Graduation project - RO Water Purifer

GRADUATION PROJECT RO WATER PURIFIER

Empoise Design Studio | 2017

Graduation Project 2018

Water Purifier Sponsor

Empoise Design Studio Student

Eesha Patne

Industrial Design (Product Design)

Industry Guide

Saikat Biswas

Faculty Guide

Prof. Dhimant Panchal

Water Purifier

Acknowledgements

Prof. Dhimant Panchal - My mentor and guide at MITID, who found the time and patience to share his deep insights despite demanding academic and administrative commitments. His active encouragement and support throughout the last 3 years of my study have been invaluable.

Empoise Design Studio for this amazing

opportunity and the perfect; invigorating and creative environment anyone could ever hope for.

Saikat Biswas for never being a ‘boss’, for

trusting me and encouraging an intern like me to take lead, for creative and conceptual freedom and teaching me to trust my instincts and be fearless. For being so effortlessly approachable despite his leadership position, for his utter humility and constant motivation throughout this project. For teaching me to be curious and to have a thirst for knowledge. For patience and kindness whenever I faltered. For sharing stories and experiences as they were my window into the design industry and for taking time out to have the many wonderful conversations that we have had over this period of 6 months.

01

Puttaraj

Belaldavar for knowing everything there is to know about, a practical leader and a warm person. For always helping me figure things out when I was stuck and for being the most genuine critic a designer needs. For encouraging me to keep exploring and pushing me to give my best.

Parag and Starchen for their constant

support and guidance in things I needed help in. For all the engineering insights and helpful suggestions. For fun lunch time stories and immense discussions about movies and geography. For making me feel like a part of the Empoise family.

Sam for being an important part of my Bangalore experience. For sharing her love for food with me and for the late night icecreams. For all the free-flowing discussions and unending questions. For the optimism and being her quirky self.

Mum and Dad, for believing in me and

being the greatest driving force in my life. Friends who are more of family, for staying through long distances and short.

This wouldn’t have been possible without all of you.

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Contents

Phase 1

PROJECT SUMMARY

04

- Introduction - Sponsor - Brief - Project Timeline

Phase 4

DETAILING

66

- Concept variation - Technical detailing - UX - CMF

Product renders Phase 2

RESEARCH

14

- About water purifiers - Market study - User study - Problem study

Phase 5

CONCLUSION

110

- Experience - Retrospection

Derived insights Redefined brief

Phase 3

CONCEPTUALISATION

46

-Configurations:

Understanding existing Ideation

-Form concepts: Sketches Shortlisted

Final concept

02

Phase 1

PROJECT SUMMARY - Introduction - Sponsor - Brief - Project Timeline

Water Purifier // Project Summary

05

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Introduction

This document is a concise compilation of the project that I worked on for 6 months as a part of my graduation project, at Empoise Design Studio, Bangalore; a firm known for its well designed solutions to a range of products. This document is also a culmination of my learnings of past 4 years in this institute.

The product made has been designed in accordance with the design language and following a defined brief given to me at Empoise Design Studio. Following the trends and using apt design inspirations, this project proposes to explore new design direction and design opportunities that I managed to develop while working on a water purifier.

Hope you like reading it as much as I liked working on it!

06

Water Purifier // Project Summary

Sponsor About

Empoise is an industrial design studio established in 2010 by Saikat Biswas and Puttaraj Belaldavar. Empoise has worked on industrial design projects ranging from small handheld devices to transportation design. They have successfully translated strategy and consumer insights into compelling concepts. They believe in challenging themselves to deliver out the box design ideas to their clients.

07

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Sponsor Industry mentor

Saikat Biswas

Industrial Designer He studied industrial design with the specialization in product design at National Institute of Design, India and Pforzheim University of Applied Science, Germany.

He has worked for some of the largest consumer electronics companies across the world and worked on countless number of projects of varied spectrum, from creating mobile phones to designing trains.

Open-minded and self motivated, he takes pride in his work.

His enthusiasm about his team makes him an ideal mentor.

He has created an enivironment that is ideal for inspiring creative work and boosting productivity.

08

Water Purifier // Project Summary

Sponsor Work

09

Portable 3G Hotspot

Jio thermal printer

Safr Activity tracker

Luminous solar power pack

Tagsy bluetooth SOS companion

Achira Microfluidics Diagnostic device

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Brief

Background: Most water filters available in the Indian market are not user friendly and not user serviceable.

‘‘To create a water purifier line that will appeal to this generation of new consumers with its design and functionality.’’

Target consumer: Middle and upper middle income group of Indian household Focus: Find fresh design insights and stories for water purifier.

Deliverables Project plan - timeline Product research User research Moodboard Concept sketches Modelling Rendering Presentations

10

Water Purifier // Project Summary

Project Timeline

Weeks

02

04

06

08

Research

Insights, criteria and brief

Initial stage of ideation

Second stage of ideation

Initial technical Detailing

Final detailing, rendering

Concept selection

11

10

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

12

14

16

Concept selection

18

20

22

24

Prototyping

12

Phase 2

RESEARCH - About - Market - User - Problems Derived insights Redefined brief

Water Purifier // Research

Research About water purifiers

India

76 63

China

58

Nigeria Ethiopia

42 34

D. R. of Congo Indonesia

32 23

Tanzania Bangladesh kenya Pakistan

21 17 16

Number of people (million) in the world without access to safe water

When one talks about the drinking water conditions in India, there are only stories of horror faced by vast majority of the population.

