata Winger – 2021 Model has a Boxy manufacturing, having close resemblence to T5 to T7 models of Volkswagen as seen abroad and has spacious interiors. Nearly 10 cubic meters volume is sufficient for a small home fit-outs. Suitable for a Family of 4, and a bathroom/ Toilet space.

Equipped with BS6 Engine, and easy for transition from SUV or regular cars to new van and Tata is amoung trusted names in India, since long time. Tata being the title sponsor in IPL, for next two years shows its inclination towards youngsters and sports, who can become potential customers for caravan tourism.

Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Between Maharashtra and Goa Border. Source: Veena World

05

05

- Seats while in moving need to be safe and Secure

Insights

- Cooking time to be least time to relax and enjoy nature

“We are surrounded by data, but starved for insights.”

- Adjustability at all times

- Jay Baer, marketing and customer experience expert.

- Eagerness to see and experience unknown journey - Need of security camera and small screen for the same

- They would first try rental services and then buy for them self - No Personal Space

- Good for 2 to 3 weeks at Max - Caravan trip is still niche unexplored area

One of the crucial step of design is gathering deep understanding

- Self repairing of common parts should be known

of the user, context and time. By doing the collection of data and

- No proper instructions for discharge of wastewater

informations, I have listed key insights below.

- Be Ready for unknown events like vehicle breakdowns

- Need of seeing stars

- Complete exhaustion of health after 6 to 8 weeks working personal

- TV not really required

- Special subsidy in government Tax at toll Gates/ parking sites

- Aeroplane type experience

- Limited Luggage can be carried, but comparatively more from regular

- Noise proof and light proof

trips and vacations

- Sleep with more space openly

- Good bathroom is must

- Proper bathroom and WC required

- Be ready for sudden climate changes

- Personal headphone jack at the seat

- Comfortable to take pets along with them

- Feeling of being close with the nature

- You may find many new insects while camping

- Full comfortability for open bathroom or kitchen

- Must required is 1st aid kits & fire extinguishers

As my project was tending to a rental service, there was a large

- Good storage space for Indian home made Masalas & Spices

group of people I would have to take into consideration. But due

- Communication requirements like GPS, Internet, Mobile Signal or Local

to time limitations of the academic course, this entire project is of

Guides to be good

learning the design process along with implementation of technical

- Need of Caravan Parks is must at least in tourist spots

representation, interaction design, form studies and prototying of the

- Access to easy and fast booking and MTDC hotel

3rd semester and a balanced approach for my creativity to be applied

- Good quality sleep is required once in 3 days like in hotel room

. So here are the 3 different insights which had come up with during discussion with mentors -

Design Directions

1. Design for a young newly married couple going on a honeymoon

Selecting of key insights to work for project was done after discussing

vacation for 2 to 3 weeks.

with peers who thought some points are irrevalent to Indian context

2. Design for a family of 4 people for one week break.

and some are worth adding to project. Based on this and using affinity

3. Design for a family of 4 with 1 pet for 2 to 3 weeks trip along the

mapping, grouping the collected data, the final insight was arrived which

coastal road of the Maharashtra.

gave multiple design directions. Resntal service can be a professional,

After discussing with friends and colleague at my college KSID, I felt

a weekender, tourister with grandparents, families with pets, young

i did not have proper access to newly married couple and better not

couple, newly married couple, groups of yongsters from professional

disturb any of them. And any ways, why would a couple miss a chance

degree college, a office team going for party, many more assumptions was

to go aborad when compared to caravan. Tour was also not choosen

possible. India being a multi cultural and inter mixed crowd, its difficult

as I have no access to data from user who has travelled in my study

to pin point one particular taste, but overall my design output would need

area. Hence the 2nd insight was choosen with slight modifications.

to have a neutral design with a dash of creativity in terms of ease of use, functionality and comfortability.

Pratapgad Fort, Raigad District, Maharashtra. Source: iStock

06

06 Design Brief Enhancing User Experience, of MTDC Caravan Rental service,

and dynamic minister from Maharashtra, who became acting minister for

by designing, mid sized vehicle for comfortable vacation for

tourism in December 2020, and successfully launched Caravan Tourism

family of 4 people, staying

along with Rules and Regulations in April 2021. Also applied caravan

in Tier 1 & Tier 2 cities and want

to go for a short vacation, in the year 2025.

