Taki
A modular zen water fountain
For my final project in my Iterative Product Prototyping course, I had the option to make anything I wanted whilst utilizing prototyping techniques we have learned throughout the class. I've already thought of this project idea prior to taking this course but had never made enough time to create it until then.
I was taking a look at some Zen related products online (e.g. mini sand gardens, bonsai trees, stones, etc.) and had noticed a number of them offer some feature of interactivity. You can use a miniature rake to engrave patterns on a desktop sized sand garden or use a pair of clippers to trim and maintain a bonsai tree. One particular Zen product I saw that didn't display some sort of obvious interactivity were water fountains. I thought to myself...
"why not try and design a desktop size Zen water fountain that offers both the redeeming peaceful and Zen qualities of a water fountain while also offering a level of playful interactivity."
Sketching and Cardboard Prototyping
Like for the beginning of any project, I sketched ideas and designs I had imagined for this project to get a better idea of the size, shape, and breadth of the project. One concept we learned throughout the course is to not be weary of making super simple prototypes out of any available material, like cardboard!
Sketches and cardboard prototypes
Designing and Modelling
3D models and printed parts
Design Considerations
Video of working prototype
Water fountain configurations during user testing trials