In our study of the student issue revolving daily water bottle usage, we defined the major problems to be that the bottle mouth is too big, too small, too drippy, and too hard to open.

Group 1

We combined the ’size time interface cost’ technique with the Magnify/Minify technique in order to come up with creative solutions. This led to our realization of a spectrum ranging from external solutions to solutions integrated biologically with your body. On one extreme, simply drinking rain water is the most disconnected, external solution. And on the other, a full time IV supply of water would allow the user a fully automated, integrated means of refreshment. Our realistic solution that lies within the more practical range of the spectrum is called the AquaPouch.

The product consists of a refillable sleeve bladder roughly the size of two spirals with a capacity of about one liter. This would fit easily in any backpack or briefcase or shoulder bag. The user drinks via a retractable tube or straw. The unit is refilled from a high performance water dispenser that uses a pressure loaded seal that allows hassle free connection for a rapid refilling process.

Group 2

We focused size and interface. In order to maximize portability, we focused on just the amount of water needed- a gulp or two. We wanted something that was self contained and fun. Our three solutions were Waterbelt (contains small vials of water), Watershirt (shirt absorbs and holds water, just squeeze to drink), and Watergrapes (membrane eatable water bubbles).

Group 3

We worked out a multitude ideas. Some focused around better ways of refilling water bottles. One idea is to have a second cap area. Another idea is to have two petals at the fountain- one for regular drinking, and the other for fast filling. This way the line is not held up behind you. We also worked out ways to upcycle (or reuse) water bottles. Adding notches or grooves would turn multiple bottles into a lego set.