Vacation is a personal and engaging experience. Post Covid 19

rental service, and more than 100 + user reviews has shown evidence, caravan tourism in Maharashtra is going to be increased in coming years.

Lockdowns, person is eager to go out and have a proper vacation.

My design project caters to young adults, persons working in Tier 1 and

Finding a proper hotel reservation, vehicles, government rules,

2 cities, looking for small trips or weekend getaways. Design solution

sanitization and other necessary arrangements has hindered in every

would enhance the experience of Caravan Tourism for the year 2025,

stage of planning and enjoying a vacation smoothly.

beyond imaginations, by providing user centric, functional, ergonomic and standardised facilities. My Caravan, will give the person, lifelong

Caravan tourism is new rising trend by many State Tourism

memorable vacation and redefining the New and Engaging mode of

departments in India. A house on wheels concept, where three main

CARVAN TOURISM specially for young adults.

aspects of Roti, Kapada and Makahan, that is Food, Clothing and Shelter, are covered inclusively. Spear heading in this vision is young

Enhancing User Experience, of MTDC Caravan Rental service, by designing, mid sized vehicle for comfortable vacation for family of 4 people, staying in Tier 1 & Tier 2 cities and need to go for a short vacation, in the year 2025.

Cavensite, a rare mineral is found abundantly in Wagholi in Pune Disctrict. It is only found only in this place in the whole world, has inspired the wheels and book colour theme.

07

Interaction Zone

07

This includes the seating arrangement for making people more engaged and comfortable through closeness, when on long drives.

ԐӼþŁØяat¡Ѳл§

Comfortability Zone This Zone is about camping experience made comfortable. Focus is on

“I fear not the man who has practiced 10,000 kicks once, but I fear the man who has practiced one kick 10,000 times.”

- Bruce Lee, Martial Art Expert & Actor Bruce Lee inspires with his every thought. of the practise one makes.

It can readily be applied on terms that kicks being the explorations

Sleeping in comfortable and if possible sleeping during travel.

Service Zone Focus on Kitchen and cooking area, Bathroom and Toilet facility with almost no compromise in functionality. It refers to private space for a person. Function of service to be used atmost by 2 persons in one time.

and exploring not in one direction but in multi dimensional approach.

I have looked into different aspects which a person may require - in

Comfort Zone

terms of comfortability.

The main aspects of the Caravan was restricted to zoning as learnt way back in my Civil Engineering. Caravan was demarked as 3 main zones - Interaction Zone, Comfortablity Zone and Service Zone.

Interaction Zone

Service Zone

Analogical Explorations

Observational Explorations

There are already existing technology and situations where

- Day to Day activities

people have adjusted into small comfortable homes. Here

- Discussion with friends

are some examples which gave ideas for a better layout of

- Personal Travel Experiences from

caravan which can be adopted.

- Indian Trains - Yacht Homes

myself and my family and with friends - Special occasions creates special needs, like a pilgrimage or boating trips

- Boat Caravans

These are the activities which we do on regular days and

- Sleepers Buses

how we experience comfort at personal levels in all the

- Ships & Submarines

aspects of life.

- Pod Hotels & Rooms - Small Houses of Japan

Camping activites like Washing clothes, getting cold water, hot air during the winter seasons, leakage due

These are catering to the sleep and living conditions in a small

to fixtures, reading lights, mosquitos and insect safety,

space. Along with the movablitity in many situations.

cooking needs and its related activites, movement of

I felt there is a need for movement inside a closed space like

people, placement products with its usage during the

Boat caravans and Yacht are nearly suitable for my condition

day, activites based of type of people and their activites

of Road Caravans. Where else pod hotels and Submarine

they would do specially like young couple, etc and many

learned about the sleeping arrangements. From Indian

more things was observed throughly and was considered

Railways I learnt about the materials used for general public

for design. The design should inspire a child to dream big.

furnishing like curtains and seat coverings.

Analogical Explorations

Designing For Purpose

There are already existing technology and situations

1. Vehicle to accommodate 4 people comfortably

where people have adjusted into small comfortable

2. To be implemented by Maharashtra Government,

homes. Here are some examples which gave ideas for a better layout of caravan which can be adopted.

- Indian Trains - Yacht Homes - Boat Caravans - Sleepers Buses - Ships & Submarines - Pod Hotels & Rooms - Small Houses of Japan These are catering to the sleep and living conditions in a small space. Along with the movablitity in many situations.

