Introduction: And Innovation enlisted the expertise of Thingking Studio to revamp dispensers for corner shops in South Africa's informal settlements. The goal was to create dispensers for wet and dry products, accommodating small purchases for customers with limited funds. As part of the design team, I collaborated closely with engineers to develop and test acrylic dispensers in two corner shops in Thembisa, Johannesburg.
Project Overview: The project aimed to address the unique needs of customers in informal settlements by providing access to essential products in small quantities. Working alongside the design team and electronics engineers, I contributed to the development of dispensers capable of holding and dispensing small amounts of wet ingredients like dishwashing liquid and dry products like rice.
Design and Development: I designed and 3D modeled the physical acrylic dispensers for laser cutting and assembly, focusing on functionality and ease of use.
Challenges: A few challenges had our minds working such as easy to use, build and indestructible release leaver that triggered an electronic counting device to work out the price of the quantity dispensed. Low-tech options for refilling the dispenser that wouldn't affect the electronics and maintain a seal on the dispenser.
Installation and Testing: After assembly, I assisted in the installation of the dispensers in corner shops, overseeing the testing phase to ensure optimal performance and customer satisfaction. This hands-on approach allowed us to gather valuable feedback for further refinement.
Conclusion: The project exemplified the power of innovation in addressing social and economic challenges. By redesigning dispensers for corner shops in South Africa's informal settlements, we empowered customers with access to essential products in a convenient and affordable manner. Moving forward, I am committed to continuing this work, leveraging design and technology to create positive impact in communities around the world.