India has the highest number of people in the world without access to safe water, a report released to mark World Water Day in March 2017. The country has 75.8 million people, at least 5% of its 1.25 billion population, without access to clean water.

Majority of the population in India relies on water supplied from underground sources and water bodies for drinking purpose. Expansion of industrial sector in India over the last couple of decades and the resulting increase in disposal of waste materials into rivers has rendered river water unfit for drinking. In addition, underground water in several regions of the country contains high TDS levels. Deteriorating quality of water in India is the principal factor for the surging water purifiers demand in the country.

15

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Household purification systems

There are three main types of household water purification systems. In India, counter top/wall mount purifier are most commonly used. Majority of the countries in North America and Europe use under the sink purifiers.

UNDER THE SINK

COUNTER TOP

TAP GUARD

These purifiers are fitted literally under the kitchen sinks with tanks. Their outlet is connected to the faucet so that they get drinking water from their kitchen tap. They do not have any aesthetic element as they are not supposed to be easily visible.

These purifiers are most commonly found in India and a few other Asian countries. They tend to be made aesthetically pleasing since they are always visible in the kitchen interiors.

These purifiers are basic purifiers with UF or Sediment filters or carbon filters. They can be under the sink or counter top and only clean the water that comes from the tap and sends it back.

16

Water Purifier // Research

Filters Pesticide molecule 0.001MICRON Ultrafiltration pore 0.01MICRON Sea salt molecule 0.0007MICRON Virus 0.02-0.4MICRON

Bacteria 0.4-1.0MICRON

Reverse Osmosis pore 0.0005MICRON

Types of membranes: RO - Reverse Osmosis filtration : Reverse osmosis or RO is a filtration method that is used to remove ions and molecules from a solution by applying pressure to the solution on one side of a semipermeable or selective membrane.

UV - Ultraviolet filtration : UV Water Purification systems use special lamps that emit UV light of a particular wavelength that have the ability, based on their length, to disrupt the DNA of micro-organisms.

UF - Ultrafilteration : UF is a similar membrane to RO membranes but with bigger pores which cannot remove dissolved salts from water.

Activated Carbon filter : The carbon filters can remove chemicals like chlorine, pesticides and impurities to a great extent. The filtration changes the taste and odor of water. Usually coconut shells are used to make carbon filters.

17

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

RO membrane

Clean, drinking water at home begins with Reverse Osmosis (RO). Unlike typical water filters, RO has an ultra-fine 0.0001-0.01micron filtration that removes bacteria, antibiotics and heavy metals. It also removes TDS - total dissolved solids, organic contaminants, pathogens and desalinates water.

TFC membranes or Thin film composite membranes are typically made out of thin polyamide layer (<200nm) deposited on top of polyethersulphone or polysulfone porous layer (50microns) on a non-woven fabric support sheet.

RO membranes need to be changed every 1-2 years depending on the TDS count and water usage volume. RO systems require electricity to work - due to power cuts, Indian purifiers need storage tanks - which most other developed countries donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t.

18

Water Purifier // Research

Components Flowchart and specifications

INLET

PRE FILTER

SEDIMENT FILTER

CARBON FILTER

BOOSTER PUMP

SOLENOID VALVE

RO MEMBRANE FLOW RESISTOR

UV FILTER

POST FILTER

FLOAT VALVE

DRAIN 19

TANK/ OUTLET

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Eureka Forbes Dr Aquaguard

KENT

Geneus+

Superb

RO

YES

YES

UV

YES

YES

UV lamp details

11 watts. 5000 burning hours

11 W

UF

YES

YES

TDS controller

YES

YES

Mounting type

Counter top, wall mounted

Wall mounted

Dimensions

367mm x 314mm x 567mm

410mm x 260mm x 520mm

Net weight

11.8kg

8.6kg

Material of body

ABS Plastic

ABS Plastic

Purification capacity

15LPH

15LPH

Storage capacity

7L

9L

Purification stages

6

4

TDS level

2000mg/litre

750ppm

Power consumption

45W

60W

Booster pump voltage

24v

24v

Input power supply

230vAC/ 50-60Hz

100-300v, 5060Hz

Inlet water pressure

2kg/cm2

0.3-3kg/cm2

Warranty

12months

12months

Price

20,549/-

22,638/-

Specifications

20

Water Purifier // Research

Key players in industry Indian brand study

India has the largest market for counter top/wall mount water purifiers. Big brands compete with their own take on the products. Companies like LG, KENT, Pureit, AO Smith, Eureka Forbes - Aquaguard are huge.

KENT A renowned company that started its operations in 1999 in Noida, India. KENT is manufacturing numerous RO water purifiers such as wall mounted, under the sink, with inbuilt chillers, gravity based UF, uv and Tap guard.

21

Eureka Forbes Countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading water purifier brand. Began by selling UV water purifiers when there were none.

The Aquaguard is being sold by 15,000 dealers in 1800 cities and towns in India.

Pureit Pureit is a brand of Hindustan Unilever which is selling in more than 9 countries using latest technologies.

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

AO Smith It is a universal manufacturer of both residential and commertial water heaters and boilers. It als supplies water treatment products in the Asian market.

Their water purifiers are new competitors with fresh design and good technology.

Zero B It is a brand recognised among top 10 best water purifier brands in India. It is popular not only in India but in numerous counties in the world like UK, Japan, Russia, USA and Africa.

Livpure This is one of the top 10 brands in India launched by Luminous Water Technologies Pvt. Ltd. It is now a trustworthy brand among Indian consumers. It is a relatively new brand compared to Eureka Forbes and KENT.