I felt there is a need for movement inside a closed space like Boat caravans and Yacht are nearly suitable for my condition of Road Caravans. Where else pod hotels and Submarine learned about the sleeping arrangements.

From Indian Railways I learnt about the materials used for general public furnishing like curtains and seat coverings.

as they are leading and applying Caravan Tourism in India 3. Assumption – Government is having adequate facilities, for Caravan Tourism, in the near future, say 2025 4. Mid Size Vehicle for comfortable Driving based on chassis of Tata Winger

Maharashtra - People Peope who major settlement in Mumbai & Pune are from rural and remote parts of Maharshtra. Travelling also brings wth it this traditional ways of travelling. But in cities there is mainly mixed type of crowd, from all aspects of life and difference places. They are people who would like to travel light most of times, with minimal or necessary luggage preferrably one or two bags.

Figure 21: Board showcasing Maharashtra people

Figure 23 & 24:

Ganjifa Cards Traditional Playing Cards of 16th Century, Sawantwadi Craft, Maharashtra. This one particular craft is almost unheard of.

Maharashtra is known for many crafts specially Warli and Kholapuri crafts. Bidriware is also made aware after it found market in Amazon.

But this craft of intricate art works on piece of laqured wood disc, is complex and the art is loosing its charm. Recently it was showcased

in London museum where it was highle encopuraged and made news.

“It will be a genuine case of shame if we remain mere spectators while great belongings of cultural heritage gradually go the way of extinction. In truth, they never die— neither should they. A longestablished pastime is not just some instrument of spending the idle hours; they are in actual fact an affluent and legitimate appearance of culture and ethnicity. Ganjifa cards are a kind corresponding

to this trend. They are the conventional playing cards of Central

cave works seen in India. Hence taking Ganjifa cards as inspiration justifies

and South Asia whose history is wearing a veil of haze.” This was

for my design project. Ganjifa cards are deck of 120 cards, circular or oval.

recoreded in international article, From Courtly Craze to Coasters: A

The original cards was believed to be invented in 16th century. They were

Catastrophic Chronicle of Ganjifa Cards by Saptarshi Roy, Arindam

played for days together as there was no betting or any other binding

Ganguly, lecturers researching in lost traditions of India. It was

rules. Later when the Mughals and Persians invaded they manipulated

published in Thespian Magazine, Vol 4, Issue 1, 2016 ISSN 2321 -

with betting and other new rules,

4805 September – October 2016.

Today people in Sawantwadi are struggling hard to save this art work by After noting the lost essence of this craft, I really felt the missing

creating Ganjifa training schools. This art work is recognised in one of

emotions to create a contribution to enhance this craft through this

London Museum and and one set was exclusively created to be kept in

design project of mine. But at the same time the caravan has to be

their museum. Other game cards were also presented.

very subtle with minimal or no inclination to any religion. It was really tough choice to make. Thanks to my mentor, who said that yes

The theme of the game was based purely on 120 deities. 10 cards were

challaneges like these should be take, but only on a justified manner.

popular set. This was 10 avatars of Lord Vishnu, which were painted with deity form, In this 10 forms almost all the forms are explored or throughly

Looking back at the many of the photos of Maharashtra tourism, there

documented, except for the 10th Avatar, that is Lord Kalki. Whcih intend

seems to be a having a strong connection of culture and people of

to study and understand. Maharashtra is also land of many temples,

state, this is seen in their celebration of various festivals of Ganesha

mosques, churches, etc. Many trips of Astha Vinayak, Jyothir Ling yatra,

Chathurthi and Holi, which is celebrated by all people irrespective of

Ajantha Ellora trips, Shidi Nashik, Trimabkeshwar Trips are exclusivly done

which religion. Also the Maharashtra Tourism Department has logo of

by road, may be caravan become an highlight for such trip, The Ganjifa

Trideva Shiva, from the Elephanta Caves, one of the ancient

cards has been documented in IIT Bombay and many other institutes.

Designing For People

“It can be game changer, in the tourism

Five people who were keen travellers on road were asked to share their

department. Ready to pay for comfortability.”

experiences, through video calls and their experiences of road travelling.

