Third Year Studio Project | 3 months
DESIGN BRIEF
Over 40% of the world's population does not have access to clean drinking water. Those that do have access to water sources in developing countries will typically travel up to 10 km in a single day to bring water to their families. Due to a lack of centralized treatment facilities, this water is frequently unsafe, which can lead to chronic disease or even death.
The Ultra Barrel is a transportable water collection, filtration and storage system designed for people who lack access to clean, safe water in developing countries. Existing water filtration products designed for developing countries are typically single-serve and expensive, requiring filters to be changed every few months. The Ultra Barrel addresses these limitations, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to both filter and transport water where access to clean, potable water is not readily available.
RESEARCH
Levels of Water Filtration
CONCEPT IDEATION
Ideation began with the initial concept of creating a durable water filtration unit that is easily transportable. Inspiration was taken from camping barrels which are typically carried long distances in harsh environments. The processes I explored include two different micro filters: a flocculation stage, and a solar water disinfection stage. It was important for me to explore these types of filtration, since no replacement components (i.e. filter cartridges) or electricity is required. Solar water disinfection (SODIS) is currently recommended by UNICEF and the Red Cross as an effective and safe way of purifying water for those living in harsh conditions.
ITERATIVE PROTOTYPING AND USER TESTING
Ergonomics and Usability
My first prototype was a quick mock-up out of cardboard in order to better understand the overall usability and ergonomics of my design. I briefly explained the filtration steps and then asked participants to follow those steps as they re-enacted the end-to-end process. During this stage participants were able to interact with different handles and grips, allowing me to note how to develop the design further and improve usability.
Filtration Process
The next stage of user testing was testing the flocculation process to examine if it’s an effective way to purify water. Flocculation is the process of adding aluminum sulphate to unclean water, then stirring it for 15 minutes. The aluminum sulphate forces the dirt and bacteria particles to clump together while the stirring creates agitation for those particles to run into one another. After about 15 minutes, the user will see the dirt clump together at the bottom of the container where it can be filtered out through another micro filter, leaving just the clear water remaining.
FINAL DESIGN
The finished model is to scale with all of the stackable components. Nylon straps were attached wrapping around the barrel to secure it in place. Parts of the barrel are painted a lighter colour to indicate where transparent parts would be.
The barrel is positioned at the centre of the user’s back to improve balance and put less strain on the body when carrying. The black knobs indicate where the stainless steel buckles would go. There is a switch that allows water to pass into the bottom tank when turned on. The backpack provides proper support around the chest and waist to help alleviate some of the weight. The supportive pad prevents the curve of the barrel from pushing against the user’s spine, giving the user a flat and comfortable cushion when walking. Lastly a spout was glued to the barrel to indicate where one would be located on the final product so the water can flow out of the filtering system.
Features and Mechanisms
Use Cycle
