Interviewing and observing users in their own kitchens helped to highlight any issues with the existing product. They struggled with moving the product as well as finding space to store it when not in use.
PROBLEMS
Tear downs helped to identify where space savings could be made by reducing bulky mechanisms. Key issues with the paddle were also identified, with a loose connection that could scratch microplastics or shards of plastic into the ice cream.
IDEATION
Concept generation aimed to consider ways to reduce scale, make movement easier and troubleshoot paddle problems. These explored different handle designs as well as alternative methods for fastening the paddle and ice cream tub. Anthropometric data was then used to to ensure any handles or touch points would fit the 95th percentile.
USER TRIALS
Scale models were created with the chosen handle concept and filled with weights. This allowed the proposed redesign to be tested with users in the same environment as the original product in order to make comparisons and refine any issues.
Higher strength magnets were added to the paddle attachment during tests. This verified that a stronger connection could still be twisted on by hand, while requiring more force to become dislodged from the shaft during operation.
FINAL CONCEPT
The simplified attachment mechanism reduces the height by 85mm, allowing the product to slot into more compact storage spaces. A cable tie allows users to quickly wrap the cable and plug at the back of the device to prevent this getting in the way.
The addition of handles helps users move the product around with ease. A simplified attachment method is simply twisted on by hand, reducing the bulky mechanism of the original product. The suggestion to use higher strength magnets also aimed to alleviate the loose paddle connection problems, without overcomplicating the user experience.