Mr. Sundram, 29 yrs, is Market Development

Also the idea of caravan was explained as seen in abroad and wheather

Manager,

they would utlised it or not and what would be important for Indian

managing pan India takes on 3 to 4 weeks of

conditions. Here is what they said.

long drive vacations throughout India.

VIP Shaddi.com, looking and

“This will perfectly pair with my Bullet.”

Avid traveller on Royal Enfield Bullet, would take rest after a long bike rides. The caravan and bike could be good complimenting experience.

“Good open space for Cooking, with ample storage of water.” Says Mrs Shashikala V, 55 yrs, home maker from Mumbai and who goes on yearly travel with her family.

Vishal S, 28 yrs, Sr. Manager, Getir, Berlin.

“Large open windows will be a huge

“I will be your first client.” Ms Umiyal, 24 yrs

welcome. And parking in tourist spaces

post

always tricky, this type of vehicle should

Passionate about Caravans and has been

have dedicated place.”

helping me with her insights of Caravans

Prof Nimbalkar, 38 yrs, Asst Prof, PREC, Loni

throughout this project. She has also

Loves long drives into Nature and remote

suggested many youtube channels.

parts of State.

graduate

Design

Student,

KSID,

An Hypothetical Persona

time and creates an illustionary dream world.

Mr. Raunak Kumar, 35 yrs from Mumbai is very fond of travelling

Beast Mode - Once party hard, mood is set often people come out their

with his family. He would like to travel on weekends or during

creative beast mode of various dressing and entire different avatar.

festive vacation breaks, in and around Maharashtra by road. He is accompanied by wife, 29 yrs, and 2 kids, aged 9 yrs and 5 yrs. Also

Theme based on Religion

they have a pet dog which they would like to take with them for tour.

Narshima Avatar - It is close relation to the beast mode above. Only factor

Mr. Raunak likes to have attitude of Work hard and party Harder. He

is beast is here, potrayed as helping human kind, and though visually

is religious as per family traditions. He hails from Solapur district and

appear scary, but was humble at heart by helping a child.

now currently working in construction industry.

Kalki Avatar - Its the last avatar, which is yet to take birth. Most books and Based on above description keywords were noted and visuliased in

scripts written are saying its mysterious and most poweful creation which

the necxt page. In the following pages the mood boards are shown.

human kind will ever see.

Main themes of the mood board was derived, through discussion with friends and mentors.

Theme based on time Retro - When we travel, most of times we recollect the past memories, this is based on that nostalgic and retro feeling.

Figure 25: Keyword map for Maharashtra Tourism in caravans

Futuristic - As for future of caravan in India and abroad.

Theme board based on Party Theme Psycadellic - It is the moment which makes you forget the present

Figure 26 a to 26 f, in next pages, mood boards based various on themes

Beast - Clever | Aggressive | Strong

Process of Design An outline of Tata Winger was made on illustrator with keeping the original picture as reference. The reference was taken from the Tata Winger website. Digital tape drawing, of the front view, side view and plan view was carried out. All these three were scaled to 1:12 for mockup or prototype making. Another size of 1:20 was taken for A4 sketching and exploration of ideas based on themes.

Two parallel processes As my mentors were specilised in two different fields, functionality

Photo 1: Body Stroming to demonstrate the idea of a layout of caravan

and styling, the layout of the caravan was first decided and later along with layout the final styling was carried out.

Ideations for Layout Layout was planned based on the insights discussed previously. It was focused on providing comfortability and ease of access for the person doing any activity.

A body stroming was carried out in the early stages of project where pupose of the experiment was to gather the inputs from the group of people, to understand the concepts of caravan and to get vague idea of existing layout which would work or not in Indian scenerio.

Photo 2: Taking feedback from the group

Kitchen Interaction Zone

Beds Above Washroom

Photo 3: Layout was decided after 4 other layouts were found not so interactive and not very engaging.

Photo 4: Total of 3 different groups were asked for their views and what they felt of the layout set out in our workshop.

The interactive zone was so effetive, that even after completion of survey they sat there for 30 minutes more, wtih out even realising.