22

Water Purifier // Research

Key players in industry International brand study International market of water purifiers largely caters to under the sink purifiers, where you get pure drinking water from the faucet directly. Counter top purifiers are new in this market and have a very different take compared to the countertop purifiers available in India. Companies like Coway, Aquasana, Brita are the key players in countertop water purifiers with different methods into change of filters and servicibility.

AQUATRU This company sells only one product that is a water filter and dispenser. The water needs to be manually filled by the user and the filter replacement sysem is separately constructed as seen.

The downside to this is that the reviews talk about terrible service and at times leakage of water.

23

BRONDELL Started in 2003, Brondell heads believe that they are the developers of innovative, highquality, healthy home products dedicated to improving daily living one room at a time.

Specialising in bidet toilet seats, they have expanded their product range to water filtration systems.

AQUASANA The sole focus of this American company is providing best-inclass water filtration products so every home can enjoy greattasting, healthy water. Aquasana water filter components are engineered for minimal waste including our reusable outer filter casings and filter cartridges made of recyclable parts and compostable materials.

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

BRITA For almost 40 years BRITA has been among the leading experts in the field of water optimization.

The family business, founded in 1966, has become two global companies which manufactures water filtration products for household and professional applications.

XIAOMI Xiaomi was founded in 2010 by serial entrepreneur Lei Jun, who believes that high-quality technology doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to cost a fortune. We create remarkable hardware, software, and internet services for and with the help of our Mi fans. Xiaomi is expanding its footprint across the world to become a global brand.

COWAY Cowayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s products are ranged from home wellness appliances, including water purifiers, air purifiers, bidets, and water softeners through mattresses that ensure a pleasant sleep to cosmetics for healthy beauty. We are capable enough to achieve a remarkable growth by taking on challenges in an unprecedented way.

24

Water Purifier // Research

Market Study Market Survey

25

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

I visited a few appliance stores like Reliance Digital, Croma, LG,etc. These are the observations: - Eureka Forbes and KENT sells the most.

- The salesmen ask the customers what kind of water they get - from Kaveri river or bore well or municipal - accordingly they suggest what kind of purifier to use. If they get only Kaveri water, they suggest a UV, if only a borewell then RO and if either, RO+UV. - RO and RO+UV sells the most.

- Customers ask for specifications with comparison to price and servicing facilities.

- From Eureka Forbes, Aquaguard Enhance (Rs. 17,500) sells the most followed by Aquaguard Superb (Rs.20,500) and from KENT Superstar (Rs.15,500) sells the most followed by KENT Pearl (Rs. 17,500).

- Every model gets 1 year of free servicing after that either AMC from the brand or from Reliance Digital itself.

26

Water Purifier // Research

Market Study Market Trends

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

2000

2005 RO

2010 UV

2015

2020

Tap water/boiled water

The water purifier market in India is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of over 21% during 2016-2021. RO water purifier segment was the fastest growing segment in India water purifier market during 2011-2015 and the trend is expected to continue over the next five years. On the other hand, water purifiers with UV technology are fast declining due to less innovation.

27

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

BRAND KENT

STUDY

Eureka Forbes 35

Pureit

Price

30 25 20 15 10 5 0

Serviceability

No. of Stages

For a long period, Eureka Forbes has dominated the RO category but KENT has now overtaken the leading position. However, both companies are at a striking distance and tring hard to stay ahead by innovating and promising good after sales service.

Following up is the upcoming brand, Pureit by HUL. Previously Indian markets were not exposed to water purifiers as a result of -

Economic factors

Poor sales

Poor distribution

28

Water Purifier // Research

Brand positioning

IDEAL PRODUCT POSITIONING Functionality

Price

The above placement of various brands shows the intended product positioning with respect to the other brands taking into consideration the functionality with the pricing.

29

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Price 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

Serviceability

No. of stages

The star positioning also shows the aspects to be covered in the upcoming product proposition to ensure it stands out from the rest.

This covers the basic benchmarks of the product: Number of Stages Serviceability Marketing Price Aesthetics

30

Water Purifier // Research

User Study Home Surveys

Personal surveys and interviews were taken to understand user psyche and design opportunities.

31

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Multiple personal interviews were taken from various homes. After the interviews that consisted people from different backgrounds, living in different areas, using different water purifiers; insights were drawn for user target development.

Questions asked in the surveys: 1. Brand, Model 2. On what basis did you decide to buy that particular model, did you check the the TDS level/water quality before buying?

3. For how long have you been using it?

4. How often do you have to replace the filters, get it serviced?

5. Do you do it yourself/someone comes home for servicing?

6. Price of each servicing roughly.

7. Are there any problems youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been facing with the purifier?

8. From where/how did you acquire this product?

32

Water Purifier // Research

Top 4 personas have been mentioned below-

Sanjay Gupta (placements for IT professionals) Indiranagar, Bengaluru 52years Family: Wife, a daughter and a son Penthouse apartment.

ZERO B ULTIMATE RO The owner knew the person selling the purifier. So trusted the brand due to contact.

11 years Get it serviced thrice a year, every 4 months. Some filters are replaced with every service, some once a year.

AMC of 8K for 2 years - 6services.

The company calls and confirms the visit every time.

Ordered from the dealer, got it delivered home.

No problems yet.

Saikat Biswas (Product Designer) Sanjaynagar, Bengaluru 34years Family: Wife and dog Apartment.

AQUAPURE CUSTOMISED RO Researched about the water quality, TDS level and the cost of individual parts and assembly resulting in a far cheaper purifier.

