Context

For my thesis project, I was interested in exploring how those without sight perceive and interact with the world around them, and in turn how I might be able to improve their quality of life. The result was a system of cookware products that engaged the senses to inform and assist the user throughout the cooking process. These products look to encourage users to cook confidently and safely as well as transition into a truly independent lifestyle.

Research

In order to better understand and familiarize myself with what it means to live with vision loss, I began by conducting my own experiment where I would try and spend the majority of my day blindfold trying to perform my daily task as would normally do. The experience was extremely informative and led me to a number of interesting opportunities that I explored even further. One aspect that stood out to me throughout my experiment and further research was the difficulty and apprehension that I, and those actually living with vision loss, felt when trying to cook for themselves.

Process

In my exploration I was inspired by a number of innovative and experimental products that enhanced traditional experiences by engaging the senses either through taste, touch or sound. I conducted a series of experiments, where I tested various ways of introducing sensory feedback while participants performed a set of common cooking tasks while blindfolded. Out of all the experiments, participants felt most confident and comfortable when given gentle tactile feedback on their hands, informing them of their proximity in relation to various cooking utensils. I went on to refine these concepts in to prototypes that were tested even further with the community, before developing the final itteration that addressed all their concerns.

Solution

The final product is a cookware system, consisting of a pan, stirring spoon, protective guard, digital thermometer, and a companion app, that naturally integrate into most kitchens. Each utensil was carefully designed to provide additional tactile feedback (as shown above) to assist the user and provide a safer and more confident cooking experience. Some of the stand out features of the product are that users are able to easily locate the center of the pan with the magnetized stirring spoon, check their progress with the app or integrated thermometer, and strain and plate the food with the spouted pan.