Based on the insights of the body stroming layout sketching was done The zoning was considered as per activity one would carry out during travelling and during camping. As there was no vehicle was available for actual measurements, the layout dimesions were done using the measurements from the original website. The dimensions of the 9 + 1, seater tourist vehicle, 2021 Model, were as follows

External Length - 4940 mm External Width - 1905 mm External Height - 2460 mm

Interal Length - 3250 mm nternal Width - 1650 mm Internal Height - 1517 mm

Wheel Base - 3200 mm Wheel Track - 1560 mm Ground Clearance - 185 mm

Figure

27 a to 27 k

- Ideation sketches for layout of caravan

From these ideations I came to a selection of layout, based on interactions with a survey group and interaction with project guides. The final layout was integration of many ideas from those in the initial ideations. It was recreated in the digital drawings and a final body stroming was carried out to find the effectiveness of the layout. In the following pages, the photos of the body stroming for the selected layout is showcased.

Figure 28: Final selected layout for body stroming

Entrance to Caravan Seat No. 1

1200mm Seat No. 2

3240mm 1950

mm

Photo 5: Arragngement of available materials for understanding my ideated sketches of interior of caravan layout.

Bathroom Mirror

Bathroom Partition Wall Cooking + Storage

Seat No. 4 Seat No. 3

Bathroom Sliding Door

Free Space Access to tools & Services below floor

Photo 6: Arragngement of Kitchen and toilet sliding doors. After the body stroming the door position of toilet was changed as it felt hinderance for easy movement.

Photo 7: Explanation of the layout to focused user group

Photo 8: Focus group interacting and satisfied with the layout of caravan

Photo 9: Sleeping layout for caravan, above picture double bed for kids, below picture layout for 6’ x 6’ for adult bed

Figure 28: Various detailing of final layout Top left: .Layout for kids bed Bottom Left: Layout for adults bed Right Middle: Bathing & Toilet Layout

Suggestions from the group included, change of the position of bathroom door, lighter shades for wall and ceiling, a PVC vinyal flooring similar to seen in Indian railway trains with wooden texture preferred, few curtains, highly durable make of equipemtns and fixtures, dim or subtle lighting preferred and special consideration of music system different. What lacked is the volume of of caravan, as the height of the roof and bed above would be difficult and newer insights would be arrived at. This could be visulised as of now through the renders and 3d scaled modelling. Outcome of bodystroming was to get the proper understanding of the layout which would be suitable for family of 4 members, who are on rented caravan for a weekend or 2 to 3 weeks vacation.

By the end of the project schedule still there was a missing of some essenceof project that was a physical need to check myself and understand a real Tata Winger, this was possbile just 1 week before the completion of project.

I had mad many attempts to get see a Winger through sales persons, showroom, school vans, etc. But one I suddenly found a Winger next to my hostel, in following photos are my visit and interaction.

Photo 10 to 20: A visit to Tata Winger Ambulance to understand the interior space

Photo 11 & 12: My height being 5’ 11”, I felt interior space is congested with 6’ width and 6’3” ceiling.

Photo 13: Overhead storage used for medical supplies was not easily accessible with stretcher on the floor.

Photo 14: The Driver Seats are very difficult in placement. The accelerator and brakes are very closely placed, and specially for ambulance it really need some design considerations.

Photo 15: The Driver Seats is situated in a very small confined space. It induces lot of pain in the back and arms.

The steering wheel is too broad, starining wrists.

Photo 16: Service realated photos.

Top most Left and middle: Extra battery with 1000 watt inverter for medical equipments Bottom left and middle: Due to fuel tank of 60 ltrs capacity the load shifted on to left wheels Middle: There is lot of stroage and open space below the van, which can be utlised..

Seen here are two full size oxygen cylinders.

Right: Very basic function switches and fan only provided for co passanger.

Photo 17: Team Top Left: Hashik, 31 yrs, drives ambulances for 7 yrs till now.

Bottom left: Abhijith, 21 yrs, brother of driver, knows of Caravans, but didn’t knew that India has possibility of caravan tourism. Would like to go in caravan tours.

Top: Left to right, Sujith, Hashik, Taitus David 50 yrs, Firstcall Amubluance service owner, Prajwal

Photo 18: Visit to Force Traveller Ambulance It was an Force TT shell. Abulance service provider had to fit their own seats and stretcher.and other furnishings. Their is additional strecher on the side of wall.

Top: Seats are placed aligned in front Right: The inner width is lesser compared to Tata Winger 2021 model

All the photos and few audio recording was done with persons approval.