3years Serviced by self once in 3 months - filters are ordered online and replaced once a year on estimation.

Rs. 1800/No problems - components should ideally be user friendly; when you take the tank out for cleaning, the float valve doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let you place the tank down.

33

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

M. J. Francis (Retired Navy engineer, Railway engineer) Mathikere, Bengaluru 61years Family: Wife and 3 sons.

A terraced house.

EUREKA FORBES AQUASURE MAXIMA RO+UV Bought from: Directly from the appliance shop - discounts and new in the market, suggested by the shopkeepers.

Using it for 3 years They call the servicing guy once a year, roughly.

Rs. 800 for filter replacement and Rs. 500 for servicing.

Navy canteen - a place where they get everything for lower cost.

The tap lever needs to be taken up for filling bigger vessels - intersects with water flow; a lot of water wastage.

Anjana Khare (Housewife) Indiranagar, Bengaluru 51years Family: Husband, father-in-law, daughter and a dog.

Bungalow

EUREKA FORBES AQUAGUARD REVIVA RO Were using Eureka Forbes before as well, decided to upgrade to RO - ads and recommendation by eureka forbes team.

9-10 years Planned service visits - Annual Maintenance Contract - thrice a year. Replace filters once a year.

Approx. Rs.3000/- a year.

Contacted company for purchase - it was delivered and installed at home.

No problems yet.

34

Water Purifier // Research

User Study Understanding Target audience

Millennials or the new consumers:

‘‘Numerous, diverse, highly educated, and drowning in student loan debt’’ Millenials are classified as the group of people born between 1981-1997 (Ages between 20-36) As a result, Millennials currently are out there buying their new homes, purchasing their own first appliances and making life their own way. They look for aesthetics, convenience and return on investment.

35

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

INCOME

SEC CATEGORY

Premium

Mid

Entry

5-10 lakh

1-5 lakh

50k- 1lakh

A

A and B

B

Upper Middle income group: For the upper middle-class consumers, the age-old distinction between necessity and luxury is fast blurring.

Both public and private sector providers need to cater to the increasing aspirations of the new middle-class consumer who wants convenience, quality and variety and is willing to pay an appropriate price for them.

Based on the Classification)

SEC

(Socio

Economic

Premium level products - Family or couple of SEC A Mid level product - Couple of SEC A, family of SEC B Entry level productcs - Family of SEC B and Bachelors Entry - The essential spender Mid - The wise guy Premium - The splurge

36

Water Purifier // Research

User Study Insights

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

Bengaluru

Pune

RO

UV

Kochi

UF

Other

The interviews taken show that usage of UV purifiers is still prevalent but RO water purifiers are soon catching up. This study makes it clear that geographically, it made a lot of difference regarding the type of water purifier bought. TDS levels differ from region to region. In cities like Bangalore and Delhi, most people went for an RO purifier as the water quality is quite alarming. In cities like Pune, Kochi, having UV and UF purifiers were sufficient.

37

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Publicity/Ads

Discount/price

Brand

Research

Other

Based on the interviews taken, there are multiple factors that are responsible for motivating the users to buy water purifiers. The pie chart shows the consumer numbers for the reasoning to buy a particular water purifier or the motivation to get one. Users look for a lot more in their purifier than just their type and function. Factors like pricing, aesthetics, marketing and serviceablity made a difference.

Main motivations for purchasing a purifier-

Brand

Marketing/Ads

Features/USP

38

Water Purifier // Research

Problem areas

Various types of problem areas were observed and listed.

The basic decision to decide what kind of a purifier is to be installed is often based on improper assumptions.

The TDS levels should be checked, working of a purifier should be understood along with the requirements for maintenance like serviceablity and tank cleaning.

Indian kitchens tend to be small and compact.

Most users spoke about not having enough counter space and hence prefer wallmounting of their purifiers or installing cabinets to keep the purifier.

Regular replacement is a hassle.

Servicing and filter replacement is a time-consuming affair that gets difficult for working proffessionals. Also, most people prefer buying AMC (Annual maintenance contract) that ensures that representives visit twice a year.

Tank cleaning is avoided.

Most purifiers are manufactured in a way where accessing the tank is difficult or impossible. As a result, cleaning the tank once in three months never happens.

Users are apprehensive about buying RO purifiers.

Half knowledge is far more dangerous than none at all. This proves true here as most users donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have easy access to information regarding different types of purifiers and filters.

Filling of water is found to be tedious and annoying.

Indian homes have containers that are filled and kept, a habit that has continued through due to irregular power cuts. Most often, multitasking observed in the kitchen space while cooking and filling water can be a tedious task often seen as a chore.

A few simple observations: -Aethetics tend to be over-the-top, unnecessary.

-Simple straightforward semantics.

-Complete understanding of the purifier is mising.

-Older users are more concerned about their health.

-Water purifiers are long term products -Usually it is stored near or above sink -Users donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like the hassle of calling the service guys -Users are quite particular about the brand they use.

39

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Product insights

According to the user study and market research, following are the main product insights observed.

BRAND LOYALTY

LONG TERM PRODUCTS

STORAGE

SERVICING HASSLE

Through surveys it was observed that when upgrading or buying a new water purifier, consumers tend to go with the brand theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had experience with before.

Indian kitchens see the trend of having water stored in various forms. Earthen matkas, steel containers, bottles etc have been an integral part of the kitchen.

This is also partly due to irregular power cuts and water supply.

When buying a product like a water purifier, it was taken into consideration that the product will last for a long duration with respect to other appliances.

