Single-Slice Toaster
Design Brief:
Design a single-slice toaster from the inside out, considering how the layout and wiring of its internal heating components can inform the form and methods of interaction.
Course:
Products Studio II: Design for Interactions, Spring 2020
Timeline:
2 weeks
In re-framing the relatively universal interaction between a user and a toaster, I wanted to explore a radial motion for inserting and releasing the bread. In doing so, my intention was to add a new element of surprise or enjoyment to an otherwise predictable activity. Once I determined this interaction and how the internal components could facilitate it, I set out to develop a minimal and approachable, yet dynamic form to best represent my intended interaction.
The final prototype below was modeled in Solidworks and rendered in Keyshot.
The quick animation and exploded view below show a simplified representation of the internal heating elements. In place of the traditional side lever, this product would utilize a metal piece on the bottom of the tray to power the electromagnet (and complete the circuit) upon making contact with the bottom of the housing.
Abridged process & form exploration