After the visit, I found that the Tata Winger Ambulance new model 2021, is suitable for a 4 person caravan, but there will be limited storage on the inside. The driver’s seats, and service area needs to developed further, which would be another project in itself. The exterior look of the caravan is not so influenced as compared to the interiors of caravan. They need a comfortable sleep and washroom facilities on priority.

After a brief interaction and letting them know about new government facilites for Caravan Tourism, they are ready to pay around Rs 3000 per day for vehicle rental, exculding other charges. As other private agencies are charging from Rs 4000 onwards. They would go for once a year vacation on caravan, for a week. They doubt about government environement of corruptions but also they feel government is more responsible to have such scheme. Over the time it may become more affordable. They felt that this is a good initive of designing a caravan for Indian context is a must. So that they can upgrade their amulances into a caravan in the future.

Biwi Ka Maqbara, exact replica of Taj Mahal at Aurangabad District Maharashtra. Source: Wikiwand

08

08 Ide@tions

two transportation domain experts, things would be not be simple.

Even though I made an attempt to apply atleast 2 ideas from learning from Transportation design which would communicate the caravan from India.

The process was to take the photos from the authentic website, Tata Winger, make a digital tape drawings, and later do ideation sketches as

“If I had asked what people wanted they would have said

keeping them as underlay. After initial ideations were rejected. They were

faster Horses.” - Henry Ford, founder Ford Motor Company

based on 6 themes. Initial sketches were in pencil and they were not acceptable. As I had not taken any form studies course, the styling with abstraction was not at all understood properly in the starting. It took two

The idea for layout being fixed. The whole project now turned towards

days to understand my mentors sketching and followup.

the exterior styling of the Caravan. This was done with expertise mentoring of Prof Premlal. It was utterly difficult to match with his

In the the following pages the ideations which were based on themes

capabilities. Even though I tried hard I did say I needed more of

are shared. Initial 20 sketches were pencil. Later out of them 4 themes

explaination through sketches.

were finalised and a proper ideation sketch was done. Out of those 4 one was finalised based on peer suggestions and in discussion with guide

Further in the design process is the styling of the carvan. This was an

and mentor. Quater views was new to me and then the photoshop was

additional area which I wanted to try out. As being a prodcut designer,

outsourced to Aritra Mahapatra, from whom i learned the details of styling

I was always into eco friendly and sustainablility and all my projects

elements along with my mentor. The final layout and the exterior is done

had been in that confined area. I felt lucky as having a guidence from

in sketchup and rendered in keyshot.

Figure 29: Initial sketches were rejected and no where near a designers presentation in field of transportation. .

Pen diagrams but they were too direct trsnaslations

Mentor’s work for inspiratoion

Based on sir’s inspiration

The abstracted but structral alterations were too many, which is not under scope of this project

The final selected theme and taken forward for rendering

Still under learning process of 1/4th views

Initial and final rear view sketch

Malshej Ghats, near Pune, Maharshtra. Source: Thrillophila

09

09

- Fridge below, cooking & working area in middle and Oven above

Spirit of Design

- Space provision for storing a standard size telescope.

- Security camera, which can also be utlised for selfie camera - Solar charging and backup lighting systems

And then some more: Beyond desires of what can be made memorable for

“It is better to create than learn. Creating is the essence of Life” - Julius Caesar, Roman Ruler & Statesman

- Disco lighting and woofers - Mood Lighting - Provison to provide rain dance, when caravan is near a water body - Washing Rock - in modern context

The details of the items inside the Indian caravan. And what all additional features wheich would make the vaction more memorable.

Some special considerations after studying the camping and day to day activites: - Grill stove with attachments - Water outlet on all sides if possible - Morning Tea or Coffee making space - Space for keeping trekking shoes/ footwear - Provision to hang used clothes, raincoats, etc - Daily Medical box near the water dispenser

- A banner / poster area - A3 size outside the caravan - Social Friendly - provision for mobile holders and cameras inside caravan - Air pump & vaccum - to inflate the tyres and boats & cleaning - Iconic seat, which can be easily assembled and stored easily.

- Identity of Indian element.

10

10 Sanchari

Tentaive Business Proposal - MTDC Sanchari A rental service provided by MTDC under the Caravan Tourism. Person can rent a MTDC Sanchari caravan through the Tourist Information Centers, website, or through MSTRC Website and App.