As we consider the newer generations, from GenX, the household people have moved out, gotten busier and do not like being bound by responsibilities.

Hence, waiting for servicing and maintenance becomes a hassle for the working section.

40

Water Purifier // Research

Design Criteria

SERVICEABILITY - Process of disassembly should be simple during servicing.

-Few parts for accessing

INTUITIVE DESIGN - The design should cater to all types of users and user groups.

- Good semantics help keep the product simple and hassle free.

MANUFACTURING - Use of durable material is a must.

- No.of parts should be minimal - Ease of assembly is an important factor.

AESTHETICALLY PLEASING - Form and aesthetics to appeal to the younger generation of new consumers and buyers.

- Design for flexible spaces and different home environments.

USABILITY - Easy to clean - Tank accessibility - User interactions and experience

41

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Design Opportunities

TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN - Real time TDS level measurement to ensure it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t drop too low with the filters.

- Purifier with personalised understanding of usage.

- Replacement of filters with respect to usage through place, water flow and not just time.

- Display providing useful feedback about different filters.

- Explorations in night assist lighting and ambient lighting.

- Easy interaction between user and purifier.

STRUCTURE AND FORM - Design inclusive of all parts with attention to the load of water and other components.

- Compact and space efficient.

- Flexibility in use - Self serviceability for smooth work flow and no hassles for waiting for servicemen, ensuring replacement on time.

- Ease of access of tank for regular tank cleaning.

- Finish and colours - neutrals.

42

Water Purifier // Research

Redefined brief

‘‘To design a water purifier for consumers that is user friendly, user serviceable and catering to personalised usage of the consumers based on the family size and the water quality.’’

43

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Redefined brief Feature List

A water purifier that lives upto current design trends and standards of living.

Combination filters Set with a combination of appropriate filters - no more, no less to ensure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pay for what is unnecassary.

Easy to Clean Self-serviceable and the tank can be accessed with ease for you to be able to clean it as often as you want.

Storage In-built storage, as is must in Indian household to avoid extra or external storage of water and to ensure you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t run out of water when there are power cuts.

Durable Once bought, will last over 10 years.

Easy Replacement The user should be able to replace the filters without external help or hassle. No more waiting for servicing guys to come on your time or paying extra for their help!

UI Interface designed keeping in mind the priority users and home keepers to ensure no

LED Display Indication to let users know when to replace the filters and clean the tank.

44

Phase 3

CONCEPTUALISATION - Configurations - Form Finalised configuration Finalised concept

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Configurations Understanding existing purifiers After having design criteria narrowed down, it was decided that the configuration of the product was a must to have before moving onto the form of the purifier. The configurations of existing products were studied. Further different configurations were brainstomed, keeping in mind the serviceability, tank capacity and spacing.

AO Smith Z6 RO

Livpure Touch RO+UV+UF

Livpure Touch RO+UV+UF

Dimensions HDW: 18.9”x14.5”x12.5” Tank capacity: 9.5L Digital display Back replacement 7 stage purifier Hot and cold water features.

Dimensions: HDW: 19.68”x10.62”x15” Tank capacity: 8L Back replacement.

Touch display.

7 stage purifier.

Dimensions: HDW: 19”x12.2”x14” Tank Capacity: 10L Back replacement Digital display 6 stage purifier

47

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

KENT Grand RO

Aquaguard Enhance RO+UV

LG WW180EP

Dimensions HDW: 20.5”x10”x16” Tank capacity: 8L Front replacement 7 stage purifier

Dimensions: HDW: 22.8”x12.2”x14” Tank capacity: 7L Back replacement.

7 stage purifier.

Dimensions: HDW: 19.6”x11”x14.5” Tank Capacity: 8L Stainless steel tank.

Indications for filter replacement and UV sterilising.

Back replacement 5 stage purifier

48

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Configurations Ideation Before I could start ideating on the configurations I had to keep in mind the serviceability, ease of replacement of filters and tank removal for cleaning.

Product dimension: (HDW) 18”x 10” x 14” Tank capacity: 8.5L approx Top replacement.

Space for piping and connections, solenoid valve, booster pumps, smp, electronic pcb etc. under the tank.

6 stage purifier Booster pump: HiTech 24V, 100gpd.

Removable tank.

Wall mount/counter top.

Pro: Ideally balanced product by separating filters that need to be replaced at the same time. Scope for easy tank removal.

Product dimension: (HDW) 17”x 10”x 10” Tank capacity: 6L approx Top replacement.

Space for piping and connections, solenoid valve, booster pumps, smp, electronic pcb etc. under the tank.

6 stage purifier Booster pump: HiTech 24V, 100gpd.

Removable tank.

Wall mounted/counter top Con: Too much depth for counter top as counter space is precious. Also, too deep for wall mount as it will be difficult to evenly balance the load.

49

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Product dimension: (HDW) 16”x 10”x 14” Tank capacity: 8.5L approx Side replacement.

Space for piping and connections, solenoid valve, booster pumps, smp, electronic pcb etc. under the tank.

6 stage purifier Booster pump: HiTech 24V, 100gpd.

Removable tank.

Wall mounted/Counter top.

Pro: Suitable dimensions for counter top as well as wall mount. Also, side replacement is an interesting take for a countertop product.

Product dimension: (HDW) 16”x 8”x 18” Tank capacity: 10L approx Top replacement.

Space for piping and connections, solenoid valve, booster pumps, smp, electronic pcb etc. under the tank.

5 stage purifier - 1 filter with tank.

