Client: Personal Project
Duration: 6 Weeks
Role: Industrial Design | Research | 3D Assets (Rhino & Grasshopper) & Prototyping
Outcomes & Impact
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Positive feedback from test families and educators
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Faster, less stressful lunch transitions
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Greater independence for children
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Reduced need for adult intervention
Inspired by how off-road tires are “aired down” to flex over rough terrain, I designed the lid with a soft, flexible seal that yields under light pressure. This makes it easier for small hands to open while still staying securely closed.
50 Psi
45 Psi
40 Psi
35 Psi
30 Psi
25 Psi
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15 Psi
"A classroom of 20-30 students, each with 3-5 items to open, it could take 5-10 minutes before a child can even begin eating."
Design Objectives
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85% of children ages 3–8 in usability testing can open and close the container unassisted after a brief introduction
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Intuitive open/close mechanism without twisting or squeezing
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No leakage in drop, shake, or tip tests during normal use
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Easy for small hands and limited dexterity
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Safe, durable, and food-grade materials
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Visually appealing to young children
Children may have difficulty due to:
Physical limitations:
Some children with developmental delays, disabilities, or injuries may find it challenging to manipulate closures on lunchboxes, requiring help from adults or older siblings.
Developmental stage:
Young children may not have the fine motor skills necessary to open certain lunchbox closures, making it an area where they need assistance.
Type of lunchbox:
Lunchboxes with tight latches, twist-top closures, or other complicated mechanisms can be difficult for some children to open without help.
Inspired by how off-road tires are “aired down” to flex over rough terrain, I designed the lid with a soft, flexible seal that yields under light pressure. This makes it easier for small hands to open while still staying securely closed.
Controlled Flex, Inspired by Tires
50 Psi
45 Psi
40 Psi
35 Psi
30 Psi
25 Psi
20 Psi
15 Psi
Physical limitations:
Some children with developmental delays, disabilities, or injuries may find it challenging to manipulate closures on lunchboxes, requiring help from adults or older siblings.
The need for assistance can vary depending on a child's age, developmental stage, and the type of lunchbox they have.
Developmental stage:
Young children may not have the fine motor skills necessary to open certain lunchbox closures, making it an area where they need assistance.
Type of lunchbox:
Lunchboxes with tight latches, twist-top closures, or other complicated mechanisms can be difficult for some children to open without help.
Design Objectives
-
Easy for small hands and limited dexterity
-
Intuitive open/close mechanism without twisting or squeezing
-
Safe, durable, and food-grade materials
-
Visually appealing to young children
-
85% of children ages 3–8 in usability testing are able to open and close the container unassisted after a brief introduction
-
No leakage in drop, shake, or tip tests during normal use
-
Positive feedback from teachers: reduced intervention required at lunchtime
Children may have difficulty due to:
Stackable
Branding
A cracked-ice-inspired Voronoi pattern adds visual interest
Flex lid for easy removal
Flexible where it matters, for easier opening and a better seal.
Sealing ridges create a leak-resistant barrier.