Booking is done against valid driving licenses and other required

“Travelling leaves you speechless and then turns you into a

documents to a profile ID created. The frequent routes or tourist spots

storyteller.” Ibn Battuta, Arab Scholar and Explorer

are shown. Person can select the routes and check the kilometers, and costing per day rentals. Family arrives at the starting point of the caravan park, Takes on a memorable journey. Family returs back to caravan park

Ibn Batutta has documented his nearly 1.2 Lakhs of kilometer journey

to drop off the caravan. Fuel and other state related taxes are claimed for

in Rihlah, probably the world’s documented travel log. Sanchari, a

cashbacks and other promotional offers.

Hindi Bengali origin term means traveller who is in motion.

While during the camping, person can check water levels in the fresh water Sanchari is the layout for caravan on Tata Winger new model 2021

and grey water tanks, charges in the battery, control lighting, click photos

as a benchmar. It is duitable for a family of 4 members, preferrably

from the caravan selfie camera and share, search for caravan parks, acceess

2 adults 2 kids. As to learn design process this was constructed

interactive video guide to use caravans, and other functions. It would be

and exclusively for Maharashtra Tourism, hence MTDC Sanchari.

available in an exclusive MTDC Sanchari Caravan App. The elements of

Inspired from Kalki avatar and subtle hints from the uniqueness of

interiors are inspired from the craft and culture of Maharashtra. And the

Maharashtra, this when taken further could be a game changer.

standard fixtures are used for equipments .

2700 mm

1560 mm

1950 mm

Expandable Roof Height

Height - 2700 mm

600 mm

Wheel base - 3200 mm Length - 4950 mm

The interior of MTDC Sanchari is embellished in plain colours with minimal elements and inspiration from Maharashtra’s rich Crafts like Dhuree Textiles, Warli Art, Paithani Saree Motifs, Bidri Work and Ganjifa Cards .

Time being on very cruical factor, the layout and basic styling was carried

This was really great project. Beyond my hold from the length and

out in this project. Though I would carryout this further in depth with

breadth. I enjoyed it at every moment be it physically stressed out at

seating and other furniture details, as of now this course deals with most

some zones. Definately look forward to implement MTDC Sanchari

suitable layout with a base example of how a caravn in India may be

as close to execution as possible.

included without it becoming a strange out of the road fancy vehicle.

In the end MTDC Sanchari addresses the main issue of a The finishes and other detailings are done in the model as to shortage of

comfortable ride in self driven rental caravan from government,

time when this document was made. Photos of those will be uploaded

which has a decent layout with main bathroom, toilet and sleeping

later in this document before its final printing. S Time being on very

facilites for a small family from tier 1 & tier 2 cities. Hoping that this

cruical factor, the layout and basic styling was carried out in this project.

dream comes true in the year 2025.

Though I would carryout this further in depth with seating and other

What Next?

furniture details, as of now this course deals with most suitable layout

Sanchari, a traveller, is not just limited to MTDC, but every state can

with a base example of how a caravn in India may be included without it

have its own unique caravan’s based on Sanchari as an example.

becoming a strange out of the road fancy vehicle.

KSRTC Sanchari, IKEA Sanchari, caravan to learn about crafts of

The finishes and other detailings are done in the model as to shortage of time when this document was made. Photos of those will be uploaded later in this document before its final printing. Sperate annexure for references of Materials, products used in the MTDC Sanchari and Finishes is attached with is documentation.

India, IRCTC Sanchari, and ultimately THE Zayden Sanchari, my personal caravan to inspire the Rural kids of India. And if you dream of a Sanchari, just like me, and feel strongly that every dream can be achieved in time, then no need to wait, feel free to contact me at caravandesignconcepts [at] gmail [dot] com. I am humbeled and grateful to my mentors, KSID faternity, friends far and near and my family for supporting throughout this project.

“Journey of 1000 memories begins with the first Sanchari.”

Reframed from famous quote from Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu of 6th BCE, “Journey of 1000 miles begins from the first step.”

This research based design document is the output of Design Project Course at Kerala State Institute of Design, Kollam.

Caravan tourism originated from Caravans, a home on wheels idea from abroad, is now becoming a new trend in India. People are starting to explore this option in India. This book brings to you most suitable template for caravan layout for a family of 4 members, through example of Sanchari, Indian Caravan Concept. Caravan is for creating memorable journey throughout your vacation, now you can create on the go with your own caravan, Sanchari.

Design Prajwal Venkatesh