Booster pump: HiTech 24V, 100gpd.

Removable tank.

Wall mounted.

Pro: Very slim and ideal for a wall mount.

Con: Too wide and top/bottom replacement can only fit in 5 stage purifiers.

50

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

51

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

52

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Concepts Sketches and shortlisting

After finalising the base configuration, I began with my form concepts. I was told to keep the form strong and bold. Ideal semantics should be in play and aesthetics should be clean, fresh and minimal. It was no easy task and it took me four and half weeks to sketch forms that I finally liked.

Post 80 odd sheets of sketching and a few discussions, we came down to 4 concepts.

We first assigned the moods, emotions and adjectives to each form. This was done by different users so as to get a fair idea. The ideas that clicked the most were then further resolved.

These concepts differ in their ideas, semantics, form, filter replacement and features.

53

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

54

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Concepts 01

Counter top/wall mounted Top replacement for filters Tank removal from top Tank capacity : 8.4L Dimensions : 15”x9”x17”

55

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

This concept aims to bring about a different mood, sophistication and modern touch to the water purifier. Tap design is kept simple and singular.

Configuration

SOLID STURDY COMPACT SOPHISTICATED

Top opening for filter replacement and tank cleaning

56

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Concepts 02

MODERN CLEAN FUTURISTIC STABLE

The button backlight will inform that the filters need to be checked

Tank Filters

Side opening variation with configuration. It can be a problem since kitchen space cannot be fixed.

Pump and other components

57

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Wall-mounted.

Tank capacity: 7.5L Dimensions: 15”x 8”x 17” Single push button tap.

58

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Concepts 03

Counter top/ wall mounted.

Top replacement for filters.

Tank 7.5L Dimensions: 14”x 8”x 17”

59

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

ELEGANT MINIMAL SLEEK MODERN

Fixed push button tap Revolving tap Top replacement for counter top

Curved configuration

60

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

Concepts 04

Counter top/wall mounted Top replacement for filters Transparent/translucent tank Tank capacity: 8.5L Dimensions: 14”x 8”x 17”

61

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

NORMCORE SIMPLE BALANCED STABLE

Separate pull-out tank.

No need for water indicator. Top lid of tank also holds the float valve and piping connections. Curved configuration with detachable tank

62

Water Purifier // Conceptualisation

63

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Final concept

The second concept was chosen. This journey from the shortlisted concept to the final, detailed, resolved concept is the jouney that made this internship the experience that it was.

64

Phase 4

DETAILING - Concept variations - Component List - Part detailing - UX - CMF Product renders

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Assemblies and parts This purifier has been designed intensively and as an assembly, it has multiple subassemblies that constitute it as a product. The sub-assemblies further have multiple parts that have been specifically designed with attention and effort.

Water purifier assembly - Inner casing

- Base

- Structure

- Filter casing

- Top assembly - Outer casing

- Side cladding

- Back panel

- Top cover

- Bottom panel - Tank

- Tank body

- Front cladding -Tap holders -Cladding

- Tap mechanism

- Tap - Top assembly

- Filter connections

- UV assembly

- UV choke

- Components -Booster pump -Solenoid valve -Flow resistor -Float bulb

- Piping

- Electrical wiring - Filters

- Pre filter

- Sediment

- Carbon

- RO

- Mineral 67

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Detailing Product Specifications

Basic product specs:

COMPONENT

SPECS

Purifier stages

6 : Pre, sediment, carbon, RO, UV, Mineral

Mounting

Wall mounted

Tank capacity

7L

Tank type

Pull-out, translucent PP

Booster pump

24W, 100gpd

Body Material

ABS plastic

Dimensions

13.5”x 8”x 15.5”

UV Lamp

11 W

USP

Easy tank cleaning

Feature

Self-serviceability

Water dispensing

Manual

68

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Final concept variations

The shortlisting of the final concept was done by resolving the basic issues with each concept. This concept had one main problem : if it was to be wall-mounted, how could the filters be replaced and the tank cleaned without having to take the purifier off the wall?

Different variations of this concept with respect to the configuration were made and tested for size.

69

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Detailing Transition from the inital concept

The Indian kitchens tend to be compact and counter space is usually a luxury. It was then decided to keep the product a wall-mount only purifier.

This further meant that top replacement was not an option for filter replacement and tank accessibility.

There are a few of the initial models before having reached the final model design.

For keeping tank accessible, the inital idea was to have a door in the front that would had to be opened and then the tank be pulled out for cleaning. After a lot of iterations, this idea was dropped and it was then designed in a way where the tank could directly be pulled out.

70

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Inner casing

The inner structure

71

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

01

The inner casing it made up of 5 parts.

The base part, as shown is the first. It is the bottom most and acts as a support for rest of the parts that are to come on top.

The second part is the major structure support for the tank. Attached by four screws onto the base, it provides structural strength to the purifier and helps hold the components that come on the top.

02

72

Water Purifier // Detailing

The third part has two identical parts (assembled as though a mirror image) that can be manufactured from the same mold.

It is the main filter casing. The part that is to be installed on the right will have an additional fitting attached for the UV choke.

These two parts will be glued on to the base part 01.

73

The fourth and the top most part is further attached to part 03 by an adhesive. This part houses all the components, the filter tops and fittings; and the LED indication that will be visible on the outside. This part will have a top cover fit onto it for easy repairing by the service guys. A lip and groove design will ensure easy fitting and removal when needed.

Material: ABS plastic.

