Oadish (oh-a-dish)

Challenges: Improved design of a new dish rack

Date: September - December 2023

Skills: Product Design, CAD Modeling

Tools: Figma, Fusion 360, Adobe Illustrator

Main Functions/Design

Specialized Drying mat

Adapts to various small counter sizes

Accommodates larger kitchen items such as pots and pans

Made out of Diatomaceous earth for rapid drying to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria

versatile utensil box

Caters to a wide array of kitchen tools

Knife safety

Can be easily attached to the mat

Prevents utensil from slipping through

Silicone Padding

Noise reducing silicone padding on the prongs of the rack

Silicon coating on the bottom of the stone mat for non-slip functionality and silicone covering on top to protect dishes from the stone

Dishwasher and washing machine safe

Process

Our initial focus was fixing the water drainage system. We went through many designs such as having a two-story rack where plants could be placed on the bottom section to catch excess water from the plates/bowls to designing a more elevated tray with a spout.

During our user interviews and co-creation session, we found that people are more interested in the idea of modularity. The interviewees prefer to have a dish rack that can be easily stored but could also be used during occasions that requires more drying spaces. Therefore, we switched our focus in designing a dish rack that could function in a smaller household specifically towards people living alone and doesn’t have much countertop space .

Additionally, we conducted many tests and research to ensure that the measurements of the plate dividers are universal. Starting with initial iterations featuring solid bars, we've changed the design to accommodate both plates and bowls.

We also experimented with the design of the utensil holder. A common issue with many utensil box is that the air holes on the bottom are too wide that most chopsticks in the market won’t be able to fit. As a result, we also take chopsticks’ measurement into account when we’re designing the utensil holder.

Testing

stage 1

· 3D printing

· Not in scale

· Needs user to find their way in placing utensils

stage 2

· Experimenting with different materials

· Positive feedbacks on the expandable feature

stage 3

· Settled with materials & design

· User can easily arranged & explored different possibilities with foldable mat

· suggested for a utensil box base to enhance modularity