GMP1 Project

My role: Hack a traditional box and improve the usability and accessibility of the box

Team size: 4 people

Project Overview

For our “hacking the traditional box” project, we created a customizable, wearable storage box that combines functionality and style. Designed for accessibility, it can be worn as a purse, briefcase, or tote bag and features adjustable compartments to fit items like electronics, gym gear, or other essentials. The box is lightweight, durable, and modern, ensuring it’s both comfortable to carry and visually appealing. Our goal was to design a practical storage solution that adapts to individual needs while doubling as a stylish accessory for everyday use.

1.0 Goals

4.0 Conclusion

Problem

The problem we addressed was the lack of versatile storage solutions that combine functionality with style. Traditional bags and boxes often have fixed spaces, forcing users to adapt their belongings to the design rather than meeting their unique needs. Many options focus solely on practicality, overlooking aesthetics and comfort for everyday use. This leaves users struggling to find storage that fits their essentials while aligning with their personal style and lifestyle.

Aim & Objectives

Inspiration

2.0 Design and Production

Goals: Design an accessible, lightweight, and durable box with multiple carrying options (handheld, backpack, or shoulder strap). Include customizable dividers, secure clasps, velcro straps for loose items, and an extra compartment for attachments. Use accessible colors, textures, and loop-shaped handles for ease of use. Ensure practicality by keeping the box compact while accommodating everyday items.

Demo Model

Details about prototype and production methods

Material List

Inside Layout

3.0 Conflicts & Solutions

Conflicts at hand

Solutions

The aim of the project is creating a functional, compact method of storing items and organizing space within a box (like a bag). Making the box as adaptable as possible to different situations in order to fit the user’s needs is our main objective.

Our prototype combines two shoe box bottoms as the outer layer, wrapped in textured construction paper for visually impaired users. Cardboard handles and a clasp are added using glue, while tape assembles the box. Inside, customizable compartments made with slitted cardboard allow users to adapt the design to their needs. The box offers versatility with various carrying options: as a tote bag with a strap or a briefcase for a classy look. This fashionable, customizable design empowers users to tailor the box to their style and functionality, making it both practical and accessible for diverse preferences.

The essential material needed: 

• Cardboard - For the main structure of the box.

• Velcro Strips - For adjustable internal dividers and to tie down loose items.

• Clasp Locks - Durable clasps for securing the box closed.

Extra materials for Added Functionality:

Fabric Straps - For creating different carry options (like a shoulder strap).

Magnetic Closures - For an alternative way to secure compartments.

Plastic Clips - For modular add-ons or attachments.

Our toughest challenges began with transforming our initial mockup model into a functional prototype for testing. We faced difficulties in ensuring the materials used were durable enough to support the design's intended versatility and functionality. Aligning the compartments internally while maintaining a snug, removable fit required precision and several adjustments.

Challenges of the prototype

• Sizing of the boxes

• Amount and size of the dividers

• Stability of the dividers

• Texture of materials for accessibility

• Measurements

• Material Availability

We addressed these challenges by carefully determining the appropriate box size, ultimately selecting two size 8 shoe boxes. This provided ample interior space while maintaining a manageable size for use as a briefcase or backpack. For the dividers, I designed four versatile options, allowing users to customize the interior based on their needs. The set includes one large 20-inch divider, two smaller 6-inch dividers, and one 3-inch divider. To enhance stability, I used double-layered cardboard and added precision-cut slits, ensuring the dividers fit securely while remaining adjustable.

Additional changes that were made:

Initially, we used size 10 shoe boxes, but after assembling them, we realized they were too large for portable use and better suited for stationary purposes. Additionally, the original single-layered dividers proved too thin to effectively separate items, lacking the stability needed to hold stored objects securely. We also faced challenges with the divider measurements, as some were not appropriately sized to fit the box’s dimensions. To address this, we improvised by repurposing the smaller dividers, ensuring a functional and adaptable design. These setbacks allowed us to refine our approach and improve the box's practicality and usability.

Through this project, I gained valuable insights into designing with accessibility as a central focus, challenging me to approach design from a new and inclusive perspective. I learned the importance of iterative thinking, progressing from an initial concept and mockup sketch to creating a tangible, hands-on prototype. Each phase of the process emphasized critical problem-solving, refinement, and user-centered design. Presenting the final prototype further honed my communication skills, showcasing the evolution of an idea into a functional solution. This experience highlighted the importance of adaptability, creativity, and empathy in the design process, leaving a lasting impact on my approach to design.

Key Takeaways