Thickness: 2mm

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Detailing Outer casing

Outer cladding

74

Water Purifier // Detailing

The back panel supports the weight of the product. Ribs provide added structural support. The ribs also provide a pathway for water inlet pipe and drain pipe along with hanging brackets for mounting on the wall.

The bottom panel is attached to the back panel on a hinge. This simple hinge enables the user to open the panel for filter replacement. The ribs provide structural strength.

The panel has a magnetic lock. This is to ensure there is minimal wear and tear, which would have been there in case of snapfits. The panel has soft filleted grooves for the user to be able to easily open the panel in one motion.

This groove also provides space to pull out the tank.

75

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The side casing made out of ABS plastic is made of a single mold minimising manufacturing effort.

The two casings are identical. They will have ribs to ensure structural strength. The inner casing has holes bossed from inside to ensure the side case fits in.

There are 8 bosses on each cladding to ensure snug fitting into the inner casing.

Each part is of 2mm thickness.

The top cover is a simple lid to fit into the top part of the inner casing. Lip and groove join ensures a snug fit.

76

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing The Tank

The tank pulled out straight

77

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The front cladding is made of ABS plastic with glossy finish on the front. The tap holder parts will be manufactured with the cladding. The tap mechanism will be attached to the tank before fitting the front cladding.

The tank sub-assembly is made up of various parts. The tank being the base and main component. There is a front cladding that sits in the front to which the tap is attached. The tank has an empty cavity for the tap mechanism/valve to sit.

Tank is made of translucent PP (polypropylene).

78

Water Purifier // Detailing

The faucet fits into the holders on the front cladding. Tank has spaces for the snapfit of the front cladding to hold onto. The bottom panel has a small curve to ensure that the tank can be pulled out easily from the center.

The tank is operated on an electromagnetic switch which allows the tank to pulled out once the purifier is switched off.

79

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Detailing The Tap

These are the initial models made where the tank was to be accessible through a door and the tap was a revolving tap.

The concept was to have a revolving tap, almost like a switch.

After further iterations, the concept was canned.

While the mechanism was worked out, the major issue faced was the uncertainty that will be faced as the faucet itself moves. The water flow would not be predictable for a new user.

The tap position on the left denoted off. It works like a normal push button switch. When the tap (upper half) is pushed (image on right) dispenses water.

80

Water Purifier // Detailing

The tap now as finalised will be stationery in the above position. It will work with a push, push-to-release mechanism. The spout will hence be fixed. The tap will be manufactured in 3 parts. The border is made to add a change of colour and finish in the otherwise plain tap. The main parts will be manufactured in ABS plastic with glossy finish. The border however will have a different finish. It will be fit in with lip and groove and snapfits or adhesive if required.

The tap will be assembled onto the front cladding on the tank with tap holders manufacured with the cladding. The mechanism will have a fixed, rigid pipe for dispensing water and as a support for the tap.

81

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The push button on the valve will be attached to the back of the faucet. Once the design was finalised, a 3D printed prototype was made in PLA. The tap was printed in 2 different parts and then joined with an adhesive. The prototype was then validated for size.

82

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Filters While working on filters, it was evident that to design a new set of filters that have a different mechanism to fit in, the current filters and filter casings had to be studied in depth.

Different filters like Sediment filter (Spun fiber), Carbon filter (activated coconut filter), RO membrane and Mineral filter were studied.

It was observed that the casing of each was poorly designed. Every time the filter was to be changed, the filter casing had to be thrown away with the filter causing high levels of plastic wastage. Thus the step was then taken to design filter casings that could be reused causing minimal environment damage.

83

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The pre-filter used in most purifier is usually kept outside and the case is cleaned and reused everytime the filter inside is replaced. To make the purifier more compact and clean, this filter was decided to move into the purifier with the rest of the filters.

The handle of the filters was designed ergonomically to ensure easy, effortless turning to fit. RO and Pre filters are bigger than the others with diameter of 70mm and sediment, carbon and mineral filters are 50mm. Bayonet fitting for fixture and leak-proof fit of the filters into their tops.

84

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Filters

Twist and pull

85

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The filters are designed such that installing from the bottom becomes hassle-free and easy. The filter connections are leakproof and the casing is designed to be re-used.

The system with it also had to be re-designed. The idea is to ensure that the filters, post-replacement, come back to the client so that the casing can be reused.

The UV filter was decided to not keep open for the users to change. The UV lamp and the quartz tube are accessible from the top.

86

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Filter graphics The job of designing the filter graphics was also taken up. After a variety of explorations and ‘‘idiot-proofing’’ of the ideas, a concept was taken forward.

The basic info as required- Numbering of the filter - Filter name/description - QR code - Firm name, website - Tamper-proof information - Information about re-use of the case The initial concept was to depict dirty water getting purified at each step through the colour of each filter. A thick line at the bottom is to make it simpler while changing the filters. The number is also to be placed at the bottom. Multiple explorations were made with different alignments, fonts and layouts.

The graphics above the number depict the stage of purification in a subtle manner so that it becomes easy to cross check in case the user gets flustered.

87

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

PRE FILTER

www.empoise.com Download the free app.

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

PRE FILTER PRE FILTER

SEDIMENT FILTER

PRE FILTER

SEDIMENT FILTER

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

PRE FILTER

PRE FILTER

www.empoise.com

www.empoise.com

PRE FILTER

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

is tampered with. www.empoise.com

SEDIMENT FILTER

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

is tampered with. www.empoise.com

SEDIMENT FILTER Sediment Filter

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

Install this way

01

01

Reduce plastic waste.

01

02

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

CARBON FILTER

www.empoise.com

CARBON FILTER

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

is tampered with.

is tampered with.

RO Filter

Filter will be collected at next delivery.

Reduce plastic waste. collected if seal is tampered with.

02

01 CARBON FILTER

is tampered with.

www.empoise.com

01

www.empoise.com

SEDIMENT FILTER

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

www.empoise.com

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

is tampered with. www.empoise.com

03

RO Filter

MINERAL FILTER

04

05

RO FILTER

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

is tampered with. www.empoise.com

04 We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

is tampered with. www.empoise.com

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

Filters out dust, mud, sand and dirt for your health

03

is tampered with.

03

www.empoise.com

PRE FILTER

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste.

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste. is tampered with.

04

We will collect it.

Reduce plastic waste. is tampered with.

It was observed that the initial concept wasn’t very obvious and since this is one of its kind product, the filters had to have a very ‘idiot-proof’ graphics that anyone and everyone could understand in a go.

88

Water Purifier // Detailing

As a result, tints of bright, bold colours were chosen with the name of the filter printed up front and the number in a large font down center as the filters will be fitted from bottom.

89

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

90

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing Components

Components in the top part of the inner casing

91

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The placement of these components in the top part was designed according to the flow of water through. There were different compositions tried and tested before finalising on this one.

92

Water Purifier // Detailing

BOOSTER PUMP The purpose of the reverse osmosis booster pump is to increase water pressure going into the RO unit.

SOLENOID VALVE The Solenoid Valve in the RO Unit is an ElectroMechanical Valve.This allows the Raw Water to enter in to RO Unit when it is only energized with a Power Supply. When the Power Supply is Cut-off, there will be no water supply.

93

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

FLOAT VALVE Also known as ball valve is a mechanism or machine for filling water tanks to avoid overflow of water. When the water level rises, the float rises with it; once it rises to a pre-set level, the mechanism forces the lever to close the valve and shut off the water flow.

FLOW RESISTOR Designed to restrict the flow on the drain (reject) line, keeping the membrane pressurized to ensure optimised output water.

STEM ELBOW CONNECTOR Small parts like the stem elbow connector make it easy for piping connections.

94

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing UX

Designing the user experience of this product was something new that I had to do. Starting by deciding the positioning of the LEDs or the indicators, various explorations were made. In the previous design of the purifier; the one with the tank door; The LEDs were decided to be kept minimal in the centre with small or no symbols indicators.

95

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

With the change of the tank design, the positioning of the LEDs also had to be changed. After taking into consideration the manufacturing and space limitations, it was decided to position it on the front top panel. Further explorations were made keeping in mind this position and the information required to communicate.

on ready

clean tank

96

Water Purifier // Detailing

97

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

The front panel of the top part of the inner casing will house the LEDs as shown. The indicative text will be printed on the surface in low contrast grey depending on the colour of the product.

98

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing CMF

These were the few references with respect to the colour, material and finish as required for the water purifier.

These images cover the combinations and interior space examples based on current trends and aspirations.

99

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

100

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing CMF

Simple Pure white

101

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

102

Water Purifier // Detailing

103

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Detailing CMF

Sophisticated Classic all-black

104

Water Purifier // Detailing

Detailing CMF

Majestic Mysterious blue-grey

105

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

106

Detailing Renders

For scale and size validation : model is 6 ft tall (image - top ); 5 ft 9â&#x20AC;? tall (render - right)

107

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

108

Water Purifier // Detailing

109

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

With interior

110

Phase 5

CONCLUSION - EXPERIENCE - RETROSPECTION

Water Purifier // Conclusion

Experience

It feels impossible for me to do justice to my short but rich experience with Empoise Design, Bangalore but I will give it a shot here.

Working on this water purifier was a fantastic experience because this was the first time I got to work on an entire project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the vague idea to an implemented product all by myself. The trust and freedom that was awarded to me from the beginning has been key to my personal growth and understanding as an industrial designer and has been a key factor in boosting my confidence.

This internship was really insightful in understanding the whole development of a product; the different aspects like form, engineering and the amount of work and time that goes into a product. Personally, I feel that my skills have improved immensely because of the guidance I received and moreover because I learnt to overcome my fears. I understand the importance of teamwork more than ever. From struggling with forms to learning how to detail my product, it has been a great journey.

I got a chance to explore everything that I love, from food to music to greenery and trees to meeting strangers and having goofy conversations. Being in a new city, I learnt to embrace cultural differences. Every lunch break conversation taught me new things and showed me a new way of life. It was truly a challenging and an exhilarating experience that I will forever be grateful for.

115

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

Journey of a lifetime

These four glorious years of my life have gone by in the blink of an eye.

I couldn’t have been more grateful to everyone who made this journey worthwhile.

To all the staff and faculty who have contributed to my time here and for their valued inputs; to those who I’ve lived with and grown up with, they were my family away from home; to those I’ve met fleetingly and yet have impacted my life in some way, these years have been memorable.

I still remember the first sem lectures and the colour theory redos, staying up late nights for Quasars, the studios and our family of a class, the hostel nights before juries and what not! Every year I have seen myself and the people around me grow up. We’ve grown up as a community, learning to take care of each other and find our own identity.

It was a rollercoaster ride with its fair shares of ups and downs and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

When you step outside for an internship or a job, that’s when you realise how far you’ve come. Design is not just a career choice, it’s a lifestyle.

116

Water Purifier // Conclusion

117

Eesha Patne // Graduation Project 2018

118